Brazilian Modern Desk in Hardwood by Joaquim Tenreiro for Bloch, 1966, Brazil

This desk is made in solid wood and wood veneer with two drawers resting on two straight legs in solid wood. This desk was created specifically for Bloch Editors in Brazil. This office has become an iconic piece in the work of Joaquim Tenreiro and in the Brazilian modernist style thanks to its refined, elegant and sober style, but also to the high level of quality of realization of which the designer was capable (attached vintage photos)

The quality of the Brazilian Rosewood is impeccable, showcasing vibrant veins throughout the piece, making the piece look almost alive. Extensive logging has virtually eliminated Rosewood from the Brazilian forests, so that today it is not supposed to be logged. The only material that can be sold legally is old stock. By owning a vintage piece made of old Jacaranda, you’re not only getting a beautiful collectible but also helping this species to recuperate.

The wood has been refinished and besides a few marks of time, the piece is in excellent condition. The cane is original except for a few panels that were replaced. This gorgeous desk would look great in any mid century modern, modern, contemporary environment and the iconic design will make this piece an absolute must in everyone’s collection.

Joaquim Tenreiro (1906–1992) was among the leading furniture designers and visual artists in mid-20th century Brazil. Tenreiro was born in Melo, Gouveia Municipality, Portugal into a family of woodworkers and carpenters. In the late 1920s, he emigrated to Rio de Janeiro and began working for the firm of Laubisch & Hirth.

In the early 1940s, Tenreiro was among the first designers in the Brazilian furniture industry to adopt a European modernist vernacular. His initial efforts, including the 1942 “Poltrona Leve,” met with considerable success, and in 1943 he established his own firm with factories in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. However, it was not until the 1950s that he began to be recognized as a master furniture designer in Brazil. His design philosophy found a great response with architects who supported modernism.

Size: H29.5, W57.1, D27.6 (in) H75, W145, D70 (cm).