Joaquim Tenreiro was a pioneer of modernist Brazilian furniture, earning him the title of the “father” of modern furniture in Brazil.

Tenreiro was born in Portugal into a family of woodworkers and carpenters. In the late 1920s, he emigrated to Rio de Janeiro and began working for the firm Laubisch Hirth. In the early 1940s, Tenreiro established his own furniture studio, where his work started to gain wider recognition.

His design philosophy centered around the concept of “lightness,” focusing on elegance, grace, and the use of space.

This vision strongly resonated with architects who embraced modernism, and his most notable client was Oscar Niemeyer, for whom he designed furniture for various projects.

Joaquim Tenreiro

Rodeo Desk and Rodeo Chair

Desk and Its Side Table

Rare modular sideboard in solid rosewood and plywood with rosewood lamination. Contains three vertically opening matte doors. Interior with light fixture, shelves, and drawers.

Sideboard

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Sideboard

Biography Joaquim Tenreiro+

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