Jangada Chair and Ottoman (Structure)
Manufactured by Italma Wood Art
Brazil, 1969
Rosewood, Rope

Measurements
Lounge Chair
90 × 100 × 82h cm
35,4 × 39,4 × 32,3h in

Ottoman
66,5 × 44 × 34,5h cm
26,2 × 17,3 × 13,6h in

Details
Manufacturer’s Label

Provenance
Private Collection, Brazil

About
This 1969 version of the iconic Jangada chair by Jean Gillon presents the design in its most essential and structural form, composed solely of wood and hand-knotted rope. Stripped of its leather cushions, the piece emphasizes the underlying construction and the clarity of Gillon’s vision, where comfort is achieved through suspension and tension rather than padding.
The solid wood frame defines a strong architectural presence, while the woven rope sling forms both seat and backrest in a continuous, flexible surface. This net-like structure adapts to the body, creating a dynamic seating experience that is at once supportive and lightweight. The absence of upholstery reveals the sculptural quality of the piece, highlighting the interplay between line, volume, and negative space.
Rooted in Brazilian modernism, the Jangada design draws inspiration from traditional fishing hammocks and coastal craft techniques. Gillon translated these vernacular references into a refined modern object, balancing artisanal methods with a sophisticated formal language. This version, requiring reupholstery or textile customization, also reflects the adaptability inherent in the design, allowing it to evolve while maintaining its original identity.
As both a functional object and a study in structure, this rope-only Jangada stands as a compelling example of mid-century design’s ability to merge tradition, innovation, and material honesty.