Lounge Chair and Ottoman Model "Jangada"
Manufactured by Italma Wood Art
Brazil, 1960s
Brazilian rosewood, Leather, Rope
Measurements
Lounge Chair
99 × 114 × 84h cm
39 × 45 × 33h in
Seat height
43 cm / 16,93 in
Ottoman
34,5 × 66,5 × 44h cm
13,59 × 26,18 × 17,32h in
Provenance
Private Collection, Brazil
Details
Manufacturer’s label
About
The Jangada lounge chair and ottoman stand among the most iconic expressions of Brazilian modern design of the 1960s. Conceived by Jean Gillon and produced by Italma Wood Art, the model exemplifies a synthesis of structural clarity, artisanal craftsmanship, and sensorial comfort.
Constructed in solid Brazilian rosewood, the frame reveals the richness and depth of the material, emphasizing both durability and visual warmth. The defining element of the design is the suspended hand-knotted rope sling, which forms both seat and backrest. This net-like structure adapts fluidly to the body, creating a seating experience that is at once ergonomic and relaxed.
The original leather cushions introduce an additional layer of comfort and tactility, their natural patina enhancing the piece’s authenticity and character. The accompanying ottoman extends the composition, reinforcing the chair’s emphasis on repose and informality.
The Jangada reflects Gillon’s broader approach to furniture as an interplay between architecture and craft. By combining rigid wooden geometry with flexible, woven elements, the design achieves a balance between solidity and lightness. Today, it remains one of the most celebrated and collectible works of Brazilian mid-century design, embodying both technical ingenuity and a deeply human-centered vision of comfort.