The presence of Italy in Brazilian furniture production and design: Fábrica de Móveis Federico Oppido & Irmão

Abstract

Our maternal grandfather, Federico Oppido, was born in Tito, a small Basilicata town in Southern Italy, in 1877. A descendant of a family of painters and artisans, he was a draftsman, furniture manufacturer and interior decorator. He moved to São Paulo in 1888 where he studied at the Arts and Crafts Lyceum. After 1900, together with his brother Nicola, he owned Federico Oppido & C., a furniture-making and upholstery shop, which was later renamed Fábrica de Móveis "Federico Oppido & Irmão." He produced works in eclecticism, art nouveau and art déco for private customers, artists, architects, politicians and industry magnates. He can be considered one of the pioneers of modern furniture in Brazil thanks to the important works he produced in the latter style and as a result of his collaboration with swiss and brazilian artist John Graz in the manufacturing of tubular furniture that also adorned the interiors of the first residences designed by the architect Gregori Warchavchik. His factory is also credited with producing a wealth of well-known craftsmen, designers and painters. This year is the "Italy in Brazil" year, celebrating the 150th anniversary of Italy's unification. We are using this opportunity to honor Federico Oppido by publishing his biography, concentrating especially on his factory and the artists he influenced through his work. We are including the furniture he designed, family memories and information from his home town.