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Vintage Italian ‘Socrates’ Olive Leather Sofa by Poltrona Frau

$8,200.00

The ‘Socrates’ sofa, designed by Poltrona Frau in the 1980s, is defined by its low-slung, leather-clad silhouette. Upholstered in supple, olive-toned leather, its form is balanced by generously overstuffed, down-filled cushions that invite repose and ease.

A testament to Poltrona Frau’s mastery in leatherwork, the piece features subtly flared arms and precise topstitching, lending structural poise to its otherwise relaxed profile. Time has gently softened the leather, imbuing it with a rich patina that speaks to decades of leisure.

Poltrona Frau, founded in 1912 by Renzo Frau in Turin, is a cornerstone of Italian design, renowned for its masterful leather craftsmanship. Gaining early acclaim with its reinterpretation of the English Chesterfield, the brand introduced iconic pieces like the 904 armchair (later named "Vanity Fair") that defined Italian modernism. With its relocation to Tolentino in the 1960s, Poltrona Frau deepened its artisanal roots, developing a meticulous 21-step leather tanning process and maintaining a tradition of handcrafting 95% of its products.

Expanding in the 1980s into luxury automotive and contract interiors, Poltrona Frau partnered with names like Ferrari and the European Parliament. In 2014, it was acquired by American company Haworth, further extending its global reach while preserving its Italian identity. Today, the brand continues to innovate through collaborations with contemporary designers and commemorates its legacy through the Poltrona Frau Museum, designed by Michele De Lucchi.

DIMENSIONS: 78.5"W x 36"D x 28.5"H

ADDITIONAL DIMENSIONS: 22"AH

SEAT HEIGHT: 17.5"

ORIGIN: Italy

PERIOD: 1980s

MATERIALS: Leather

CONDITION: In great vintage condition, with minor scuffs and light wear primarily around the edges of the cushions and base, as shown in the photos. Maker's mark present along the base beneath the cushions.

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Vintage Italian ‘Socrates’ Olive Leather Sofa by Poltrona Frau

The ‘Socrates’ sofa, designed by Poltrona Frau in the 1980s, is defined by its low-slung, leather-clad silhouette. Upholstered in supple, olive-toned leather, its form is balanced by generously overstuffed, down-filled cushions that invite repose and ease.

A testament to Poltrona Frau’s mastery in leatherwork, the piece features subtly flared arms and precise topstitching, lending structural poise to its otherwise relaxed profile. Time has gently softened the leather, imbuing it with a rich patina that speaks to decades of leisure.

Poltrona Frau, founded in 1912 by Renzo Frau in Turin, is a cornerstone of Italian design, renowned for its masterful leather craftsmanship. Gaining early acclaim with its reinterpretation of the English Chesterfield, the brand introduced iconic pieces like the 904 armchair (later named "Vanity Fair") that defined Italian modernism. With its relocation to Tolentino in the 1960s, Poltrona Frau deepened its artisanal roots, developing a meticulous 21-step leather tanning process and maintaining a tradition of handcrafting 95% of its products.

Expanding in the 1980s into luxury automotive and contract interiors, Poltrona Frau partnered with names like Ferrari and the European Parliament. In 2014, it was acquired by American company Haworth, further extending its global reach while preserving its Italian identity. Today, the brand continues to innovate through collaborations with contemporary designers and commemorates its legacy through the Poltrona Frau Museum, designed by Michele De Lucchi.

Dimensions
Width: 78.5"
Depth: 36"
Height: 28.5"
Additional Dimensions: 22"AH
Seat Height: 17.5"
Origin: Italy
Period: 1980s
Materials: Leather
Condition
In great vintage condition, with minor scuffs and light wear primarily around the edges of the cushions and base, as shown in the photos. Maker's mark present along the base beneath the cushions.

685 N. Milwaukee Avenue, Chicago, IL 60642 | southlooploft.com | (312) 291-8479