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.

Matching ottomans are also available here.

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.

This item is located in our warehouse.

To view items in our showroom, visit us Monday - Friday 10-6pm and Saturday 11-5pm. No appointment is needed. See more information on our Showroom location and hours here. Virtual viewings available.

Our Warehouse is located 10 minutes south of our showroom. To view this item, please schedule an appointment with us here. Virtual viewings available.

This item ships via White Glove Delivery.

White Glove Delivery

Our White Glove service includes delivery inside the home (including one flight of stairs).  Once the shippers are in your region, they will contact you beforehand to provide the delivery day and time window. Standard lead time is 3-5 weeks.

Ensure a clear path and be available to sign for the delivery.  The team cannot move existing furniture. Rural deliveries may experience longer wait times due to limited routing.  Alert us if there are additional stairs, COI requirements or other unique circumstances.

Domestic Shipping

In-stock inventory ships via UPS, USPS, or FedEx within 5-10 business days (excluding holidays). Rates are calculated based on the full order value, size and region.

International Shipping

International orders require a custom quote. Shipping costs are not included in the purchase price and will not populate at checkout. Please contact us directly for pricing.

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Local Delivery and Pick Up (Chicago Area)

Local Delivery: If your delivery address is within a 20 mile radius of Chicago, 60642, Local Delivery charges will apply at checkout. 

Local Pickup: Please contact us to schedule an appointment for your pickup, so our team can have your purchase ready. 

Returns

All Sales are Final and Non-Returnable. If you have any additional questions prior to purchase; our dedicated team is available. Contact us here 

View our full Returns policy here.

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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.

Matching ottomans are also available here.

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