Vintage P40 Lounge Chair by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno, First Series

Designed in 1956 by Italian architect Osvaldo Borsani, the P40 lounge chair – where “P” stands for “Poltrona”, Italian for armchair – is one of the most iconic pieces of Italian Mid-Century Modern design.

With a revolutionary approach, Borsani created a finely engineered piece of seating. From the tubular legs and elastic rubber armrests to the reclining backrest, seat and footrest, the chair blends the comfort of traditional lounge chairs to the innovation of industrial materials and production techniques.

Two brass levers, one located below the seat, one behind the armrest, allow to tilt the two parts forwards or backwards, upwards or downwards, leading to many different configurations. A click-to-release mechanism secures the hidden footrest.

The chair, a rare first-series of the model, is preserved in remarkable conditions: the original labels are crisp and clearly visible on the legs; the upholstery has been redone recently with a special lightweight velvet in a dark grey tone.