Following on the success of the D70 divan at the 10th Triennale Exhibition of 1954, Borsani began work on the idea of a mechanical joint that could allow an armchair the freedom of movement necessary to assume different positions, especially forrelaxation.

The P40 was the ideological manifesto of design as seen by Borsani.

Still today it is the most instantly recognizable and best appreciated item in the manufacturer’s catalogue, thanks to its suitability for use in the home, offices and the hospitality sector.

With the P40, Borsani strove to find a technical way to extend the potential of the classic chaises longues designed by some of the Modernist Movement’s most famous architects. The P40 overcame the static nature of the fixed and bulky “comfortable chair” and offered an alternative of smaller dimensions, capable of opening in a fan-like manner through a series of settings from any position between full reclined and completely closed.

Borsani’s P40 is a relaxing chair made from mobile elements. A metal pedestal supports the seat and backrest which are pivoted to permit all possible angles. A foldaway element under the seat can pivot outwards to provide extended leg support and incorporates a pull-out metal foot-rest.

The arms are in steel and rubber. The chair can be upholstered in fabric or leather. All structural parts are in metal and are painted in either dark grey or satin nickel.