Osvaldo Borsani (1911-1985) was an Italian furniture and decorative arts designer and architect. He was born on October 17, 1911, in Varedo, a town in the Lombardy region of Italy. Borsani is best known for his innovative and functional furniture designs, which were characterized by their sleek lines, attention to detail, and use of high-quality materials.

Borsani's interest in design and architecture was sparked at a young age, as he grew up in a family of artisans. His father, Gaetano Borsani, was a skilled cabinetmaker, and his mother, Rosa Ramella, was a painter. This creative environment undoubtedly influenced his decision to pursue a career in the field of design.

In 1933, Borsani co-founded the furniture manufacturing company Arredamento Borsani Varedo (ABV) with his twin brother, Fulgenzio Borsani. The company quickly gained recognition for its innovative designs and craftsmanship. Borsani's early works were characterized by their Art Deco influences, featuring geometric shapes and luxurious materials.

Throughout his career, Borsani experimented with different styles and materials, adapting to the changing design trends of the time. In the 1950s, he embraced the principles of modernism and began incorporating new materials such as steel, glass, and plastic into his designs. His furniture pieces often featured clean lines, modular elements, and a focus on functionality.

One of Borsani's most iconic designs is the P40 lounge chair, which he created in 1955. This innovative piece of furniture featured a reclining mechanism that allowed the user to adjust the chair's position to their desired level of comfort. The P40 chair became a symbol of Borsani's design philosophy, combining aesthetics with practicality.

In addition to his work in furniture design, Borsani also collaborated with renowned architects on various architectural projects. He worked closely with his brother, Fulgenzio Borsani, on the design of several residential and commercial buildings in Italy. Their architectural projects showcased their shared vision of integrating design and functionality.

Borsani's contributions to the field of design were widely recognized and celebrated during his lifetime. He received numerous awards and accolades, including the prestigious Compasso d'Oro, Italy's highest design award, in 1955 and 1979.

Osvaldo Borsani passed away on July 15,