The 'D70' variable tilt sofa-bed, produced by Tecno, Milan 1954.

Black tubular frame with foam rubber padding and brass knobs, for changing the back and seat height of the sofa. Upholstered in the original blue (moth-resistant) wool material. Both back and seat can be tilted in such a way, that the sofa is completely flat as a bed. Includes all the original Tecno stickers and badges.

Literature:

-Gramigna, G. Repertorio del Design Italiano 1950-2000. Vol. 1, p. 34, illustrated.

-TECNO, G. Bosoni, pp 52-55, fully illustrated.

The distinctive “wing” structure, with swiveling seat and back, allows numerous reclining positions and a full conversion into a bed. The D70 uses a slim metal frame with elastic webbing and upholstered cushions that can easily be exchanged due to the zipper-closure sofa covers. The result was a Gold Medal, awarded at the 1954 Triennale Exhibition in Milan.

Osvaldo Borsani (Varado 1911 – Milan 19985) Italian designer and architect. Best known for his research-based approach to making furniture, throughout his career Borsani merged technological and material improvements with inventive Modernist stylings. In 1953, Osvaldo and his brother, Fulgencio, founded the firm  TECNO in Milan. There, he created one of his hallmark designs, the P40 lounge chair, featuring rubber arms and the ability to assume 486 distinct postures. Some early designs by TECNO can now be found in the permanent collection of The Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.