Ignazio Gardella P10 armchairs Azucena Italy 1963

These 10 rare model P10 fully upholstered armchairs are an elegant and decorative design by Ignazio Gardella, one of the masters of 20th-century Italian design. Upholstered in original chocolate brown leatherette—a synthetic vinyl leather typical of the era—these armchairs reflect the period’s aesthetic while offering a timeless appeal. The design and proportions make these chairs exceptionally comfortable, whether used around a table as dining or office chairs. The seat can be slightly adjusted, allowing the chairs to function more like lounge chairs, offering a more relaxed seating experience akin to a car seat. The feet are finished with solid brass caps, which protects the leather and also the floor they are on. It is a practical but also aesthetical solution and a part of the chairs design.

Interestingly, while these chairs have always been together as a set of 10, one features a slightly taller backrest, likely intended as the “boss’s chair.” This subtle difference adds a unique character to the set. As is often the case with Gardella’s creations, these chairs were produced by Azucena, the company Gardella co-founded with Luigi Caccia Dominioni in 1947. Originally designed in 1963 for an event in Rome, the chairs remain in good original condition, with age-related wear mainly visible on the feet. This set is a testament to Gardella’s ability to combine functionality, comfort, and refined design, making them a rare and valuable addition to any collection.

Kindly note that the chairs are priced and sold in a set of 10.

Ignazio Gardella (1905–1999) was a prominent Italian architect and designer, celebrated for his influential role in 20th-century modernism. With a career spanning over six decades, Gardella was known for his ability to blend rationalist principles with a refined, minimalist aesthetic. He was a founding member of the influential design company Azucena, alongside Luigi Caccia Dominioni, where he created iconic furniture pieces that are still revered today. Gardella’s work, whether in architecture or design, is marked by its elegant proportions, innovative use of materials, and timeless sophistication, cementing his legacy as a key figure in Italian modern design.

Literature; Repertorio Del Design Italiano 195o~2000 Volume 1. Giuliana Gramigna, page 101.