Giancarlo Piretti (Bologna, 1940) is an influential Italian designer and educator, renowned for his iconic creations such as the Plia folding chair (1967) and the ergonomic seating systems Vertebra (1975) and Dorsal (1981), developed in collaboration with Emilio Ambasz. A graduate of the Academy of Fine Arts in Bologna, he has taught Interior Design and worked with companies including Anonima Castelli, designing furniture, and Okamura. His work, which combines aesthetics, comfort, and functionality, is featured in museums such as MoMA in New York and has received numerous awards, including two Compasso d’Oro prizes.