Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 10

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Question 12

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Question 13

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.

Question 14

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.

Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.

Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.

Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 16

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 19

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Hermes And Mid Century

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands

Mid-20th C. Modern French Red Leather Cylindrical Umbrella Stand by Hermès Paris

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Trunks and Luggage

Mid Century Art Deco Hard Case Leather Attache Briefcase after Bally, Hermes

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Mid 20th Century French Hermes Solid Silver Gilt Smoker's Requisites c.1940

Mid-20th Century French Organic Modern Decorative Bowls

Mid-20 C. Modern Glazed Ceramic Organic Design Bowl by French Brand Hermès Paris

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Mid Century Modern Cabinet by Guido Faleschini for Hermes, Italy, 1970

Mid-20th Century French Paperweights

Mid 20th Century Hermes Horse Head Magnifying Glass, France, Circa 1960

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Mid-20th Century Wooden Box with Silver Knot Lid by the French Firm Hermès Paris

Mid-20th Century French More Mirrors

Mid 20th Century Hermes Silver Gilt Hand Mirror Paris Circa 1950

Mid-20th Century Briefcases and Attachés

Hermes Omnibus Bag in Navy Leather Trim and Toile Canvas

15th Century and Earlier Coats

Hermes Cotton Trench Coat

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Shelves and Wall Cabinets

Hermes Paris Scarf Hanger

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

French Mid-Century Modern Hand-Stitched Leather Desk Lamp Attributed to Hermes

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes

1950s Hermès Smoking Set

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands

Coat rack by Hermès

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Pillows and Throws

Vintage Hermes Equestrian Silk Scarf and Irish Linen Cushion Pillow

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Pillows and Throws

Very Rare Vintage Hermes French Silk Scarf and Irish Linen Cushion Pillow Blue

Mid-20th Century Picture Frames

Framed Hermes Scarf "Bull and Mouth Regent''s Circus Piccadilly"

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Carriage Clocks and Travel Clocks

Hermès Stirup Clip Travel Alarm Clock

Vintage 1960s French Modernist Cufflinks

Superb Pair Hermes Paris Mid Century Stirrup Cufflinks 18ct Gold, Circa 1965

Mid-20th Century Luggage and Travel Bags

Hermes Burgundy Leather Long Travel Bag

20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Pillows and Throws

French Vintage Hermes Silk Scarf and Irish Linen Cushion Pillow Rare Purple Blue

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Hermes Silver Cube Lighter, 1960s France

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Games

Vintage Mid-Century 1960's Designer Style Backgammon Set

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Bottles

Hermes Paris 1950 Vintage Large Eau D' Hermes Bottle In Crystal With Round Lid

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Barware

Hermès, Paris - Vintage "Cordage" Rope Corkscrew c.1960

Mid-20th Century Duffel Bags and Carry-On Bags

Hermes Burgundy Leather Short Travel Bag

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands

1960s Bauhaus Umbrella Stand Style of Hermès Paris

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Italian Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Gilt Iron Console by Banci for Hermès

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Magazine Racks and Stands

French Mid-Century Modern Faux Leather Magazine Stand Attributed to Hermès

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Pair of Hermes Orange Faux Bamboo Etagere Shelves, Mid-Century Modern

Mid-20th Century French Barware

1950's Hermès set of Decanters in a leather basket holder

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Hermes Paris, Rare French Silver Smoking Set, c 1930

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Sterling Silver "Bamboo" Lighter by Hermès, France, c. 1950s

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Porcelain Change Tray with a Horse in the Style of Hermès

Mid-20th Century French Top Handle Bags

Vintage Hermes Black Leather Top Handle Handbag W/Lock & Key

21st Century and Contemporary French Top Handle Bags

Hermes Birkin 25cm Etain Gold Hardware Grey Bag

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Hermes Solid Silver Cigarette Box & Matchbox With Gold Horse Detail c.1960

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Magnificent Hermes Orange Widdicomb Credenza Asian Brass Mid-Century Modern

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Hermes, Paris, Silver Plated Novelty Dish / Vide Poche, C.1960

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Barware