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

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 16

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 17

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 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.

Mid Century City

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Robert Freiman"Untitled" American 20th Century Abstract Oil Painting from 1950's , 1959

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Set of Paden City Ruby Red Glass Cocktail Shaker and Glasses

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

City View - Watercolor by French Master - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Nicolas CzinoberCity - Mixed Media by N. Czinober - mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Photography

Future of Two American Cities - Vintage Photograph - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

City of future - Original Etching and Drypoint - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

City of Future - Original Etching and Drypoint - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

1940s American Modern Figurative Prints

Bernard Brussel-SmithCity Scene II — mid-century modern, 1949

1940s American Modern Figurative Prints

Bernard Brussel-SmithCity Scene I — mid-century modern, 1949

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Quilts and Blankets

Mid-Century New York City Souvenir Table Cloth

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Large Curtis Jere Mid-Century Modern Mixed Metal Copenhagen City Wall Sculpture

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mino MaccariThe Seduce of City - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Futurist Figurative Prints

City of the Future - Original Etching and Drypoint - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mino MaccariThe Angels Captured City - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Simon GoldbergDark City - Original Charcoal Drawing by S. Goldberg - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Settees

Mid Century Style Wing Settee by Lost City Arts

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Arab City Square - Original China Ink and Watercolor - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Giovanni MalagodiCity Landscape - Oil on Canvas by Giovanni Malagodi - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

1950s Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtCity View - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

20th Century Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Richard MurrayRichard Murray - Framed Mid 20th Century Watercolour, City Outskirts, 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

P.G Tiele"Parisian City Street Scene" Town & Figures Mid-20th Century Oil Painting Canvas, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Frank DuffieldBritish Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting London City Sketch, c.1950's

1950s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

John B MatthewMid Century California Gold Rush Landscape, Amador City , Circa 1950s

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Photography

New Tunnel under East River Serves New York City Motorists - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Sketches of a City - Original Drawing by Unknown - Mid 20th Century, Early 20th Century

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-Century Modern Acrylic Painting of City Skyline, Signed March

1970s Portrait Paintings

G.CraneMid Century Modern Female City Girl Portrait 1970, 1970

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Framed French School Mid 20th Century Watercolour - Old City Harbour, Unknown

1930s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

R.DebrayMid 20th century Impressionist, French City scene, Paris France, circa 1935

1950s Modern Landscape Paintings

Vintage Mid-Century Framed Cityscape Oil Painting - City Views, 1950s

1950s American Modern Figurative Paintings

Charles Elmer Harris'6th City Wire Works' — Mid-Century African-American Artist, c. 1950s

1950s Modern Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Roger A. Flynn'Moonlit Garden, Cairo', Mid-century, Egyptian City, American University , 1956

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Paintings

French SchoolVery Thickly Painted French Mid Century Oil Painting Busy European City Figures

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-Century Red "Boat House"" Paris City / Town Abstract Oil Painting be DeSemdt

1960s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Eleanor PerryKansas City Cityscape, Mid Century Modern Primary Colors Urban Landscape, 1969

1960s Abstract Expressionist Landscape Paintings

1961 Vintage Mid-Century Expressionist City Landscape Oil Painting - Brittany, 1961

1950s Modern Figurative Paintings

Vintage Mid-Century Swedish Framed Cityscape Oil Painting - City Dream

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid Century Flush Mount Chandelier with City Skyline Motif by Moe Light

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Pedestals

Signed Paul Evans City Scape Polished Chrome Double Pedestal Mid Century Modern

1940s Academic Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Robert Freiman
"Untitled" American 20th Century Abstract Oil Painting from 1950's , 1959

Nicolas Czinober
City - Mixed Media by N. Czinober - mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Bernard Brussel-Smith
City Scene II — mid-century modern, 1949

Bernard Brussel-Smith
City Scene I — mid-century modern, 1949

Mino Maccari
The Seduce of City - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mino Maccari
The Angels Captured City - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Simon Goldberg
Dark City - Original Charcoal Drawing by S. Goldberg - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Giovanni Malagodi
City Landscape - Oil on Canvas by Giovanni Malagodi - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Helen Vogt
City View - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Richard Murray
Richard Murray - Framed Mid 20th Century Watercolour, City Outskirts, 20th Century

P.G Tiele
"Parisian City Street Scene" Town & Figures Mid-20th Century Oil Painting Canvas, Mid-20th Century

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting London City Sketch, c.1950's

John B Matthew
Mid Century California Gold Rush Landscape, Amador City , Circa 1950s

G.Crane
Mid Century Modern Female City Girl Portrait 1970, 1970

R.Debray
Mid 20th century Impressionist, French City scene, Paris France, circa 1935

Charles Elmer Harris
'6th City Wire Works' — Mid-Century African-American Artist, c. 1950s

Roger A. Flynn
'Moonlit Garden, Cairo', Mid-century, Egyptian City, American University , 1956

French School
Very Thickly Painted French Mid Century Oil Painting Busy European City Figures

Eleanor Perry
Kansas City Cityscape, Mid Century Modern Primary Colors Urban Landscape, 1969

Irene Bashkiroff-Valira
Miss Twisty: Back to the City - Mid-Century Female Illustrator, 1948

Amedee Boucher
Large Mid 20th Century French Signed Post-Impressionist Oil - Busy City Street

Louis Lozowick
Winter Fun — Mid-century Modernism, Central Park, New York City, 1940

Lyonel Feininger
'Manhattan 1, stone 2' — New York City, Mid-Century Modernism, 1951

Leon Dolice
"Rainy Day, New York City" Modernist Urban Cityscape Mid-Century Street Scene, circa 1940

S. Craig
City Skyline - Mid Century Modern Urban Landscape in Oil on Burlap, 1965

Joy Rannard
Mid Century English Impressionist Oil Busy City River Scene Boats and Buildings, c. 1960's

Nelusco Sarti
After the Rain, Rome (Mid-Century Impressionist Europe City Painting), c. 1960

Henri Miloch
Ecole de Paris Mid 20th Century City Architectural Winter Scene , 1940's

Henri Miloch
Ecole de Paris Mid 20th Century, A City Street Scene, 1940's

R.Debray
French Mid century Impressionist, City view with Cathedral in Paris, France, circa 1935

Marjorie Schiele (1913-2008)
Mid 20th Century Architectural City Back Streets Modernist Cubist Oil Painting

Carol Sideman
"City Harbor" Mid Century Modern Oakland Seascape in Oil on Linen, 1960s

Suzanne Boland van de Weghe
Townscape - Mid 20th Century Belgian French Naif City Landscape Oil Painting , 1978