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

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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.

Question 20

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Helen

1950s American Single-Breasted Jackets

1950s Helen Rose Grey Wool Asymmetrical Buttons Vintage 50s Gray Jacket Coat

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtBuddah - Painting by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtShadowy Figure - Original Pastel by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Helen VogtPortrait - Original Woodcut Print by Helen Vogt - 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

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtThe Scream - Original Watercolor and Tempera by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

1950s Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtBirds in Morocco - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Lovely Hobey Helen Tall Walnut Dresser Chest, Mid-Century Modern

1950s Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Helen VogtPortrait of Moroccan Woman - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Stunning Hobey Helen Baker Floating Asian Style Credenza Hutch Mid-Century

1960s Folk Art Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

Helen KalvakHelen Kalvak Inuit Women mid century modern art outsider folk art minimalist, 1968

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Helen Hobey for Baker Mid Century Walnut Nightstands - Pair

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Helen Hobey for Baker Mid Century Walnut Highboy Dresser

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Mid Century Modern King Size Headboard by Helen and Hobey Baker, c1960s

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Serigraph by Helen Frankenthaler Titled "Aerie", 2009

Mid-20th Century American Paintings

Helen Seibert Painting, circa 1945

Mid-20th Century American Paintings

"My Family" a Watercolor by Helen A. Haselton

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Stunning Hobey Helen Baker Asian Modern Walnut Credenza Midcentury

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Fabric Collage Wall Tapestry Designed and Hand Made by Helen Webber

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Helen SkeltonMid-Century Pescadero Coast Seascape , Circa 1960

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Art Deco Oriental Style Medium Floor Rug by Helen Fette

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Art Deco Oriental Style Small Floor Rug by Helen Fette

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Handsome King Size Hobey Helen Baker Asian Style Walnut Head Board, Midcentury

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Art Deco Oriental Style Small Floor Rug by Helen Fette 2

1980s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Prints

Helen FrankenthalerOffset lithograph poster (Signed by both Helen Frankenthaler and Aaron Copland), 1982

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Helen Layfield BradleySunshine & Shadows. Lake District.Helen Layfield Bradley.Original Oil Impasto. , 1965

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Helen Hobey Baker Midcentury Walnut Nightstands, Pair

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Helen Hobey Baker Midcentury Walnut Brutalist Armoire

Mid-20th Century American Modern Still-life Paintings

Helen SteinFloral Still Life, by mid-century modern master artist

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Helen Hobey for Baker Midcentury Walnut Highboy Dresser

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern More Furniture and Collectibles

"The Blue Knights, " Brilliant, Mid-Century Enamel Panel by Hansen

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid 20th Century Modern Abstract Expressionist Painting on canvas by Donato 1969

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Helen Hobey Baker Midcentury Walnut and Burlwood Lowboy Dresser

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Helen Enoch GleiforstMid Century Carmel Cottage with Flowers Landscape, 1950

21st Century and Contemporary Pakistani Modern Central Asian Rugs

New Contemporary Landscape Pictorial Rug Inspired by Helen Frankenthaler

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Helen Gapen OehlerSpring Bouquet, Mid Century Floral Still-Life

1950s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Helen Enoch GleiforstMid Century Autumn Trees Landscape , 1955

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Helen & Hobey Baker Highboy Chest, Walnut and Brass, 1950's

1950s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Helen Enoch GleiforstMid Century Autumn Trees Landscape, 1960

1940s American Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Helen Vogt
Buddah - Painting by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Helen Vogt
Shadowy Figure - Original Pastel by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Helen Vogt
Portrait - Original Woodcut Print by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

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

Helen Vogt
The Scream - Original Watercolor and Tempera by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Helen Vogt
Birds in Morocco - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Helen Vogt
Portrait of Moroccan Woman - Original Drawing by Helen Vogt - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Helen Kalvak
Helen Kalvak Inuit Women mid century modern art outsider folk art minimalist, 1968

Helen Skelton
Mid-Century Pescadero Coast Seascape , Circa 1960

Helen Frankenthaler
Offset lithograph poster (Signed by both Helen Frankenthaler and Aaron Copland), 1982

Helen Layfield Bradley
Sunshine & Shadows. Lake District.Helen Layfield Bradley.Original Oil Impasto. , 1965

Helen Stein
Floral Still Life, by mid-century modern master artist

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Carmel Cottage with Flowers Landscape, 1950

Helen Gapen Oehler
Spring Bouquet, Mid Century Floral Still-Life

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Autumn Trees Landscape , 1955

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Autumn Trees Landscape, 1960

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Burgundy Calla Lilies, 1940

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Yosemite Mountain Peak Landscape, 1950s

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Tropical Bonsai Still Life, 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Floral Centerpiece Still Life, 1954

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Far Off Mountains Landscape, 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Lilies and Teapot Still Life, c.1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Spring Garden Still-Life Peonies and Garden Gloves, c.1950s

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century High Sierra Mountain Lake Landscape , c.1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Le Coq Gaulois, French Roosters, 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Roses & Sweet Peas Still Life

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Iris and Daffodils Still Life , Circa 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Portrait of a Girl in Bonnet, 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Floral Bouquet and Splendor Still Life, c.1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Turquoise Pitcher and Fruit Basket Still Life , Circa 1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Copper Teapot, Vase and Fruit Still Life, c.1950s

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Floral Still Life - Petunias in a Glass , c.1950

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Fuji Apples Still Life with Plaid Cloth