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Mid Century Modular

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Italian midcentury modular set of four boxes 1970s
Located in bari, IT
Amazing coffee table Italian midcentury modular set of four box 1970s in brown lacquered walnut
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Aluminum

Midcentury Modular Seating Group by Georges van Rijck for Beaufort, 1960s
By Beaufort, Georges Vanrijk
Located in Brussels , BE
Midcentury Modular Seating Group by Georges Van Rijck for Beaufort, 1960s.
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Wood

Arthur Umanoff for Madison Furniture Mid Century Modular Seated Bench
By Madison Furniture, Arthur Umanoff
Located in Countryside, IL
Arthur Umanoff for Madison Furniture mid century modular seated bench Bench measures: 87.5 wide x
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Chrome

Arthur Umanoff for Madison Furniture Mid Century Modular 2 Seater Bench
By Madison Furniture, Arthur Umanoff
Located in Countryside, IL
Arthur Umanoff for Madison Furniture mid century modular 2 seater bench Bench measures: 65 wide x
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Modular Geometric Corner Sofa By Englender Vintage Retro MCM
Located in Cambridge, GB
New Stock ✅ Mid Century Modular Geometric Corner Sofa by Englender Vintage Retro MCM Highly
Category

Vintage 1970s British Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Italian Midcentury Modular Sofa Novemila by Tito Agnoli for Arflex, 1969
By Arflex, Tito Agnoli
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian midcentury modular sofa Novemila by Tito Agnoli for Arflex, 1969 Modular sofa mod. Novemila
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mid Century Modular Etagere in Sycamore Wood
Located in Chicago, IL
A stunning Mid Century etagere constructed with varnished sycamore wood. This modular unit features
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Sycamore

Mid Century Modular Etagere in Sycamore Wood
Mid Century Modular Etagere in Sycamore Wood
H 80.75 in W 118 in D 13.75 in
Extra Long Mid Century Modular 6-Seat Sofa
By Lewittes Furniture Enterprises
Located in New York, NY
Unusual sectional, or modular, sofa having 6 distinct chair sections, which can be hooked together
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Oak

Guillerme et Chambron Oak Midcentury Modular Sofa
By Guillerme et Chambron
Located in London, GB
A set of three modular lounge chairs that can form as sofa. By Guillerme et Chambron
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Oak

Restored Mid-Century Modular Wall Unit from Jitona, 1973
By Jitona
Located in Żory, PL
This mahogany modular wall unit was manufactured by Jitona in the Czech Republic in 1973. It
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Mid-Century Modular Lounge Chairs for Arflex, Italy, 1970s
By Tito Agnoli
Located in Antwerp, BE
Arflex modular lounge chairs, attributed to the visionary Tito Agnoli in the iconic era of
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Wool, Cotton, Wood

Midcentury Modular Wine Rack or Stand, Italy, 1970s
By Kartell
Located in Praha, CZ
- rare type - very practical - marked by label - for 36 bottles - modular
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Barware

Materials

Plastic

Mario Bellini 'Camaleonda' Mid-Century Modular Sofa B&B Italia
By Mario Bellini
Located in London, GB
A five piece modular sofa by Mario Bellini for B&B Italia. Italy, c1970s, not a contemporary
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Living Room Sets

Materials

Fabric

Mid-Century Modular Sofa by Friedrich Hill for Walter Knoll
By Brayton International, Walter Knoll
Located in Raleigh, NC
Original leather six piece modular sofa. This Plus 144 model sofa was designed by Friedrich Hill
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Fabric, Foam

Mid-Century Modular Armchairs, Red Leatherette Living Room Set, Italy 1980s
Located in Roma, IT
condition, it shows minimal signs of age and use. A stunning set perfect to brighten a mid-century studio
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Living Room Sets

Materials

Faux Leather

Mid-Century Modular Bookcase by Edmondo Palutari for Dassi, Italy, 1950s
By Edmondo Palutari, Dassi
Located in Catania, CT
Good vintage condition with trace of age and use and original patina on the wood and brass details. Designed by Edmondo Palutari and produced in Italy during the 60s by Dassi Mobili ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Kristian Vedel MODUS Midcentury Modular Lounge Suite, Pouf & Table, Denmark
By Soren Willadsen Mobelfabrik, Kristian Vedel, Søren Willadsen
Located in Biebergemund, Hessen
Extraordinary Kriatian Vedel MODUS modular sofa set from 1960s. The set is made of high quality
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Leather, Rosewood

Tomado Midcentury Modular Wall Unit, Shelving System with Rare Bookstands
By Tomado
Located in Schagen, NL
This modular industrial piece, features 3 shelves, two gliding stands for books and one stand to
Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Italian Modern Midcentury Modular Wall Unit in Rosewood, Wool and Brass
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Italy Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Rosewood, wool, brass Measurements: 138 wide x 18 deep x 79.5 tall Condition: In excellent origina...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modular Sideboard in Teak by Rex Raab for Wilhelm Renz, Germany, 60s
By Rex Raab, Wilhelm Renz
Located in Lucija, SI
This modularc mid century modern sideboard was designed by Rex Raab and produced in the 1950s by
Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Vintage Modular Sectional Sofa Suite, 1970
By Rolf Benz, COR
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
Mid-century modular sofa in a brown 1970s fabric. Consist of five sections. Good vintage
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Canapes

Materials

Velvet

Mid-Century Vintage Modular Sectional Sofa Suite, France, 1960
By Rolf Benz, COR, Milo Baughman
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
Mid-century modular sofa in a 60s fabric. Consist of five sections with curved shapes. Good
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Canapes

Materials

Velvet

Circular Mid-Century Modern Modular Sofa, France, 1960s
By Rolf Benz, COR, Milo Baughman, B&B Italia
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
Mid-century modular sofa in a beautiful pink fabric. Consist of 13 modules of 318 centimeters long
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Canapes

Materials

Fabric

Mid-Century Vintage Modular Sectional Sofa Suite, Germany, 1960
By Rolf Benz, COR
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
Mid-century modular sofa in a beautiful velvet green. Consist of one corner modules, four sections
Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Canapes

Materials

Velvet

Mid-Century Vintage Modular Sectional Sofa Suite, France, 1970
By Rolf Benz, COR, Milo Baughman
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
Mid-century modular sofa in a 70s velvet. Consist of four sections with curved shapes. Good
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Canapes

Materials

Velvet

Vintage Modular Coat Rack, 1960s
Located in HEVERLEE, BE
Mid century modular wall mounted coat rack with hat storage. The hooks can be positioned as
Category

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

Materials

Metal

Vintage Modular Coat Rack, 1960s
Vintage Modular Coat Rack, 1960s
H 48.04 in W 38.59 in D 10.24 in
George Nelson for Herman Miller MCM Modular 2 Drawer Bar Cabinet and Bench
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Countryside, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Modular 2 Drawer Bar Cabinet and Bench The cabinet
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars

Materials

Metal

1960’s mid century teak wall unit with desk unit by Avalon
Located in London, GB
A mid century modular free standing shelving/storage unit manufactured by respected manufacturer
Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Steel

Modulable Height Floor Lamp by Luigi Caccia Dominioni Model LTE 13 Porcino
By Luigi Caccia Dominioni
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-century modular height floor lamp by Luigi Caccia Dominioni model LTE 13 "Porcino" - Italy
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Floor Lamps

Materials

Glass

Mid century modernist modular sofa, Netherlands 1960s
By Pierre Chapo, Gerrit Rietveld, Le Corbusier, Pierre Jeanneret, Charlotte Perriand Cassina
Located in ECHT, NL
Mid century seating group. Made from solid beech with ribcord upholstery. The frames are made from
Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Bauhaus Living Room Sets

Materials

Fabric, Beech

Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular Sofa Chairs
Located in Byron Bay, NSW
Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular sofa chairs in cream fabric and metal base 1970s. Stunning
Category

Vintage 1970s European Space Age Sofas

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular Sofa Chairs
Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular Sofa Chairs
H 28.75 in W 27.56 in D 35.44 in
Mid-Century Modern Modular Sectional Sofa, 1960s
By Knoll, Florence Knoll
Located in Antwerp, BE
Landscape sofa that provides unique comfort and modern straight lined. This stunning formed sofa has a frame of chromed steel and is finished in finest beige fabric. Its outstandin...
Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mid-Century Modern Modular Sectional Sofa, 1960s
Mid-Century Modern Modular Sectional Sofa, 1960s
H 29.14 in W 74.02 in D 29.14 in
2 Mid-Century Modern Geometric Modular Maple Shelving Bookcases Console Etagere
Located in Dayton, OH
A fun set of four "L" shaped modular bookcase units. Finished in Maple, circa 1970s. Each stacks
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

1960’s mid century Beaver & Tapley modular wall units
By Beaver and Tapley
Located in London, GB
other mid century pieces. Delivery We regularly ship to UK, Europe and worldwide. Exact costs will be
Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Set of Modular Wooden Cubes
Located in Brussels, BE
Midcentury set of modular wooden cubes.
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Set of Modular Wooden Cubes
Mid-Century Set of Modular Wooden Cubes
H 14.57 in W 14.57 in D 10.63 in
Mid-Century Modern Modular Wood Bookcase from 50s
Located in Catania, CT
Good vintage condition with trace of age and use for this wall unit made from wood and metal with brass details. The blue velvet background is in poor condition. Produced in Italy du...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Modular Wood Bookcase from 50s
Mid-Century Modern Modular Wood Bookcase from 50s
H 80.32 in W 123.23 in D 17.72 in
Mid-Century Modern Low Modular Square Upholstered Chair with Back
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
A low modular square stacked Mid-Century Modern lounge chair. This piece features a large square
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Planner Group Modular Cabinet
By Paul McCobb
Located in Tulsa, OK
Mid Century Modern Paul McCobb Planner Group Modular Cabinet Above average vintage condition and
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Maple

Gold Mid-Century Modern Anodized Aluminum Modular Wine Rack
Located in Atlanta, GA
Gold Mid-Century Modern anodized aluminum modular wine rack. A genius design of individual
Category

20th Century Barware

Materials

Aluminum

Italian Mid-Century Modern White Wood Modular Bookcase, 1970s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern White wood modular bookcase, 1970s. Modular bookcase composed of 4
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Modern Blue Modular Sofa, Italy, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern blue modular sofa, Italy, 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Italian Mid-Century Modern modular seat group, 1970’s
Located in TOLLEBEEK, NL
1970’s modular seating group, produced in Italy. The set features 8 loose seats in original velvet
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Upholstery, Velvet

Mid-Century Modern Curved or Circular Modular Serpentine Sofa
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A six piece modular sofa circa 1970's. These feature their original burnt orange wool fabric. In
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Mid-Century Modern Orange Modular Sofa, Italy, 1960s - New Upholstery
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Orange Modular Sofa, Italy, 1960s - New Upholstery
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Mid-Century Modern Anodized Gold Aluminum Modular Wine Rack
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage modular wine rack composed of nine individual anodized, extruded aluminum 'cylinders' that
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Wine Coolers

Materials

Aluminum

Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular Sofa, Original Brown Velvet, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Italian Modular sofa, original brown Velvet, 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Velvet

Mid Century Modern 2pc Modular Shelving Unit with Finished Back
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern two piece modular shelving unit features hardwood construction, free
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Wood

Italian Mid-Century Modern Modular Shelf System, Italy, 1960s
Located in Utrecht, NL
At the core of the design of this shelving system is Modernism that brought waves of innovative solutions, materials, and creativity to Italy. At first, most Italian designers found ...
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Albert Hansen - Mid-Century Rosewood Modular Shelving System circa 1960
By Albert Hansen
Located in Nantwich, GB
This beautiful shelving system comprising of 3 drawer cupboards, 2 sliding double door cupboards, glass fronted sliding door cupboard and 4 adjustable shelves with 3 adjustable wall ...
Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Mid Century Modern Walnut, Chrome & Cane Modular Secretary by Founders 20thC
By Founders Furniture Company
Located in Big Flats, NY
***Ask About Discounted In-House Shipping*** A Mid Century Modern secretary offers chrome frame
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Secretaires

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern French Modular System Shelve, Wood and Metal
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Mid-Century Modern French shelve. By unknown manufacturer from France, circa 1950. In original
Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern French Modular System Shelve, Wood and Metal
Mid-Century Modern French Modular System Shelve, Wood and Metal
Free Shipping
H 26.78 in W 25.99 in D 8.27 in
Mid-Century Modern French Modular System Shelve, Wood and Metal
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Mid-Century Modern French shelve. By unknown manufacturer from France, circa 1950. In original
Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal

Erwin-Lambeth, Mid-Century Modern, Large Modular Sectional Sofa, Re-upholstery
By Erwin-Lambeth
Located in Stamford, CT
Erwin-Lambeth, Mid-Century Modern, 5 Piece Modular Sectional Sofa for Re-upholstery A large center
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Wardrobe, Modular, Japanese Style, Walnut and Black
Located in Milano, IT
Very nice, vintage Mid-Century Modern modular wardrobe in walnut with elegant and refined black
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Materials

Wood, Walnut

Mid-Century Modern Modular Sofa by Rolf Heide for ICF, 1970s
By ICF De Padova
Located in Zagreb, HR
Mid-Century Modern Modular Sofa, without markings, attributed to Rolf Heide for ICF, 1970s The
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Foam, Wood

Italian Mid-Century Modern Teak and Brass Modular Wall Bookcase, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian Mid-Century Modern teak and brass modular wall bookcase with cabinets, 1960s Wall bookcase
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Set of 3 Lounge Chairs/Modular sofa, Italy 1970s
Located in Torino, Piemonte
Set of three lounge chairs/modular sofa, Italy 1970s, entirely renovated and newly reupholstered in
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Velvet

Italian Mid-Century Wooden Modular Revolving Bookcase by Salocchi Sormani, 1960s
By Sormani, Claudio Salocchi
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian mid-century wooden modular revolving bookcase by Salocchi for Sormani, 1960s. Modular
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Steel

Mid-Century Modern Modular Shelf Unit with integrated desk, Italy, 1950
Located in Madrid, ES
Modular Italian shelving String style, with integrated desk. It is composed of a black lacquered
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Metal, Brass

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Curved Modular Sofa attributed to Wittmann, 70s
By Wittmann
Located in Zagreb, HR
A beautiful three-part Mid-Century-Modern curved modular sofa in the style of Vladimir Kagan or
Category

Vintage 1970s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

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Mid Century Modular For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the mid century modular you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Frequently made of wood, metal and fabric, every mid century modular was constructed with great care. Find 934 options for an antique or vintage mid century modular now, or shop our selection of 28 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer mid century modular, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. Each mid century modular bearing Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern or Modern hallmarks is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made mid century modular over the years, but those crafted by Mario Bellini, String Design AB and Nils Nisse Strinning are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Mid Century Modular?

A mid century modular can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $4,806, while the lowest priced sells for $20 and the highest can go for as much as $108,322.

A Close Look at Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, 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.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. 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. 

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by legendary manufacturer Knoll, 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 — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Questions About Mid Century Modular
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019

    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.

    1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.

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