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

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 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 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 Seeing

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Ilana GreenbergSeeing Stripes, 2023

Antique Mid-19th Century Unknown Modern Cocktail Rings

All Seeing Eye Triangle Ring in 18k White Gold

1960s American Modern Abstract Paintings

Clarence Holbrook CarterSeeing Egg, Surrealist Ovoid acrylic painting, Figural Abstract, c. 1960s

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

All Seeing Eye Hand-Made Ceramic Bowl, by Bruce Anderson Pogonip Pottery

1960s American Modern Abstract Paintings

Clarence Holbrook CarterSeeing Egg No. 2, Surrealist Ovoid acrylic painting, Figural Abstract, 1965

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Mid-20th Century Large Italian Ceramic Cat Figure

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

1960s Mid-Century Modern Hans Wegner Peacock Chair

Late 20th Century Abstract Abstract Sculptures

Marc WeinsteinMarc Weinstein Mid Century Modern Brutalist Abstract Sunburst Metal Sculpture, circa mid 20th century

Vintage 1960s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts

Mid-Century Modern Serving Trolley Bar Cart

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Mid-Century Modern UFO Style Floor Lamp by MG Wheeler

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Danish Mid-Century Modern Design Hans Wegner Peacock Chair

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid Century Naive Winter Landscape Painting Ice Scating

Vintage 1970s American Architectural Elements

Mid Century Room Divider Folding Screen

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Charlotte Perriand Mid-Century Modern Nuage Shelving Unit by Cassina

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Mid-Century Modern Pair of Armchairs in Hardwood & Bouclé, Fatima, c. 1960

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Mid-Century Modern Lane Rhythm Collection Walnut End Tables a Pair

1970s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresGarden, Abstract Expressionist Mid-Century Modern geometric work, 1972

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresPanama Garden, Mid-century abstract expressionist modern work, c. 1964

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Italian Mid-Century Red Gold Six Lights Chandelier Attributed to Stilnovo, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Very Rare Mid-Century Modern Sideboard / Credenza by 't Woonhuys of Amsterdam

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Set 4 mid century 1960’s chairs by Maurice Burke for Arkana after Eero Saarinen

1970s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresFragment, abstract expressionist mid-century painting, Cleveland School artist, c. 1970

1940s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresAbstract expressionist blue, black & green mid-century geometric painting, c. 1949

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Francisco Jose JimenezSilhoutte by Francisco Jimenez - Mid-Century Modern Nude Figurative Painting

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Pietro Chiesa Large Artisan Style Chandelier Blue Glass Brass, Italy Mid Century

Mid-20th Century Fauvist Landscape Paintings

Fred PailhèsLe Grand Quai, Le Havre. French Mid 20th Century Framed 1950s Oil on Panel.

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresUntitled abstract expressionist mid-century painting by Cleveland School artist, c. 1950

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid-Century Modern Italian Glass Chrome Pendant Lamp by T. Zuccheri, Italy 1970

1970s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresErie Shore, Large Abstract Expressionist Mid-Century Modern geometric work, c. 1975

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresAbstract expressionist, white and yellow mid-century modern geometric painting, c. 1953

1960s Abstract Geometric Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresPieces Collage, vibrant mid-century abstract. expressionist black, pink & red , c. 1965

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresMagic Garden, vibrant mid-century abstract expressionist colorful geometric work, c. 1962

1960s Abstract Geometric Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresNaval Occurrence, orange, blue & green mid-century, abstract geometrical work, c. 1963

1940s American Modern Figurative Paintings

Henry Ernst SchnakenbergBoys Swimming Industrial Landscape WPA Mid 20th Century Social Realism Modernism, 1940s

1960s Modern Landscape Paintings

Otis Dozier"GREEN BOATS" OTIS DOZIER 1960 MCM ABSTRACT MID CENTURY MODERN, DATED 1960

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresShore V, large colorful red, black & blue mid-century abstract expressionist , c. 1964

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Richard AndresBlue Wall, mid-century abstract expressionist, geometric blue, black & pink work, c. 1959

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Serving Bowls

Mid Century Modern Large Krenit Bowl by Herbert Krenchel / Torben Ørskov Denmark

1970s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Donald DeskeyAbstract Mid-20th Century Oil Non Objective NYC Radio City Music Hall, 1970s

1850s Italian School Figurative Sculptures

Ilana Greenberg
Seeing Stripes, 2023

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Seeing Egg, Surrealist Ovoid acrylic painting, Figural Abstract, c. 1960s

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Seeing Egg No. 2, Surrealist Ovoid acrylic painting, Figural Abstract, 1965

Marc Weinstein
Marc Weinstein Mid Century Modern Brutalist Abstract Sunburst Metal Sculpture, circa mid 20th century

Richard Andres
Garden, Abstract Expressionist Mid-Century Modern geometric work, 1972

Richard Andres
Panama Garden, Mid-century abstract expressionist modern work, c. 1964

Richard Andres
Fragment, abstract expressionist mid-century painting, Cleveland School artist, c. 1970

Richard Andres
Abstract expressionist blue, black & green mid-century geometric painting, c. 1949

Francisco Jose Jimenez
Silhoutte by Francisco Jimenez - Mid-Century Modern Nude Figurative Painting

Fred Pailhès
Le Grand Quai, Le Havre. French Mid 20th Century Framed 1950s Oil on Panel.

Richard Andres
Untitled abstract expressionist mid-century painting by Cleveland School artist, c. 1950

Richard Andres
Erie Shore, Large Abstract Expressionist Mid-Century Modern geometric work, c. 1975

Richard Andres
Abstract expressionist, white and yellow mid-century modern geometric painting, c. 1953

Richard Andres
Pieces Collage, vibrant mid-century abstract. expressionist black, pink & red , c. 1965

Richard Andres
Magic Garden, vibrant mid-century abstract expressionist colorful geometric work, c. 1962

Richard Andres
Naval Occurrence, orange, blue & green mid-century, abstract geometrical work, c. 1963

Henry Ernst Schnakenberg
Boys Swimming Industrial Landscape WPA Mid 20th Century Social Realism Modernism, 1940s

Otis Dozier
"GREEN BOATS" OTIS DOZIER 1960 MCM ABSTRACT MID CENTURY MODERN, DATED 1960

Richard Andres
Shore V, large colorful red, black & blue mid-century abstract expressionist , c. 1964

Richard Andres
Blue Wall, mid-century abstract expressionist, geometric blue, black & pink work, c. 1959

Donald Deskey
Abstract Mid-20th Century Oil Non Objective NYC Radio City Music Hall, 1970s

Richard Anuszkiewicz
Near and Far Acuity, Mid Century Modern Op Art painting from historic exhibition, 1957

Haig Patigian
Industrial Machine Age American Scene WPA Mid 20th Century 1939 SF World's Fair

David Fredenthal
"Tobacco Road" Mid 20th Century Realism 1940 Drawing from the Novel WPA Literary

David Fredenthal
TOBACCO ROAD Mid 20th Century Realism 1940 Drawing from the Novel WPA Literary 3, 1939

John Gould and Henry Constantine Richter
Yarrell's Wood-star Hummingbirds: A 19th Century Hand-Colored Gould Lithograph, 1850

Viktor Schreckengost
Mayan, Large 20th Century Watercolor, Viktor Schreckengost

Jules René Hervé
"Cafe by the Beach in the Summer" Impressionist Oil Painting Canvas with Figures, Mid-20th Century