American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville is today revered as one of the finest manufacturers of mid-century modern furniture in the United States, but its beginnings were unexpectedly humble.
Well ahead of the Civil War, tobacco was a cash crop in places such as Virginia, and the plant was grown with frequency on farms in Martinsville and elsewhere. In the early 1900s, the business around tobacco was changing and the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company was expanding nationally, buying any Virginia factories in reach. Former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee turned away from the business in 1906 and, with merely $30,000 in capital (and the support of local business leaders), began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company.
In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings. Alongside tallboy dressers and nightstands, Witten and Keesee’s outfit began to offer a range of dining-room sets to the discerning customer. By the 1950s, the name had been changed to American of Martinsville and the brand had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as its variety of furniture styles (Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie). Mass-marketed furniture meant big business in the postwar years and throughout the 20th century in Virginia, and factories owned by companies like Bassett Furniture and American of Martinsville remained busy as suburbanites bought furniture to fill the homes they were moving into.
It isn’t difficult to spot American of Martinsville’s sturdy, solid designs — the lacquered walnut nightstands, mahogany coffee tables and more have long earned the admiration of mid-century modernism enthusiasts. The company’s high profile also owes to prominent attributes that distinguish its well-made vintage furniture, such as the use of wooden slats — inspired by Scandinavian modernism — on hutches and cabinet doors, the famous brass x’s inlaid on the tops of tables and dressers and the stately stacked type of the American of Martinsville logo, which usually appears in drawer interiors. The stamp prominently features an eagle perched atop the lettering, its broad wings spread across the “American” portion.
Besides quality manufacturing, American of Martinsville is additionally recognized for having incorporated the trends of the day. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul Laszlo, the brand was also known for innovations with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company’s most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun’s most popular line was reportedly Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries.
Shop a wide selection of vintage American of Martinsville mid-century modern sideboards, side tables and more on 1stDibs.
1
to
258
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
150
536
381
299
226
Item Ships From: Miami
Creator: American of Martinsville
Mid-century American of Martinsville Dining Set of 6
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
Mid-century American of Martinsville Dining Set of 6
Offered for sale is a s set of 6 dining chairs with 2 arms and 4 sides. The chairs retain the original tags that say American Fu...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Fabric, Wood
Related Items
Mid Century Modern Walnut & Cane Dining Chair by American of Martinsville, 6 pcs
Located in Plainview, NY
A set of six Mid Century Modern dining chairs, a testament to the refined craftsmanship of the American Furniture Co of Martinsville, VA. This collection comprises two graceful armch...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Cane, Walnut
H 38 in W 19.5 in D 20 in
Set of Six Mid Century Dania Dining Chairs American of Martinsville c 1950/60s
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
Chic architectural set of Mid Century Modern dining chairs designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville as part of their classic Dania series, circa 1950-1960s. This impre...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Upholstery, Walnut
H 31 in W 19.5 in D 19 in
1960s Mid Century Walnut Dining Chairs - Set of 6
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Mid-century walnut dining chairs designed and manufactured in the United States circa 1960s. These stunning dining chairs feature a walnut frame. Whether you're looking to add elegan...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Fabric, Walnut
Mid century Dining Chairs, 1960s, Set of 2
Located in Prague 8, CZ
Pair of upholstered dining chairs, made in the former Czechoslovakia in the 1970s. The chairs are constructed of beech wood. Very int...
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Fabric, Wood, Beech
Set of Six Italian Mid-Century Dining Chairs
Located in New York, NY
Set of six Italian Modernist dining chairs attributed to Vittorio Dassi.
Stained beechwood.
Category
1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Beech
Mid century Dining Chairs, 1960s, Set of 2
Located in Prague 8, CZ
An upholstered dining chairs, made in the former Czechoslovakia in the 1960s. The chairs are constructed of beech wood. Very interesting shaping. The upholstery shows significant sig...
Category
Mid-20th Century Czech Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Beech, Fabric, Wood
Set of 6 Postmodern Cane Back Dining Chairs by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This set of six postmodern dining chairs by American of Martinsville feature hardwood construction, original burl wood finish, vintage cream colored upholstery, caned seat backs with...
Category
1970s American Post-Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Cane, Burl
Broyhill Brasilia Mid Century Dining Chairs, Set of 5
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Countryside, IL
Broyhill Brasilia mid century dining chairs - Set of 5
The captains' chair measures: 21.25 wide x 18 deep x 38 high, with a seat height of 19 inches and arm height of 23.75 inches...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Upholstery, Wood
AMERICAN OF MARTINSVILLE French Provincial Louis XVI Dining Side Chairs - Pair A
By American of Martinsville
Located in Charlotte, NC
A pair of French Provincial Louis XVI style dining side chairs by American of Martinsville. Solid hardwood with a whitewashed & slightly antiqued finish, decoratively fluted oval bac...
Category
Late 20th Century American Louis XVI American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Fabric, Wood
H 38.75 in W 20.75 in D 22 in
Mid-Century Set of 8 Dining Chairs
Located in London, GB
A set of eight rush and beech dining chairs, in the manner of Charlotte Perriand.
Spain, Mid 20th Century
87 cm high by 41 cm wide by 41 cm depth, seat height 45.5 cm
Category
Mid-20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Rush, Beech
Mid-Century Modern Set of Dining Chairs
Located in Austin, TX
Set of six mid-century dining chairs with a beautiful warm wood structure and white vinyl upholstery. They are supported by tapered legs with brass capped front feet.
Category
1950s French Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Upholstery, Wood
Art Deco American of Martinsville Burlwood 8 Piece Dining Set
By American of Martinsville
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Deco American of Martinsville burlwood 8 piece dining set.
Stunning Art Deco American of Martinsville burlwood 8 piece dining set. This set includes: table with 1 leaf, and 6 chairs.
Unique mirrored burlwood dining table with a leaf.
Beautiful set of 6 art deco campaign style dining chairs...
Category
1970s Art Deco Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Fabric, Cane, Rattan, Mirror, Burl
Previously Available Items
Pair of Vintage Mid-Century Modern Nightstands by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
A Pair of Vintage Mid-Century Modern nightstands by American of Martinsville. Circa 1970s
Feature and exceptional quality construction, tapered legs, and two tone facade drawers with...
Category
1970s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
American of Martinsville Accord Walnut Triple Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
A gorgeous 7 foot long Mid-Century Modern walnut credenza from the desirable Accord line manufactured by American of Martinsville in the 1960s. The dresser features three drawers wit...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Aluminum
American of Martinsville Accord Walnut and Cane King-Size Headboard
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
A vintage Mid-Century Modern king-size walnut headboard from the desirable Accord line manufactured by American of Martinsville in the 1960s. The bed features caned panels and a soli...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Cane, Walnut
Martinsville Rosewood, Walnut and Lacquer Credenza or Dresser, 1960s, USA
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
Gorgeous white lacquer dress in walnut and rosewood, 1960s, USA.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Rosewood, Walnut
Large Martinsville Credenza with Brass Accents, USA, 1960s
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
Gorgeous monumental Martinsville credenza with brass accents and canned doors, USA, 1960s.
Category
1960s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Sleek 1950s Modern Walnut Two-Drawer Bedside Tables
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
SOLD Fine PAIR of great scale mid-century modern two drawer bedside tables in walnut with brass pulls and sabots. These nightstands are acc...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Fine 1960s Asian Inspired Mustard Lacquer Nine Drawer Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
SOLD Beautifully lacquered a gloss mustard, this wonderfully detailed nine drawer dresser by American of Martinsville in the Asian Oriental taste is quite elegant with lots of storage. Featuring six full size drawers and three short drawers behind the center doors. Black lacquered and recessed eight leg molded...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Stellar Walnut Bamboo, Cane & Glass Bedside Tables
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
...SOLD...Tropical or Oriental in taste, this pair of nightstands or bedside tables have a great presence and style. Featuring a warm deep honey tone walnut body framed in shaped fa...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut, Cane
Campaign Style Tall Slender Dresser Valet by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
Quite smart, Classic walnut Campaign style inspired slender valet dresser. With a upward sliding tambour upper door above opening to a storage area with a thick smoked glass shelf. A...
Category
1960s American Campaign Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Superb Mahogany and Brass Night Tables by Merton Gershun
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Miami, FL
Reduced from $2500.... Refined & elegant, these bedside tables with three drawers were designed by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville. The pair in lustrous mahogany offset by ebonized mahogany with wonderful antiqued brass drop pulls...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
American Of Martinsville furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of American of Martinsville furniture, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original furniture by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by John Widdicomb, Planner Group, and John Stuart. Prices for American of Martinsville furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $322 and can go as high as $39,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,348.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Furniture
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024How much an American of Martinsville dresser weighs can vary greatly. The dimensions and materials of the piece will determine its weight. Generally, highboy dressers will be the heaviest pieces produced by the American furniture maker due to their size. Shop a diverse assortment of American of Martinsville dressers on 1stDibs.
- What is Elgin American?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
- What is American oak?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021American oak comes from oak trees that grow in America (as opposed to in Europe). While both are pale, American oaks have a slightly pink undertone and European oaks have a honey-hued undertone.
- What color is American walnut?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021With respect to the actual wood, the outer layer of American walnut — the sapwood — has a creamy yellow-white color whereas the inner layer — the heartwood — ranges from a golden brown to dark chocolate brown color. In more descriptive words, the color of American walnut embodies the richness of chocolate mixed with slight undertones of red wine. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage American walnut furniture.
- What is African American quilting?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022African American quilting has roots in history during slavery and was a way for African American women to bond. The quilts themselves tell stories of history, teach lessons and are beacons of hope. Shop a collection of African American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The history of African-American quilting stretches back almost as far as the beginning of the United States itself. The craft began with slave women quilting on plantations and after emancipation, the tradition of quilting continued. Today, there are many African American quilters who are inspired by a number of different quilting traditions. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of African-American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is American cut glass?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021American cut glass is a technique used for decorating glass. The period from 1771 to 1876 is considered the early period of American cut glass — later, cut glass was called Brilliant glass. This technique is associated with high labor costs and involves the work of skilled craftsmen — American cut glass is considered a luxury item and can be very valuable.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.
- What do Americans call a sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Some famous African-American artists include Horace Pippin, Augusta Savage, Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Aaron Douglas, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kerry James Marshall, Theaster Gates, Sam Gillam, Kara Walker and Kehinde Wiley. Shop a variety of African-American art from some of the world’s top galleries on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The most well-known Native American blankets come from Navajo weaving, which are prized by collectors worldwide. Originally utilitarian, the Navajo people began creating blankets specifically for export and tourism in the 19th century. Shop a collection of Navajo blankets from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Native American slippers are called moccasins. Moccasins are characterized by their U-shaped puckered toe design and are crafted with various leathers such as sheepskin or buffalo. They may or may not be decorated with beading. Shop a collection of authentic moccasins from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To identify Native American baskets, you can research the patterns using authoritative online resources to try and determine which tribe produced it. However, many replicas exist and there are many tribes that produced baskets. As a result, it is a good idea to consult a licensed appraiser. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Native American baskets.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What a Native American headdress represents depends on what tribe produced it. In general, headdresses may symbolize a person's status within the tribe or serve as a sign of bravery during battle. You'll find a selection of Native American headdresses on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American Brilliant cut glass is deeply and sharply cut glass known for its reflective quality and highly polished nature. This type of glass is thick, heavy, and very clear.
Bonnin Ashley Antiques IncFebruary 23, 2021The difference between cut glass and cut crystal is the lead content along with some other criteria. "There are three primary criteria for crystal as established by the European Union in 1969: a lead content in excess of 24%, a density in excess of 2.90 and a reflective index of 1.545." "Prior to 1969 crystal glass was generally around 36% lead. However, due to concerns over lead leaching the percentage was reduced to the [unofficial} standard of 24%. Today glass with a lead content of 10% or more is considered to be crystal or “fine glass”" in the US. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is good quality. Skilled artisans make every piece that bears the American furniture maker's name with precision computer-controlled systems to maximize quality while expediting the manufacturing process to allow custom-made pieces to be produced much more quickly. American Leather also uses computer systems to scan hides, ensuring that only the finest leathers are used as upholstery on its furniture. Find a variety of American leather furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is real leather. The American furniture maker typically uses genuine glove leather for its upholstered pieces. Only the top 10% of hides in the world meet the company's standards. Shop a diverse assortment of American Leather furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native Americans used to produce baskets varied from tribe to tribe. Generally, craftsmen used whatever materials were readily available. In the Northeast, sweet grass was a common material, while pine needles and wicker are frequently found in baskets produced by tribes in the Southeast. Find a range of vintage and antique baskets on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022In the Native American language of Powhatan spoken by the Algonquian indigenous people, moccasin refers to a hand-sewn suede bootie. Today, people may call any shoes that feature stitched round toes by the name. Shop a variety of moccasins on 1stDibs.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville Dressers
American of Martinsville Bedroom Furniture
American of Martinsville Credenzas
American of Martinsville End Tables
American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
American of Martinsville Cabinets
American of Martinsville Side Tables
American of Martinsville Sideboards
American of Martinsville Coffee and Cocktail Tables
American of Martinsville Dining Room Chairs
American of Martinsville Dining Room Tables
American of Martinsville Buffets