Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Is rattan better than wicker?
1 Answer

No, rattan isn't better than wicker — they're not interchangeable terms. The use of rattan stretches from prehistory to IKEA. To clarify, rattan is not bamboo, which is a rigid, hollow reed. Stalks of rattan are dense, steamable and bendable, which is why it lends itself to curvaceous designs and infinite creative uses in a way bamboo does not. Nor is rattan synonymous with wicker, which is a broader term for woven items — often made of rattan fibers but also of willow, other pliable reeds or even synthetic materials. Wicker and rattan tend to get a bit of a bad rap, but they can actually mingle with a wide range of styles — when done the right way.
Find vintage rattan chairs, dressers, stools and other furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Find vintage rattan chairs, dressers, stools and other furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 5, 2024
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Shop for Rattan Furniture on 1stDibs
1970s Mid-Century Rattan and Pencil Reed Large Mirror, Organic Modern, Spain
Located in Valencia, VC
1970s Mid-Century Modern Organic Woven Rattan and Pencil Reed Mirror, Spain
Handmade in Spain circa the 1970s, this rectangular mirror features a beautifully textured frame crafted ...
Category
Vintage 1970s Spanish Organic Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Rattan, Reed, Mirror, Wood
Lane Rhythm Collection Walnut Mid-Century Modern Chest Armoire, circa 1970s
Located in Perkasie, PA
Title
Lane Rhythm Collection Walnut Mid-Century Modern Gentleman’s Chest Armoire, circa 1970s
Description
A handsome Lane walnut gentleman’s chest or armoire from the Rhythm Collection, dating to approximately the 1970s, featuring clean Mid-Century Modern lines, practical storage, and quality American construction.
The tall case is crafted in warm walnut with a streamlined architectural profile. The upper section is fitted with a pair of paneled doors opening to a fitted interior, while the lower section provides three generous drawers for additional storage.
One of the most distinctive features is the pair of reversible upper door panels, allowing the cabinet to be displayed with either the wood panels or the cane panels facing outward. This adds versatility and allows the appearance to be changed depending on the room or decor.
The drawers feature dovetailed construction, and the overall build quality reflects the substantial craftsmanship associated with Lane furniture.
Well suited for use in a bedroom, dressing room, guest room, or office, this piece offers both functional storage and a clean modern appearance.
Manufacturer: Lane
Collection: Rhythm Collection
Period: Late 20th Century
Date: circa 1970s
Style: Mid-Century Modern
Materials: Walnut, cane
Features: Fitted interior, reversible wood/cane door panels, three lower drawers
Construction: Dovetailed drawers
Condition
Excellent vintage condition with minor signs of light household use and age. Some small nicks, dings, and surface marks are present as pictured. Overall, the cabinet presents very well and is ready for use.
Dimensions
Width: 32.5 in.
Depth: 18 in.
Height: 68.5 in.
Suggested 1stDibs Keywords
Lane Rhythm Collection, Lane armoire, walnut gentleman’s chest, Mid-Century Modern armoire, walnut wardrobe, Lane chest, cane door cabinet...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Wardrobes and Armoires
Materials
Rattan, Walnut
1950s French Mid-Century Woven Rattan Planter on Oak Legs
Located in SOTTEVILLE-LÈS-ROUEN, FR
A charming French planter dating from the 1950s, featuring a beautifully woven rattan body with a richly textured, tightly braided rim and lower edge. The rectangular form is elevate...
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières
Materials
Rattan, Wood, Oak
Pair of Bauhaus Armchairs by Erich Dieckmann, Germany, circa 1930
Located in Berlin, DE
A beautiful pair of German Bauhaus armchairs designed by Erich Dieckmann, dating from around 1930.
The chairs feature elegant bentwood armrests and a refined wooden frame, combined ...
Category
Vintage 1920s German Bauhaus Armchairs
Materials
Rattan, Beech
Franco Albini Pair of Table Lamp in Rattan, Parchment and Wicker, Italy, 1960s
Located in Roma, IT
Marvelous and very unique pair of Mid-Century organic table lamps entirely handcrafted from curved rattan and hand-woven wicker, completed with parchment paper diffusers. These incre...
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Bamboo, Wicker, Cane, Rattan, Parchment Paper
Vintage Rattan Dome Pendant Light, Italian Mid-Century Modern, 1970s
Located in Sitges, Barcelona
Vintage Italian Mid-Century rattan dome pendant light, circa 1960-1970s, in the style of Gabriella Crespi. The pendant has been fully restored for safe use in the exact style and mat...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Rattan, Bamboo, Plastic

