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What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?

1 Answer
What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?
The difference between Art Deco and mid-century modern (MCM) is that the terms describe two distinct design styles. Art Deco typically refers to pieces produced between the 1920s and 1930s. Furniture produced in this style tends to display bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs, metal accents, shimmering mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides, inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. MCM, or mid-century modern, emerged after World War II. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. Designers working in this style frequently used industrial materials, including steel, fiberglass, molded plywood, and alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak. Explore a wide variety of Art Deco and mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
Shop for Art Deco Furniture on 1stDibs
Exquisite Half Circle Art Deco Commode With Bakelite Hardware C. 1930
Located in Bernville, PA
This magnificent rare example of a half circle chest of drawers is from the Redlion Furniture Company Circa American 1930’s. It has spectacular book match Burl veneer with incredible...
Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Brass

Henri Bargas, the Three Doves, French Art Deco Terracotta 1920
Located in Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR
French Art Deco Terracotta Sculpture “The Three Doves” by Henri Bargas, France, circa 1920 A stunning example of French Art Deco sculpture, this terracotta piece titled “The Three D...
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Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Materials

Terracotta

1933 Art Deco Marathon Combination Lighter / Cigarette Case by F. A. Whittaker
Located in Red Lion, PA
1933 Art Deco Marathon Combination Lighter & Cigarette Case by F. A. Whittaker A rare and collectible example of 1930s novelty smoking accessories, this Marathon combination lighter and cigarette case showcases the elegance and innovation of Art Deco design. Crafted in 1933 by noted designer F. A. Whittaker, the case features a stunning airbrushed geometric pattern in alternating tan/black and grey/black abstract motifs, with a central cartouche that remains unengraved. The reverse is finished in a sophisticated grey and black design, emphasizing the clean, streamlined aesthetic typical of the era. The interior reveals meticulous attention to detail, including a wheel-turned chrome finish, two hinged cigarette holders for added functionality, and a built-in lighter stamped with US Patent No. 1921855 and marked “Marathon, Trade Mark, Pat Applied For.” Lighter fuel can easily be added via the side compartment near the hinge, and the interior remains exceptionally clean and free of issues. This piece shows gentle, expected wear, including minor enamel losses and an indentation at the lower left corner of the case, reflecting its authentic vintage character. Despite these imperfections, it remains a fully functional and highly desirable collector’s item. Marathon cigarette cases were celebrated in the early 20th century for their combination of practicality and artistry, and F. A. Whittaker was a prominent designer whose work elevated everyday smoking accessories into objects of sophistication. Collectors prize these cases for their mechanical ingenuity, stylish Art Deco design, and historical significance, making them a standout addition to any collection of vintage lighters...
Category

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Antique Stunning & Extra Large 23.6 Ø Alabaster Dish Shade Pendant w Rope ca1920
Located in Lisse, NL
One-of-a-Kind XL Aabaster pendant light with stunning Veins. Some pieces just stop you in your tracks, this extra-large amber color alabaster pendant is one of them. We’ve seen a lo...
Category

Early 20th Century European Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Alabaster, Brass

SIMONET Freres Modernist French Art Deco Chandelier 1920
Located in Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR
French Modernist Art Deco Chandelier for SIMONET Frères, 1920s — Bronze & Glass. This exquisite French Modernist Art Deco chandelier was crafted by SIMONET Frères, located at 60 Rue ...
Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Bronze

1920's Art Deco Marathon Red and Black Enamel Combo Cigarette Case and Lighter
Located in Red Lion, PA
1920s Art Deco Marathon Red and Black Enamel Combination Cigarette Case and Lighter This rare 1920s Art Deco Marathon cigarette case and lighter is a striking example of Jazz Age de...
Category

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Enamel, Chrome

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