1950s Scandinavian
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1950s, Scandinavian Art Deco Chairs, Original Condition
Located in Tarm, 82
1950s, scandinavian Art Deco chairs, original good condition. No smels. Original red and beige
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Fabric, Oak
1950s Scandinavian Design Style Wood and Beige Fabric Chair
Located in Tourcoing, FR
1950s Scandinavian design style wood and beige fabric chair.
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Fabric, Wood
1950s, Scandinavian design, wood armchair, ash wood, oak wood.
Located in Tarm, 82
1950s, Scandinavian highback armchair in ash and oak wood. Original good condition: no smells and
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Ash, Oak
1950s, Scandinavian design, reupholstered armchair, fabric, oak wood.
Located in Tarm, 82
1950s, Scandinavian design - Danish or Swedish. Reupholstered armchair in quality furniture fabric
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Fabric, Oak
H 31.89 in W 26.78 in D 33.47 in
1950s Scandinavian and Danish Style Cane Wicker and Wooden Armchair
Located in Tourcoing, FR
1950s Scandinavian and Danish style cane wicker and wooden armchair.
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Velvet, Wood, Rattan
1950s, Scandinavian Minimalist Sawhorse Desk or Table
Located in Chillerton, Isle of Wight
1950s Scandinavian sawhorse minimalist desk or table.
A very popular classic design from the
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Teak
Set of 4 1950’s Scandinavian glasses by Monica Bratt
Located in Debenham, Suffolk
Set of 4 1950's Scandinavian glasses by Monica Bratt circa 1950.
Monica bratt (1913-1961) was a
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Glass
Materials
Glass, Art Glass
1950s Scandinavian Design Style Wood and Cane with Beige Fabric Chair
Located in Tourcoing, FR
1950s Scandinavian design style patina wooden structure with wicker cane back and beige fabric seat
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Wicker, Fabric, Wood
H 33.86 in W 22.45 in D 23.63 in
Set of 4 1950’s Scandinavian red wine glasses by Monica Bratt
Located in Debenham, Suffolk
Set of 4 1950's scandinavian red wine glasses by monica bratt circa 1950.
Monica bratt (1913-1961
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Glass
Materials
Glass
4 pieces of 1950’s Scandinavian red art glass by Monica Bratt
Located in Debenham, Suffolk
4 pieces of 1950's Scandinavian red art glass by monica bratt circa 1950.
Monica Bratt (1913-1961
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Art Glass
1950’s Scandinavian armchairs
By Jan van Grunsven
Located in London, Lambeth
A pair of wonderfully stylish armchairs Scandinavian and well crafted
With jointed oak frame and
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Oak
5 pieces of 1950’s Scandinavian red art glass by monica bratt
Located in Debenham, Suffolk
5 pieces of 1950's Scandinavian red art glass by Monica Bratt circa 1950.
Monica Bratt (1913-1961
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Glass
Materials
Art Glass
Sideboard of 1950s Scandinavian manufacture
Located in Brescia, IT
1950s sideboard of Nordic manufacture.
Simple and classic lines for this vintage sideboard with
Category
Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Sideboards
Materials
Teak
1950s Scandinavian Modern Ceramic Wall Decoration
Located in Sagaponack, NY
Ceramic wall decoration comprised of various sized ceramic shapes strung together with thin black wire each with a matte finish orange to black glaze. The three largest and irregular...
Category
Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Modern Decorative Art
Materials
Ceramic
Swedish Geometric Flat-Weave Rug Signed MLB 1950s Scandinavian Artist
By Märta Måås-Fjetterström
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Exceptional Swedish flat-weave Kilim rug.
Gorgeous blues and whites in a mesmerizing geometric design.
Signed by the weaver "MLB".
Measures: 84 x 57".
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Russian and Scandinavian Rugs
Materials
Wool
1950s Scandanavian Teak Elephant Sculpture Danish Modern
Located in Spring Valley, CA
Beautiful pair of teak wood elephant figurines. Designer is unkown, but in the manner of Arne Tjomsland, and from the same time period as indicated by the style. Shows minimal signs ...
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures
Materials
Teak
1950s Scandinavian Folding Wood Side End Tables
Located in Victoria, BC
These one of a kind end tables were probably made in Sweden or Finland in the 1950s. They feature
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Materials
Birch
1950s Scandinavian Modern Pivot Back Oak Dining Chairs
Located in Sagaponack, NY
An oak dining chair with a pivoting backrest and upholstered seat. Two chairs available with arms (24" W) and four without arms (20" W).
Category
Vintage 1950s European Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Oak
1950's Scandinavian Teak Cabinet Buffet Cabinet High Boy
Located in Silvolde, Gelderland
Typical Scandinavian buffet cabinet in beech and teak . Inside there are five shells as wel as two
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Cabinets
Materials
Beech, Teak
1950s, Scandinavian design, seat dresser, oak wood, sheepskin.
Located in Tarm, 82
1950-60, Scandinavian design, seater dresser. Oak wood, new seat cushion of quality New Zeland
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Dressers
Materials
Sheepskin, Oak
1950s Scandinavian Cinched Waist Teak Vase by Matador Traekunst
Located in Sagaponack, NY
A turned teak vase with a cinched waist.
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vases
Materials
Teak
1950s, Scandinavian Vintage Armchair, Original Condition, Leather, Oak Wood
Located in Tarm, 82
Scandinavian designed vintage armchair. Made in about 1950 by Danish or Swedish furniture
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Leather, Oak
H 30.32 in W 23.23 in D 22.45 in
Hans Wegner Danish Lounge Chair CH28 Sawback, 1950s Scandinavian
By Hans J. Wegner, Carl Hansen & Søn
Located in Lyon, FR
Original CH28 sawback lounge chair designed by Hans Wegner, Denmark, for Carl Hansen & Sons in massive teak. Minor sign.
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Leather, Teak
1950s Scandinavian Cabinmodern Teak Sculptural Canoe Long Bowl Danish
By Jens Quistgaard
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Denmark, c.1950. A long and large staved teak centerpiece fruit bowl designed by Jens Quistgaard
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Teak
Small Pendant lamp Maria Lindeman for Idman, 1950's Scandinavian Modern
By Idman, Maria Lindeman
Located in Chicago, IL
Maria Lindeman
Pendant lamp
Idman, circa 1950's. Finland.
Hardwired.
Teak slats, glass, enameled
Category
Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Teak
1950s, Scandinavian Architectural Vessel Bowl White Yellow Dot Monumental Norway
By Krenit, Nordika Design, Cathrineholm
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Large pressed steel serving bowl enameled with white and a bright yellow center. Similar to the designs of Arne Clausen for Cathrineholm. This bowl appears to be unused and retains o...
Category
Vintage 1950s Norwegian Scandinavian Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Metal
H 2.25 in Dm 17.75 in
1950s Scandinavian Side Table by Danish Cabinetmaker in Teakwood and Beech
By Peder Moos, Finn Juhl
Located in Odense, DK
Wonderful small side table from the 1950s with drum stick legs and a curved top in solid teakwood
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Brass
H 20.48 in W 26.78 in D 16.93 in
1950s Scandinavian Modern Lounge Chair by Arne Jacobsen for Fritz Hansen
By Arne Jacobsen, Fritz Hansen
Located in Sagaponack, NY
An early "Egg" chair with vintage upholstery.
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Wool
H 39.5 in W 34.25 in D 28 in
Brown Ceramic Vase Carl-Harry Stålhane Rörstrand, 1950s Scandinavian Mid century
By Carl-Harry Stålhane, Rörstrand
Located in Stockholm, SE
A brown ceramic vase designed by Carl-Harry Stålhane at Rörstrand, it´s 31 cm high and it´s in very
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic
H 12.21 in Dm 3.94 in
Pair of Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Skohg Sterling Paintings on Swedish Stones
By Gustavsberg, Borje Skohg
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Wonderful pair of rare studio craft Scandinavian collectibles.
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Stone
H 1.5 in W 3 in D 2.5 in
1950s Scandinavian Teak Arctic Polar Bear Figure Sculpture Cabin Modern Danish
By Arne Tjomsland
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Wonderful uncommon 1950s design from Denmark of an arctic polar bear. Ink stamped, with remnants of
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Animal Sculptures
Materials
Teak
H 4.38 in W 9 in D 2.75 in
1950s Scandinavian Sea Anemone Forms Salt Pepper Sugar Stig Lindberg Gustavsberg
By Stig Lindberg
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Rare museum worthy biomorphic pure white 'bone china' salt, pepper, and sugar/cinnamon shakers.
Measures: Salt and pepper diameter 1.25 x height: 3 in.
Sugar shaker diameter 1.7...
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Tableware
Materials
Porcelain
H 4.25 in Dm 1.75 in
1950s Scandinavian Swan Neck Gooseneck Task Desk Lamp Black & Brass Midcentury
By Erik Wärnå, Ewå Värnamo
Located in Sherborne, Dorset
A very neat Midcentury Swedish swan neck desk lamp with a black aluminium shade, brass swan neck and unusually shaped, heavy cast steel base with switch. The lamp holds well in a var...
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Aluminum, Steel, Brass
H 20.48 in W 4.73 in D 7.88 in
1950s Scandinavian Stig Sandqvist Hand Carved Teak Canoe Bowls Sculptures Design
By Stig Sandqvist
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Mid-Century Modern Stig Sandqvist handmade sculptural bowl forms. Large bowl is signed, small bowl is not signed.
Measures: SM 16 x 2.88 x 1.25 in.
LG 19.88 x 3.75 x 1.63 in.
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Teak
H 1.63 in W 19.88 in D 3.75 in
Pendant lamp Maria Lindeman for Idman Model K2-74, 1950's Scandinavian Modern
By Idman, Maria Lindeman
Located in Chicago, IL
Maria Lindeman
Pendant lamp
Idman, circa 1950's. Finland.
Hardwired.
Teak slats, glass, enameled
Category
Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Teak
1950s Scandinavian Modern Judas Dining Table by Finn Juhl for Niels Vodder
By Niels Vodder, Finn Juhl
Located in Sagaponack, NY
and architectural base with turned dowel legs. Made in Denmark, circa 1950s.
Finn Juhl was first
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Silver
Stool in Oak and Cane by Ølholm Møbelfabrik, Denmark, 1950s, Scandinavian Modern
By Ølholm Møbelfabrik
Located in Odense, DK
piece of Danish design from the 1950s. Great condition.
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Stools
Materials
Cane, Oak
H 16.93 in W 21.26 in D 14.18 in
1950's Scandinavian Pair Bentwood Armchairs Club Easy Chairs From Sweden in Elm
By Jindrich Halabala
Located in Silvolde, Gelderland
Set of two beautiful 1950's armchairs / easy club chairs with elegant curved bentwood armrests in
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Fabric, Elm
H 31.5 in W 25.2 in D 31.5 in
Original 1950s Scandinavian Rya Rug by Ritva Puotila for Finnrya Oy AB, Finland
By Ritva Puotila, Finnrya Oy AB
Located in Kirchlengern, DE
Article:
Original huge 1950s Rya rug
Design:
Ritva Puotila
Producer:
Finnrya Oy
Category
Mid-20th Century Finnish Mid-Century Modern Western European Rugs
Materials
Wool
Free Shipping
W 53.94 in L 72.05 in
Mari Simmulsson "cross-hatched" Bowl for Upsala Ekeby, Scandinavian Modern
By Mari Simmulson, Upsala Ekeby
Located in New York, NY
Ekeby, Sweden, circa 1950’s. Scandinavian Modern.
Measures: Diameter: 9“ Height: 4.5”.
Category
Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Ceramic
Danish Modern Fog & Morup Style Papercord Wall Light, 1950s
By Ib Fabiansen, Fog & Mørup
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Classic 1950s Scandinavian midcentury modern wall lamp. Attributed to/in the style of Ib Fabiansen
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Wood, Papercord
Salt, Pepper and Sugar Shaker Set by Johnny Mattsson, Sweden, 1950s
By Johnny Mattsson
Located in Stockholm, SE
1950s. Scandinavian modern classic in excellent condition.
Measures: Salt and pepper diameter 4 cm x
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Tableware
Materials
Teak
Danish Modern Hand-Crafted Wooden Bench, 1950s
Located in Copenhagen, DK
joints and a classic minimalist aesthetic. A distinctive 1950s Scandinavian modernist seating item in
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Benches
Materials
Wood
Black signed 'Safir' Glass Bowl By Per Lütken For Holmegaard
By Per Lütken
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Rare 1950s Scandinavian art piece by Per Lütken for Holmegaard.
The bowl is also called ''Fried
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Blown Glass
Swedish Modern Brass Table Lamp
By Boréns Borås
Located in Uccle, BE
Fine quality pair of bulbous 1950s Scandinavian brass lamps. With makers label underneath
Category
Late 20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Kosta "Zebra" Glass Vase by Vicke Lindstrand, 1950s.
By Vicke Lindstrand, Kosta Glasbruk 1
Located in Asaa, DK
Kosta "Zebra" Glass Vase by Vicke Lindstrand, 1950s.
Scandinavian hand blown art glass by Vicke
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases
Materials
Blown Glass
Borge Mogensen Danish Teak Scandinavian Rustic CabinModern Campaign Dresser Boho
By Poul Volther, Slagelse Mobelvaerk, Børge Mogensen
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Børge Mogensen teak chest of drawers for Soborg Mobelfabrikk. A beautiful 1950s scandinavian
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dressers
Materials
Brass
H 29.38 in W 47.38 in D 23.63 in
Danish Modern Teak and Brass Chandelier, 1950s.
Located in Asaa, DK
Danish Modern Teak and Brass Chandelier, 1950s.
Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern ceiling lamp with
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Vintage Teak Coffee Table, Scandinavia 1950s
Located in Ceglie Messapica, IT
Vintage Teak Coffee Table, Scandinavia 1950s
A 1950s Scandinavian coffee table with teak wood top
Category
Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Brass, Iron
Scandinavian Modern Brass Acrylic Bar Cart Josef Frank for Svenskt Tenn Sweden
By Josef Frank, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Miami, FL
Chic 1950s Scandinavian modern brass bar cart designed by Josef Frank and manufactured for Svenskt
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Brass
H 25 in W 29 in D 19 in
Mid-Century Modern Møre Lenestol Fabrikk Klarinett Teak Lounge Chair
By More Lenestolfabrikk
Located in Wilmington, DE
Offered is a 1950s Scandinavian Modern 'Klarinett' lounge chair by Møre Lenestol Fabrikk A/S. It is
Category
Vintage 1950s Norwegian Scandinavian Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Teak
Danish Dining Table in Oak with Brass Feet
Located in Waalwijk, NL
Dining table, oak, brass, Denmark, 1950s
Scandinavian Modern dining table with rectangular top
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Brass
Kosta "Contour" Glass Vase by Vicke Lindstrand, 1950s.
By Kosta Glasbruk 1, Vicke Lindstrand
Located in Asaa, DK
Kosta "Contour" Glass Vase by Vicke Lindstrand, 1950s.
Scandinavian hand blown art glass by Vicke
Category
Vintage 1950s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases
Materials
Blown Glass
Nanna Ditzel Sofa and Hans Wegner AT-11 Coffee Table
By Nanna Ditzel, Andreas Tuck Møbelfabrik, Hans J. Wegner, Soren Willadsen Mobelfabrik
Located in Littleton, CO
A beautiful 1950s Scandinavian Modern combo, sharing just the right complementary proportions
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Living Room Sets
Materials
Wool, Oak, Teak
Metis 179 Wood Stool, Metal, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis Wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Stools
Materials
Metal
H 35.83 in W 18.9 in D 19.69 in
Metis 175 Wood Chair, Metal, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis Wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 31.5 in W 20.87 in D 20.48 in
Metis 177 Wood Lounge, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis Wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 27.96 in W 20.87 in D 23.63 in
Metis 178 Wood Lounge, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Metal
H 27.96 in W 20.87 in D 26.38 in
Metis 179 Wood Stool, Metal, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Stools
Materials
Metal
H 39.77 in W 18.9 in D 19.69 in
Metis 176 Wood Chair, Metal, Colors, Contract, Bar, Restaurant, Design, Oak, Ash
By Gabbertas Studio
Located in MARANO VICENTINO, IT
Metis wood, a complete collection for modern spaces inspired by 1950s Scandinavian simplicity. The
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Metal
H 31.5 in W 20.87 in D 23.23 in
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1950s Scandinavian For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal 1950s Scandinavian for your home. Each 1950s Scandinavian for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using wood, hardwood and metal. Find 23221 options for an antique or vintage 1950s Scandinavian now, or shop our selection of 9 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect 1950s Scandinavian — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. A 1950s Scandinavian is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Scandinavian Modern, Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco styles are sought with frequency. A well-made 1950s Scandinavian has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Hans J. Wegner, Børge Mogensen and Fritz Hansen are consistently popular.
How Much is a 1950s Scandinavian?
Prices for a 1950s Scandinavian can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $10 and can go as high as $350,000, while the average can fetch as much as $2,895.
A Close Look at Scandinavian Modern Furniture
Scandinavian modernism is perhaps the warmest and most organic iteration of modernist design. The work of the designers associated with vintage Scandinavian modern furniture was founded on centuries-old beliefs in both quality craftsmanship and the ideal that beauty should enhance even the humblest accessories of daily life.
ORIGINS OF SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Emerged in the 1930s
- Originated primarily in Denmark, Sweden and Finland
- Introduced in the United States in mid-20th century
- Informed by the Bauhaus and modernism; influenced American mid-century modernism
CHARACTERISTICS OF SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Bold, clean lines and simple, sturdy symmetries
- Use of natural materials — native woods such as pine, ash and beech
- Open, airy spaces
- Promotion of functionality
- Emphasis on craftsmanship; rooted in cabinetry profession and traditional construction techniques
- Minimal ornamentation (little to no embellishment)
- A neutral or light color palette owing to prominence of light woods
SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Alvar Aalto
- Hans Wegner
- Kaare Klint
- Arne Jacobsen
- Greta Magnusson Grossman
- Finn Juhl
- Arne Vodder
- Verner Panton
ICONIC SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
VINTAGE SCANDINAVIAN MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The gentle, organic contours that are typical of Scandinavian design appear in the furnishings and decor created by Danish, Finnish and Swedish designers not as a stylistic gesture, but rather as a practical, ergonomic — and, as importantly, elegant — response to the human form.
Each nation produced exceptional talents in all areas of the applied arts, yet each had its forté. Sweden was home to Greta Magnusson Grossman and Bruno Mathsson — creators of the classic Grasshopper lighting series and Berlin daybed, respectively — but the country excelled most notably at ceramics. In the 1920s at the great Gustavsberg porcelain manufactory, Wilhelm Kåge introduced pieces in the Scandinavian style based on influences from folklore to Cubism; his skills were passed on to his versatile and inspired pupils Berndt Friberg and Stig Lindberg.
Likewise, Finland produced a truly ingenious Scandinavian modern furniture designer in the architect Alvar Aalto, a master at melding function and artistic form in works like the Paimio chair, created in collaboration with his first wife, Aino. Yet Finnish glassware was pre-eminent, crafted in expressive, sculptural designs by Tapio Wirkkala and Timo Sarpaneva.
The Danes excelled at chairs. Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen were exemplars of the country’s facility with wood, particularly teak.
Wegner created such iconic pieces as the Round chair and the Wishbone chair; Jacobsen — while the revolutionary architect and furniture innovator produced the best-selling plywood Ant chair — designed two classic upholstered pieces of the 1950s: the Swan chair and Egg chair. The list of great Danes could go on and on, including Finn Juhl, a stylistic maverick and maker of the bold Chieftain chair; Poul Kjaerholm, with his lean metal-and-rattan aesthetic; and Verner Panton, who introduced a vibrant Pop note into international design.
Today, decades after their heyday, the prolific, ever-evolving Scandinavian modernists continue to amaze and delight, and interior designers all over the world use their pieces to bring warmth to any given space.
On 1stDibs, you will note both instantly recognizable vintage Scandinavian modern chairs, sofas, rugs and tables — those that have earned iconic status over time — and many new discoveries.
Questions About 1950s Scandinavian
- What is Scandinavian silver?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Scandinavian silver is a metal that is 83 percent pure silver and 17 percent copper or other metals. Artisans use it to produce jewelry, tableware and a variety of decorative objects. You'll find a collection of Scandinavian silver jewelry, serveware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
- What is a Scandinavian table?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023A Scandinavian table likely refers to a table that was produced in Denmark, Finland or Sweden. In the context of furniture design, a “Scandinavian table” features attributes commonly associated with Scandinavian modernism. Characterized by bold, clean lines and simple, sturdy symmetries, Scandinavian modernism is perhaps the warmest and most organic iteration of modernist design. The work of the designers associated with this style was founded on centuries-old beliefs in both quality craftsmanship and the ideal that beauty should enhance even the humblest accessories of daily life. On 1stDibs, find a variety of vintage Scandinavian modern tables from some of the world's top sellers.
- What is Scandinavian glass?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Scandinavian glass is decorative glassware produced by artisans from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden. Some notable glassworks from the region include Alsterfors, Aseda, Ekenas Glasbruk, Flygsfors, Hadeland Glassverk, Pukeberg, Reijmyre and Ryd Glasbruk. Shop a variety of Scandinavian glass on 1stDibs.
- What is Scandinavian design?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertSeptember 11, 2019
Scandinavian design, associated with the countries of Northern Europe, is characterized by simplicity, functionality and beauty,
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Because Scandinavian design focuses on craftsmanship and clean lines, it is a style that lasts the test of time. Designed to maximize light and focusing on minimalism and functionality, it is very aesthetically pleasing.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022A traditional Scandinavian rug is called a rya or rye. With their shag knotted wool pile, these rugs originally served as blankets for 15th-century sailors. The rugs gained popularity in the U.S. and around the world in the 1980s. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of vintage rya rugs.
- What are Scandinavian rya rugs?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022Scandinavian rya rugs are accent rugs that have a hand-knotted high shag pile usually made of wool. Originally, the rugs served as bedding for sailors, but they became popular decorative accents in the U.S. in the 1970s. Shop a variety of rya rugs on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Scandinavian style refers to a movement in furniture design that is characterized by simplicity and functionality. Scandinavian modernists tended to focus on clean, simple lines. Scandinavian design is minimalist and devoid of clutter. Find a variety of Scandinavian modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes. While the gem has always been a mainstay in jewelry, there was a boom in demand for pearl pieces in the 1950s. The style at the time was black-and-white-chic, and pearls were an excellent accompaniment to pieces like the classic little black dress. Shop a collection of expertly vetted pearl jewelry from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024Bold, clean lines and simple, sturdy symmetry help define what Scandinavian modern design looks like. For furniture, designers working in this style often use native woods such as pine, ash and beech, giving pieces a light color palette. The emphasis of Scandinavian modern design is on functionality over ornamentation, so most furnishings have little to no decorative embellishment. Some iconic examples of Scandinavian modern design include Arne Jacobsen's Ant chair, Greta Magnusson-Grossman's Grasshopper table lamp, Alvar Aalto's Stool 60, Poul Henningsen's Artichoke lamp and Hans J. Wegner's Wishbone chair. On 1stDibs, explore a wide variety of Scandinavian modern furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertAugust 2, 2023
There isn’t much of a difference between Nordic and Scandinavian design in that when it comes to furniture and decor, the descriptors “Nordic” and “Scandinavian” are often used interchangeably. The term Scandinavia is primarily used to refer to Denmark, Norway and Sweden. (It is sometimes inclusive of Iceland and Finland, too.) The Nordic region of the world also includes the likes of Norway, Denmark, and Sweden as well as Iceland, Finland, Greenland, the Faroe Islands and Åland.
Scandinavian modernism is a warm and organic iteration of modernist design that chiefly originated in Denmark, Sweden and Finland during the 1930s. It was introduced to the United States during the mid-20th century and had a profound influence on American mid-century modern design.
Scandinavian modernists are known for their emphasis on craftsmanship and use of natural materials such as ash, pine and beech. Scandi interiors are minimalist, bright and airy, and feature neutral palettes and classic shapes.
Characteristics of the work of such Scandinavian modernists such as Hans Wegner, Finn Juhl and Greta Magnusson Grossman include bold, clean lines and simple, sturdy symmetries. Finland produced a truly ingenious Scandinavian modern furniture designer in the architect Alvar Aalto, a master at melding function and artistic form in works like the Paimio chair, created in collaboration with his first wife, Aino. Yet Finnish glassware was pre-eminent, crafted in expressive, sculptural designs by Tapio Wirkkala and Timo Sarpaneva.
For design enthusiasts all over the world, the promotion of functionality and simplicity associated with Scandinavian modernism and Nordic design continues to prove irresistible.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 30, 2023Some popular watches for men during the 1950s were the Rolex Submariner, the Enicar Sherpa Dive, the Breitling Navitimer, Omega, Constellation and the Rolex GMT-Master. Rolex, Timex, Orvin, Tower and Elgin were among the top watchmakers for women during the decade. On 1stDibs, find a collection of antique, vintage and contemporary watches.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024The clothing style in the 1950s was well tailored and classic. For women, dresses with padded busts, cinched waists and hips, and full circle skirts were popular, and the collared button-up shirt dress came into fashion during the decade. Men tended to wear suits in neutral gray, dark blue and brown colors made out of easy-to-care-for synthetic fabrics. Straight-cut double-breasted blazers were commonly worn for casual occasions. On 1stDibs, explore a variety of vintage clothing from the 1950s.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 21, 2023In the 1950s, several diamond cuts were popular. They included the brilliant round cut, the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. Rings that featured a large central stone flanked by smaller baguettes were also trendy during the decade. Find a collection of vintage diamond jewelry on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 6, 2023There were a few popular diamond cuts in the 1950s. One was the brilliant round cut, which is still common today due to its simple shape and prominent sparkle. Other favorite cuts of the decade included the Asscher cut, the emerald cut and the marquise cut. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of engagement rings.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 27, 2023In the 1950s, a Chanel bag was priced between $200 and $300. The iconic Chanel 2.55 bag cost $220 when first introduced in February 1955. Accounting for inflation, that works out to around $2,536 in today's money. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of Chanel bags from some of the world's top boutiques.
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