What is an executive desk?

An executive desk is a desk often found in the offices of C-suite executives and other professionals. Compared to a standard writing desk, an executive desk is typically larger. Many feature ornate details and/or rare materials, like exotic hardwoods. Although designs vary, most executive desks have a pedestal design with a center space that provides legroom positioned between stacked drawers. Find a diverse assortment of desks on 1stDibs.

What watches were popular in 1950s?

Some 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.

What was the clothing style in the 1950s?

The 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.

What is 1950s furniture called?

1950s furniture is called vintage furniture. Some pieces produced during this period may be considered mid-century modern based on their characteristics. Mid-century modern design refers to the variety of modernism that rose to prominence in the 1940s and ’50s. It displays many of the characteristics of the earlier versions of modernism, including simple forms and a focus on functionality. Other traits common in mid-century modern furniture include unadorned silhouettes, clean lines and mixed materials, emphasizing wood, wool, steel and plastic. On 1stDibs, explore a large collection of 1950s furniture.

Were pearls popular in the 1950s?

Yes. 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.

How much was a Chanel bag in the 1950s?

In 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.

What were the popular diamond cuts in the 1950s?

There 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.

What is the 1950s furniture style called?

The best-known 1950s furniture style is called mid-century modern. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three phrases that describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style emerged primarily in the years following World War II through creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Mid-century modern designers combined natural and human-made materials, such as teak, rosewood and oak woods as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. Some well-known mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of mid-century modern furniture.

What diamond cuts were popular in the 1950s?

In 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.

Which artist became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s?

Frank Stella is the artist who became famous for his series of black paintings in the late 1950s and early 1960s. These works featured bands of black paint separated by thin, precise stripes of bare canvas. At a time when contemporary painting was all about wild gestures, thick paint and formal abandon, the “Black Paintings” created a sensation. Explore a range of Frank Stella art on 1stDibs.

1950s Executive Desk

Walnut Boomerang Desk

Edward Wormley For Dunbar Desk

Floating Top Desk

Mid Century Rosewood Mahogany Desk

Curved executive desk by Jules Wabbes, Belgium 1950's

$37,565

H 29.93 in W 98.43 in D 36.23 in

Curved executive desk by Jules Wabbes, Belgium 1950's

By Mobilier Universel, Jules Wabbes

Located in Brussels, BE

Mobilier Universel in the late 1950s, this desk embodies structured charm. Its sturdy chrome-plated steel

Category

Vintage 1950s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Widdicomb Kneehole Executive Desk Cherry Brass Mid Century 1950s

$2,750

H 29.5 in W 50 in D 26 in

Widdicomb Kneehole Executive Desk Cherry Brass Mid Century 1950s

By Widdicomb Furniture Co.

Located in Forest Grove, PA

An unmarked Widdicomb kneehole executive desk. Excellent wood choice, book matched throughout

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

1950's MCM Edward Wormley for Dunbar Large Executive Desk - Walnut & Rosewood

$6,370

H 29.25 in W 74.75 in D 38.5 in

1950's MCM Edward Wormley for Dunbar Large Executive Desk - Walnut & Rosewood

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in St. Louis, MO

Make a statement with this large Mid-Century Modern original finish executive desk designed by

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Ico Parisi "Urio" Executive Desk, MIM Roma, Italy 1950s

$4,108

H 29.14 in W 70.87 in D 35.44 in

Ico Parisi "Urio" Executive Desk, MIM Roma, Italy 1950s

By MIM Roma, Ico Parisi

Located in Roma, IT

Extraordinary and incredibly rare "Urio" executive desk designed by the mastery of Ico Parisi and

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Aluminum, Steel, Metal

Expertly Restored - Danish Modern Executive Teak Desk with Raised Edges 1950's

$4,500

H 28.5 in W 59 in D 29.5 in

Expertly Restored - Danish Modern Executive Teak Desk with Raised Edges 1950's

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Danish modern executive teak desk with raises edges

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Executive Model DoMore Swivel Desk Office Chair Model 616 c 1950/1960's

$1,250

H 38.5 in W 22 in D 28 in

Executive Model DoMore Swivel Desk Office Chair Model 616 c 1950/1960's

By General Fireproofing Company

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional Industrial, Mid Century swivel office, desk chair by The DoMore Chair Company. The

Category

Mid-20th Century American Industrial Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Large executive desk, design Vittorio Dassi, Italy, 1950s

$9,978

H 30.71 in W 70.87 in D 35.04 in

Large executive desk, design Vittorio Dassi, Italy, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Napoli, IT

This is a large executive desk that is featured in several furniture magazines.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk Set by EPMC, 1950s

$20,000 / set

H 30.52 in W 72.84 in D 34.65 in

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk Set by EPMC, 1950s

By Esposizione Permanente mobili Cantù

Located in Buccinasco, MI

An exceptional and increasingly rare Italian Mid-Century executive desk set, produced in the 1950s

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Wood

Large Executive Desk by Anonima Castelli, Italy 1950s

$2,817

H 30.32 in W 35.44 in D 75.6 in

Large Executive Desk by Anonima Castelli, Italy 1950s

By Anonima Castelli

Located in Roma, IT

desk attributed to Anonima Castelli, Bologna, dating from the late 1940s to early 1950s—a period in

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Modern Desks

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Executive Desk by Friso Kramer & Coen de Vries, 1950s

$2,450

H 30 in W 78.75 in D 39.375 in

Mid-Century Executive Desk by Friso Kramer & Coen de Vries, 1950s

By Coen de Vries, Friso Kramer, EEKA

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A striking example of Dutch mid-century modern design, this executive desk was designed by Friso

Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Steel

Mid-Century Large Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

$5,634

H 32.88 in W 73.63 in D 35.83 in

Mid-Century Large Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Large Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, 1950s

$3,756Sale Price|20% Off

H 29.14 in W 77.17 in D 34.26 in

Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, 1950s

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Magnificent and ultra rare Mid-Century Modern executive desk. Design by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

Category

Vintage 1950s Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

1950s Walnut and cane executive desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture

$6,500

H 29 in W 72 in D 38 in

1950s Walnut and cane executive desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Cedar Falls, IA

1950s. Massive desk with executive proportions. Large 72"x38" desktop surface with impressive walnut

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk designed by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

$11,739

H 30.71 in W 76.58 in D 36.23 in

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk designed by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

This spectacular desk was designed by Vittorio Dassi in the 1950s, probably with the artistic

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Frode Holm For Illums Bolighus Mahogany Executive Desk With Brass Hardware

$9,400

H 29.5 in W 62.75 in D 31.25 in

Frode Holm For Illums Bolighus Mahogany Executive Desk With Brass Hardware

By Frode Holm

Located in New York, NY

Amazing 1950's mahogany and brass executive desk designed by Frode Holm for Illums Bolighus, fully

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$2,975Sale Price|50% Off

H 29 in W 84 in D 42 in

1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Lafayette, IN

Grand style and grand scale combine in this wonderful executive desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid Century Executive Desk designed by Vittorio Dassi in 1950s

$12,867

H 31.11 in W 80.32 in D 33.08 in

Italian Mid Century Executive Desk designed by Vittorio Dassi in 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Stunning desk designed by Vitoro Dassi in the 1950s, featuring a black glass top beneath which is a

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid century Executive Table Desk attributed to Osvaldo Borsani , 1950s

$13,101

H 31.5 in W 68.51 in D 32.68 in

Italian Mid century Executive Table Desk attributed to Osvaldo Borsani , 1950s

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Mid-century Italian desk attributed to Osvaldo Borsani, crafted in the 1950s. This elegant piece

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

1950s Florence Knoll Double Pedestal Walnut Chrome and Laminate Executive Desk

$4,950 / item

H 29 in W 32 in D 66 in

1950s Florence Knoll Double Pedestal Walnut Chrome and Laminate Executive Desk

By Florence Knoll, Knoll

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Listed for sale is a double pedestal desk, model 1503, designed by Florence Knoll and produced by

Category

Vintage 1960s American Modern Desks

Materials

Chrome

Italian Mid Century Executive Desk Table designed by Vittorio Dassi in 1950s

$8,071

H 31.11 in W 66.54 in D 33.08 in

Italian Mid Century Executive Desk Table designed by Vittorio Dassi in 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Stylish Executive desk designed by Vittorio Dassi in 1950s,truly unique design characterized by a

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Glass, Teak

Italian Mid Century Executive Table Desk designed by Paolo Buffa in 1950s

$12,795

H 30.71 in W 67.33 in D 29.53 in

Italian Mid Century Executive Table Desk designed by Paolo Buffa in 1950s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Elegant Executive Desk designed by Paolo Buffa in the 1950s. The desk top is characterized by the

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Modern Desks

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Executive Swivel Office Chair by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, 1950s

$2,400Sale Price|20% Off

H 35.5 in W 28.5 in D 28.5 in

Mid Century Executive Swivel Office Chair by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, 1950s

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Chino Hills, CA

a classic executive desk. Alternatively, envision it in a modern minimalist setting where its form

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Metal

Jacques Quinet Desk

$85,000

H 29.5 in W 71.25 in D 27.63 in

Jacques Quinet Desk

By Jacques Quinet

Located in Beverly Hills, CA

Incredible Jacques Quinet Executive desk, circa 1950s Rich caramel leather with contrast open

Category

Vintage 1950s French Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Leather, Walnut

Recent Sales

Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno Milano, Italy, 1950s

Unavailable

H 30.32 in W 122.05 in D 33.47 in

Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno Milano, Italy, 1950s

By Tecno, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Wilnis, UT

Beautiful large executive desk designed by Osvaldo Borsani, manufactured by Tecno Milano in Italy

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Milo Baughman Executive Desk with Floating Top, Glenn of California, 1950s

Unavailable

H 30 in W 58 in D 28 in

Milo Baughman Executive Desk with Floating Top, Glenn of California, 1950s

By Milo Baughman, Glenn of California

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Quintessential California Modern executive desk in walnut veneer with drawers and open front in an

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Walnut, Wood

Gio Ponti: Monumental Executive Desk in Reeded Walnut and Brass, Italy 1950s

Unavailable

H 31 in W 63 in D 32 in

Gio Ponti: Monumental Executive Desk in Reeded Walnut and Brass, Italy 1950s

By Gio Ponti

Located in New York, NY

Gio Ponti (1891-1979) A rare and important executive desk by Gio Ponti, in dramatically carved and

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Italian Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno, 1950s

Unavailable

H 29.93 in W 86.62 in D 37.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Italian Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno, 1950s

By Osvaldo Borsani, Tecno

Located in Milano, IT

Mid-Century Modern Osvaldo Borsani executive desk for Tecno. Rosewood top and adjustable shelf on

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Aluminum

Danish Teak Executive Desk, 1950s

Unavailable

H 29.93 in W 59.65 in D 30.12 in

Danish Teak Executive Desk, 1950s

By Svend Åge Madsen

Located in Nyborg, DK

This Danish executive desk from the 1950s features 8 drawers (2 lockable) with solid teak orange

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Beech, Teak

1950s Executive Desk by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma

Sold

H 28.75 in W 82.68 in D 39.38 in

1950s Executive Desk by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma

By MIM Roma, Ico Parisi

Located in Rome, IT

Italy, 1958, executive “Terni series” desk by Ico Parisi for MIM Roma Exotic wood with metal

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Metal

Sven Ivar Executive Desk

Sold

H 29 in W 83 in D 39.5 in

Sven Ivar Executive Desk

By Dokka Mobler, Sven Ivar Dysthe

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Amazing 1950s Executive desk by Norwegian designer Sven Ivar Dysthe for Dokka Møbler. Teak Body

Category

Vintage 1950s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Chrome

Italian Rosewood Executive Desk by Dassi

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H 30 in W 71 in D 33.75 in

Italian Rosewood Executive Desk by Dassi

By Paolo Buffa, Dassi

Located in Miami, FL

An important Italian circa 1950's executive desk attributed to Paolo Buffa for Dassi. Inset

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Desks

Executive American desk, 1950's

Sold

H 29 in W 71 in D 30 in

Executive American desk, 1950's

Located in Stratford, CT

Chrome legs, 3 drawers.

Category

20th Century American Desks

Italian 1950's Executive Walnut Desk

Sold

H 31 in W 72 in D 30 in

Italian 1950's Executive Walnut Desk

Located in New York, NY

A sharp walnut and brass 3-drawer desk with sculptural legs capped off with brass sabots. The

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Desks

Materials

Brass

Italian 1950's Executive Walnut Desk

Sold

H 31 in W 72 in D 30 in

Italian 1950's Executive Walnut Desk

Located in New York, NY

A sharp walnut and brass 3-drawer desk with sculptural legs capped off with brass sabots. The

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Desks

Materials

Brass

Exceptional 1950s Italian Executive Desk.

Sold

H 31 in W 73 in D 34 in

Exceptional 1950s Italian Executive Desk.

Located in Miami, FL

Rare 1950s rosewood executive desk with inset burgundy glass top floating on seven-drawer double

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Executive Desk by Hadar Schmidt, 1950s-1960s

Sold

H 29.93 in W 93.31 in D 38.98 in

Executive Desk by Hadar Schmidt, 1950s-1960s

Located in Greding, DE

Scandinavian desk on black tapered legs, with four lockable drawers and a pentagonal large tabletop

Category

Vintage 1950s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Executive Desk Attributed to Silvio Cavatorta, Italy, 1950s

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H 30.71 in W 60.24 in D 31.5 in

Executive Desk Attributed to Silvio Cavatorta, Italy, 1950s

By Silvio Cavatorta

Located in Greding, DE

Elegant executive desk on slightly angled legs. The writing surface is covered with a green-tinted

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Executive Walnut Desk by Harvey Probber, C. 1950s

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H 28.5 in W 84 in D 37 in

Executive Walnut Desk by Harvey Probber, C. 1950s

By Harvey Probber

Located in Westport, CT

A large-scale desk executed in walnut, designed by Harvey Probber, circa 1950-1959. Completely

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Nickel

Executive Desk by Dassi, Italy, 1950s

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H 30.71 in W 71.26 in L 30.71 in

Executive Desk by Dassi, Italy, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Greding, DE

Large executive desk with four drawers by Dassi with its original thick glass top, supported by

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Glass, Wood

Danish Mahogany Executive Writing Desk by Ole Wanscher, c. 1950's

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H 30.25 in W 67 in D 28 in

Danish Mahogany Executive Writing Desk by Ole Wanscher, c. 1950's

By Ole Wanscher

Located in Norwalk, CT

desk by Ole Wanscher. The simple form is perfectly proportioned, with elegant squared legs supporting

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Wood

Baker Furniture Georgian Walnut Leather Top Executive Desk, 1950s

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H 30 in W 72 in D 36 in

Baker Furniture Georgian Walnut Leather Top Executive Desk, 1950s

By Baker Furniture Company

Located in South Bend, IN

A stately Georgian or Chippendale style executive desk By Baker Furniture USA, 1950s

Category

Vintage 1950s American Georgian Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

1950s Nanna Ditzel Rosewood Executive Desk by Søren Willadsen

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H 27.96 in W 68.9 in D 29.53 in

1950s Nanna Ditzel Rosewood Executive Desk by Søren Willadsen

By Søren Willadsen, Nanna Ditzel

Located in Knebel, DK

Elegant freestanding executive desk in rosewood designed by Nanna Ditzel in 1955 for Søren

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Rosewood

1950s Cees Braakman Pastoe L-Shaped Executive Desk, Netherlands

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H 31.11 in W 31.11 in D 70.87 in

1950s Cees Braakman Pastoe L-Shaped Executive Desk, Netherlands

By Pastoe, Cees Braakman

Located in London, GB

Large teak executive’s desk in an L-shape with useful cabinet with black laminate doors. Designed

Category

20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Stainless Steel

Stunning Rosewood Danish Modern Executive Desk, 1950s

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H 28.5 in W 60 in D 30.5 in

Stunning Rosewood Danish Modern Executive Desk, 1950s

By Arne Vodder

Located in New York, NY

Stunning rosewood Danish modern executive desk, 1950s. Fully restored with gorgeous rosewood grain

Category

Vintage 1950s Canadian Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Rosewood

Mid-Century Modern Osvaldo Borsani Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1950s

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H 29.93 in W 86.03 in D 36.82 in

Mid-Century Modern Osvaldo Borsani Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1950s

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern Osvaldo Borsani executive desk for Tecno, Italy 1950s.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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H 31.5 in W 70.87 in D 34.65 in

Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi, Dassi et Figli

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Very rare executive desk designed by Vittorio Dassi in the 1950s. Its structure is characterized

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Abraham A. Patijn Executive Desk Poly Z Serie 1950s

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H 29.53 in W 56.7 in L 29.53 in

Abraham A. Patijn Executive Desk Poly Z Serie 1950s

By Abraham A. Patijn, Zijlstra

Located in Den Haag, NL

Wonderful dark Walnut executive office desk. From the wanted Poly Z serie looks like the top is

Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Osvaldo Borsani ‘T95’ Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1950s

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H 29.93 in W 70.87 in D 47.25 in

Osvaldo Borsani ‘T95’ Executive Desk for Tecno, Italy, 1950s

By Tecno, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Hellouw, NL

the essence of Italian post-war modernism. Produced by Tecno in the 1950s, this desk embodies the

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Teak

Italian Midcentury Rosewood Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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H 30.71 in W 70.87 in D 35.04 in

Italian Midcentury Rosewood Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi, Dassi Lissone

Located in Traversetolo, IT

This stunning and impressive Italian executive desk is one of the masterpieces of the Italian

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Floating Top Walnut Executive 1950s Desk

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H 29 in W 71 in D 35.5 in

Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Floating Top Walnut Executive 1950s Desk

By Herman Miller, George Nelson

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

For your consideration is a marvelous, office desk, with five drawers, by George Nelson for Herman

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Walnut

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk Paolo Buffa Style, 1950s

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H 30.71 in W 83.08 in D 41.34 in

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk Paolo Buffa Style, 1950s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Elegant Italian Desk of the 50s designed in the manner of Paolo Buffa. It has a soft design given

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Sculptural Arched Teak Executive Desk with Rear Bookshelf by Svend Madsen, 1950s

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H 29 in W 58 in D 28 in

Sculptural Arched Teak Executive Desk with Rear Bookshelf by Svend Madsen, 1950s

By Sigurd Hansen Møbelfabrik, Svend Åge Madsen

Located in New York, NY

Sculptural arched teak executive desk with rear bookshelf by Svend Madsen, 1950s. Fully restored

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Teak

Rare Italian Executive Desk with Floating Glass Top by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

Sold

H 32 in W 67 in D 34 in

Rare Italian Executive Desk with Floating Glass Top by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This rare Italian executive desk designed by Italian designer Vittorio Dassi is a model type

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Glass, Rosewood

Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk Attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, 1950s

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H 30.32 in W 66.93 in L 30.32 in

Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk Attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, 1950s

By Guglielmo Ulrich

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Extraordinary executive desk designed in the 1950s and attributed to the famous Italian architect

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Executive/Physician Desk by Vittorio Dassi (circa 1950s)

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H 30.71 in W 71.66 in D 35.44 in

Italian Mid-Century Executive/Physician Desk by Vittorio Dassi (circa 1950s)

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in London, GB

Impressive physician's desk by Vittorio Dassi, made in Italy in the middle of the 20th century

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Mid-Century Walnut Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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H 29.93 in W 78.75 in D 35.44 in

Italian Mid-Century Walnut Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi, Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

This Executive desk has a stylish and unusual shape that gives it an impressive appearance, all

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Italian Midcentury Executive Rosewood Desk and Chair by Dassi, 1950s

Sold

H 31.5 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in

Italian Midcentury Executive Rosewood Desk and Chair by Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Excellent Italian Executive desk designed by Vittorio and Plinio Dassi in 1950. glass top, eight

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Robert Donovan Walnut Executive Desk, circa 1950s - 1960s

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H 29.5 in W 81 in D 37 in

Robert Donovan Walnut Executive Desk, circa 1950s - 1960s

Located in New York, NY

Robert Donovan walnut executive desk was commissioned by the wife of the president of Liberty Tool

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Mid-Century Modern Vittorio Dassi Executive Desk, 1950s

Sold

H 31.11 in W 70.87 in D 35.04 in

Mid-Century Modern Vittorio Dassi Executive Desk, 1950s

By Dassi

Located in Brussels, BE

Mid-Century Modern Vittorio Dassi Executive Desk, 1950s

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Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk, Guglielmo Ulrich, 1950s

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H 30.12 in W 67.72 in D 33.47 in

Italian Midcentury Walnut Executive Desk, Guglielmo Ulrich, 1950s

By Guglielmo Ulrich

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Outstanding Italian midcentury executive walnut desk. Very well designed and attributable to

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Mid-Century Modern Rosewood Executive Desk by Kai Kristiansen, Model 70, 1950s

Sold

H 28.35 in W 67.72 in L 28.35 in

Mid-Century Modern Rosewood Executive Desk by Kai Kristiansen, Model 70, 1950s

By Kai Kristiansen

Located in Wrocław, Poland

This stunning vintage rosewood desk is a fantastic example of Kai Kristiansen style, one of the

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Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Italian Midcentury Mahogany Executive Desk by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, 1950s

Sold

H 31.11 in W 72.05 in L 31.11 in

Italian Midcentury Mahogany Executive Desk by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, 1950s

By La Permanente Mobili Cantù

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Amazing and unique design for this Italian executive Desk of the 1950s, attributed to La Permanente

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk with Dattilo by Osvaldo Borsani, 1950s

Sold

H 30.52 in W 72.84 in D 34.65 in

Italian Mid-Century Executive Desk with Dattilo by Osvaldo Borsani, 1950s

By La Permanente Mobili Cantù, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Traversetolo, IT

To your attention this important and remarkable Italian executive Desk of the 1950s, very rare

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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Iconic 1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Leopold Desk Co.

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H 30 in W 74 in D 33 in

Iconic 1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Leopold Desk Co.

By Lehigh Leopold

Located in Lafayette, IN

This phenomenal executive desk is fresh from a light refurbishment and is a real looker

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Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Italian Mid-Century Office Set with Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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H 30.91 in W 74.02 in D 35.44 in

Italian Mid-Century Office Set with Executive Desk by Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi, Dassi Mobili Moderni

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Presenting to you a breathtaking and exceedingly rare Italian Executive Desk of the 1950s

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Borge Morgensen Teak Executive Desk

Sold

H 28.75 in W 57.5 in D 28.5 in

Borge Morgensen Teak Executive Desk

By Børge Mogensen

Located in New York, NY

1950s teak executive desk designed by Borge Morgensen for Soborg Mobler. Fully restored, a few

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Ico Parisi for MIM Roma, Desk Executive, Italy, Mid-Century Italy 1950s

Sold

H 29.53 in W 70.87 in D 35.44 in

Ico Parisi for MIM Roma, Desk Executive, Italy, Mid-Century Italy 1950s

By Ico Parisi

Located in Roma, IT

Desk designed by Luisa and Ico Parisi made in 1958 for MIM (Mobili Italiani Moderni) this desk

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Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Boomerang T-96 Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno Milano, 1950s

Sold

H 29.93 in W 118.12 in D 47.25 in

Boomerang T-96 Executive Desk by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno Milano, 1950s

Located in Greding, DE

"Boomerang" desk designed by Osvaldo Borsani for Tecno with rounded table top and rotating return

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Wood

Italian Midcentury Executive Desk with Chairs, Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

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H 31.5 in W 71.26 in D 32.29 in

Italian Midcentury Executive Desk with Chairs, Vittorio Dassi, 1950s

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Traversetolo, IT

This stunning Italian executive desk is a masterpiece designed and attributed to Vittorio Dassi, a

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Brass

Large 'Model 207' Executive Teak Desk by Arne Vodder for Sibast Furniture, 1950s

Sold

H 28.75 in W 79.53 in D 35.44 in

Large 'Model 207' Executive Teak Desk by Arne Vodder for Sibast Furniture, 1950s

By Arne Vodder, Sibast

Located in Antwerpen, VAN

Large executive desk designed by Arne Vodder in the 1950s. This is ‘Model 207’ made of teak wood

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Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Tecno Executive Desk in Walnut and Cast Aluminum by Osvaldo Borsani, Italy 1950s

Sold

H 29.14 in W 86.62 in D 37.01 in

Tecno Executive Desk in Walnut and Cast Aluminum by Osvaldo Borsani, Italy 1950s

By Osvaldo Borsani, Tecno

Located in Hellouw, NL

This Italian 1950s desk, which can also serve as a table, exudes an unprecedented class and

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Aluminum

Ico Parisi for MIM Roma, Desk Executive, Italy, Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

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H 28.35 in W 70.87 in D 35.44 in

Ico Parisi for MIM Roma, Desk Executive, Italy, Mid-Century Modern, 1950s

By Ico Parisi, MIM Roma

Located in Roma, IT

Desk designed by Luisa and Ico Parisi in 1958 for MIM (Modern Italian Furniture) this desk combines

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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Bernt Petersen Danish Mahogany Writing Desk, circa 1950s

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H 29.14 in W 75.6 in L 29.14 in

Bernt Petersen Danish Mahogany Writing Desk, circa 1950s

By Rud Rasmussen, Bernt Petersen

Located in London, England

Bernt Petersen Mahogany Writing Desk, circa 1950s Four drawer executive desk produced in

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Vintage 1950s Danish Scandinavian Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Ico Parisi for MIM Roma Executive Chair, Italy 1950s

Sold

H 35.44 in W 26.78 in D 27.96 in

Ico Parisi for MIM Roma Executive Chair, Italy 1950s

By MIM Roma, Ico Parisi

Located in Naples, IT

A modern swivel desk chair on castors from the Temi series, an icon of 1950s Italy designed by the

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

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Metal

1950s Osvaldo Borsani Italian Desk for Tecno Model T96

Sold

H 29.14 in W 98.43 in D 51.19 in

1950s Osvaldo Borsani Italian Desk for Tecno Model T96

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

1950s walnut executive desk model T96 ‘Boomerang’ designed by italian Osvaldo Borsani and produced

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Italian Modern Desk Attributed to Gio Ponti, 1950s

Sold

H 32 in W 75 in D 35.5 in

Italian Modern Desk Attributed to Gio Ponti, 1950s

By Gio Ponti

Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL

Italian Modern Desk attributed to Gio Ponti 1950s Raised surface writing or executive desk with

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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Brass

Midcentury Mahogany Desk and Bookcase by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, 1950s

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H 31.11 in W 72.05 in D 28.75 in

Midcentury Mahogany Desk and Bookcase by La Permanente Mobili Cantù, 1950s

By La Permanente Mobili Cantù

Located in Traversetolo, IT

Amazing and unique design for this Italian office set of the 1950s, composed by the executive Desk

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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Milo Baughman for Glenn of California Floating Desk

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H 29.5 in W 58 in D 28 in

Milo Baughman for Glenn of California Floating Desk

By Milo Baughman, Glenn of California

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Classic California design, c.1950s, a walnut executive desk with a broad floating writing surface

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Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Desks

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1950s Executive Desk in Mahogany by Ico Parisi for MIM Roma

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H 28.75 in W 82.68 in D 39.38 in

1950s Executive Desk in Mahogany by Ico Parisi for MIM Roma

By MIM Roma, Ico Parisi

Located in Rome, IT

Italy, 1958, executive “Terni series” desk by Ico Parisi for MIM Roma Stained Mahogany veneer with

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

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Executive Desk Designed by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma, Italy, 1950s

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H 28.35 in W 82.68 in D 39.38 in

Executive Desk Designed by Ico Parisi for Mim Roma, Italy, 1950s

By MIM Roma, Ico Parisi

Located in Almelo, NL

Ico Parisi For MIM Roma Executive Desk, Italy, 1950s. Executive Desk Designed By Ico Parisi For

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Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks

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Metal

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1950s Executive Desk For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more with respect to the 1950s executive desk you’re looking for at 1stDibs. Each 1950s executive desk for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using wood, metal and walnut. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer 1950s executive desk, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. Each 1950s executive desk bearing Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern or Georgian hallmarks is very popular. George Nelson, Edward Wormley and Dunbar each produced at least one beautiful 1950s executive desk that is worth considering.

How Much is a 1950s Executive Desk?

Prices for a 1950s executive desk can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $500 and can go as high as $65,000, while the average can fetch as much as $6,203.

A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, 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.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. 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.

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, 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 — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.