What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

What does mid century modern mean?

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

What is mid century modern furniture?

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

What years are mid century modern?

The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables , chairs , desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple. Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller . 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. Knoll became 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 soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture , and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too .Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Why is mid century modern popular?

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?

Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

What color wood is mid-century modern?

There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Is a tulip table mid century modern?

Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Is Art Deco mid-century modern?

Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.

What defines a mid-century modern desk?

Mid-century modern desks (roughly 1940s-1960s) are defined by clean lines, tapered legs and natural wood tones like teak, walnut and rosewood, often with minimal hardware.

Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?

Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What year is mid-century modern furniture?

There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What defines mid-century modern home decor?

Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?

Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames , Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Modern Advertising

Mid Century Poster Design

Advertising Art

Tobacco Advertising

Advertising Sculpture

1960s Advertising

Original Vintage French Advertising Poster

Advertising Tin

Italian Advertising

Italian mid-century modern advertising sign Philips in metal, 1950s

$1,920

Italian mid-century modern advertising sign Philips in metal, 1950s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern advertising sign Philips in metal, 1950s Rectangular wall-mounted advertising sign made of enameled sheet metal.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Materials

Metal

MId-Century Modern Vintage PET Radio Evaporated Milk Advertising

$116Sale Price|20% Off

MId-Century Modern Vintage PET Radio Evaporated Milk Advertising

Located in Chula Vista, CA

For your consideration a vintage PET evaporated milk radio. Vintage mId-century modern advertising, Chrome plated antenna, tested and currently working.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Scientific Instruments

Materials

Plastic

1950s Modern Advertising Letter Opener Hill Desk Accessory

$80Sale Price|20% Off

1950s Modern Advertising Letter Opener Hill Desk Accessory

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Mid-Century Modern Advertising Letter Opener by Hill.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Letter Openers

Materials

Metal

Italian mid-century modern wooden advertising sign, 1970s

$240

Italian mid-century modern wooden advertising sign, 1970s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern wooden advertising sign, 1970s Double-sided rectangular advertising poster applied to a rigid wooden panel and fitted with an upper hole and metal chain fo...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Wood, Paper

Vintage Sunshine Beer Advertising Poster, Mid-Century Modern, 1960s

$150

Vintage Sunshine Beer Advertising Poster, Mid-Century Modern, 1960s

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage Sunshine Beer Advertising Poster, 1960's Sunshine Brewing Company, Reading, Pennsylvania "in good as found vintage condition" "some, discoloration, bends and imperfections" ...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Mid-Century Modern Folk Art Eno Antacid Advertising Sign

$1,495

Mid-Century Modern Folk Art Eno Antacid Advertising Sign

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

This advertising sign was made during the 1960s in the Mid-Century Modern style and likely originates from South Africa.

Category

Mid-20th Century South African Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Plastic, Wood

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Advertising Cabinet Leukoplast Beiersdorf, 1950s

$685Sale Price|20% Off

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Advertising Cabinet Leukoplast Beiersdorf, 1950s

Located in Amsterdam, NL

Wonderful and rare Mid-Century Modern Vintage cabinet. Striking German design from the 1950s. Beech frame with original milk glass with decorative print and glass. Original metal ...

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Vintage Metal Advertising Sign with Light, Mid-Century Modern, UK

$2,571

Vintage Metal Advertising Sign with Light, Mid-Century Modern, UK

Located in Barcelona, ES

Vintage metal advertising sign with light. By unknown manufacturer, circa 1990. In original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use, preserving a beautiful patina. Ma...

Category

1990s British Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Bottle Shaped Ice Bucket Tia Maria Advertising

$295

Mid-Century Modern Bottle Shaped Ice Bucket Tia Maria Advertising

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Fabulous advertising ice bucket. Tia Maria a Jamaican liqueur. Authentic in a copy of the original bottle just a lot bigger. Insulated to insure cold. In excellent vintage condition ...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Barware

Materials

Plastic

Mid-Century American Monumental Advertising Baseball Bat

$2,250

Mid-Century American Monumental Advertising Baseball Bat

Located in Queens, NY

American advertising display sign of an over-sized ash wood baseball bat with an engraved wood burned inscription and a leather wrapped handle.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Materials

Leather, Wood, Ash

American Mid Century Modern McCoy Schering Advertising Ceramic Catch It all Bowl

$225

American Mid Century Modern McCoy Schering Advertising Ceramic Catch It all Bowl

Located in San Diego, CA

American Mid century modern vintage McCoy Schering Advertising ceramic Tray catch it all , your feet must last a lifetime excellent condition.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Ceramic

Italian mid-century red modern graphic Ceat advertising sign, 1950s

$914

Italian mid-century red modern graphic Ceat advertising sign, 1950s

Located in MIlano, IT

Italian mid-century modern red graphic Ceat advertising sign, 1950s Rectangular aluminum sign or billboard.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Decorative Art

Materials

Aluminum

French Esso Advertising Print - Mid 20th Century Gasoline Poster

$175

French Esso Advertising Print - Mid 20th Century Gasoline Poster

Located in Seattle, WA

French advertising print for Esso, featuring a whimsical cartoon illustration of a smiling motorist driving a car with a playful, anthropomorphic design. The bold red Esso logo is p...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Emile DeschlerPhotos of Advertising- Original Photograph by Emile Deschler - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

$229

Photos of Advertising- Original Photograph by Emile Deschler - Mid-20th Century

By Emile Deschler

Located in Roma, IT

Photos of Advertising Studios is an Original Photograph realized by Emile Deschler (1910-1991). The b/w photo is in very good condition included a cardboard passpartout (26x37 cm). ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Photography

Materials

Photographic Paper

Mid Century Danish Design Furniture Advertising Posters by Paul Salomonsen

$1,500 / set

Mid Century Danish Design Furniture Advertising Posters by Paul Salomonsen

Located in New York, NY

Pair of fabulous black and white Danish design advertising posters photographed by Paul Salomonsen. One poster is of Arne Jacobsen's famous Swan Chair designed in 1958. The other i...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Mid-century Gold-Tone Reddy Kilowatt Advertising Tie Clip Pin

$192Sale Price / item|30% Off

Mid-century Gold-Tone Reddy Kilowatt Advertising Tie Clip Pin

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Mid-century Era men's tie bar features a Reddy Kilowatt crafted in gold-tone metal with vibrant red and cream enamel accents. The playful design showcases a character with a smiling ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Materials

Steel

Large French Mid-Century Advertising Ceramic Ashtray Green and Black 1950s

$395

Large French Mid-Century Advertising Ceramic Ashtray Green and Black 1950s

Located in Moreno Valley, CA

Large French Mid-Century Advertising Ceramic Ashtray for Soloval – Green & Black, circa 1950s–60s A bold and authentic French advertising ashtray from the mid-20th century, featu...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Ceramic

Mid-Century Original Vintage Swiss Advertising Poster Piatti BASLER RABATTMARKE

$1,200Sale Price|20% Off

Mid-Century Original Vintage Swiss Advertising Poster Piatti BASLER RABATTMARKE

By Celestino Piatti

Located in Melbourne, Victoria

Piatti's distinctive style is characterised by clean lines, bold colours, and a profound sense of harmony. Whether he was creating book covers, posters, or corporate logos, his desig...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper, Linen

Mid-Century Original French Advertising Poster, 'DD' Socks by Francis Martocq

$960Sale Price|20% Off

Mid-Century Original French Advertising Poster, 'DD' Socks by Francis Martocq

Located in Melbourne, Victoria

Mid-Century Original French Advertising Poster, 'DD' Socks by Francis Martocq This poster is typically French in its design and humour! A cute poster for a children-friendly space...

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Mid 20th Century Kodak English Advertising Enamel Sign For Train Rides

$1,283Sale Price|20% Off

Mid 20th Century Kodak English Advertising Enamel Sign For Train Rides

Located in Crespières, FR

This antique Kodak advertising sign is made of thick enamel in black, yellow and red colours. The colours are bright and shiny, with an good relief. The condition is fairly good co...

Category

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Embossed Dekalb Hybrid Corn Advertising Farm or Mercantile Sign

$899

Mid-Century Embossed Dekalb Hybrid Corn Advertising Farm or Mercantile Sign

By St. Thomas Metal Signs

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

This vintage sign was made by the St. Thomas Metal Sign Company of St. Thomas Ontario Canada and dates to approximately 1958 and done in the period Mid=Century Modern style. The sign...

Category

Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

1950's Classic Mid-Century General Tire Advertising Glass and Rubber Ashtray

$320

1950's Classic Mid-Century General Tire Advertising Glass and Rubber Ashtray

Located in Red Lion, PA

Mid-Century General Tire Advertising Glass and Rubber Ashtray This authentic 1950s General Tire promotional ashtray stands out as a pristine piece of mid-century modern automobilia ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Glass, Rubber

Mid-Century Hand Painted Bull's Head Butcher's Shop Advertising Wall Sculpture

$2,495

Mid-Century Hand Painted Bull's Head Butcher's Shop Advertising Wall Sculpture

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

This 1960s era molded fiberglass and hand painted bull's head is unsigned, but believed to be a generic advertising wall decoration from a butcher shop. This head is hand painted in ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Fiberglass

Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Sabena Modern Africa Belgian Airlines

$2,568

Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Sabena Modern Africa Belgian Airlines

By Gaston van den Eynde

Located in London, GB

Original vintage travel advertising poster - To Modern Africa issued by Sabena - featuring a colourful mid-century design by Gaston Vanden Eynde (1923-1983) depicting tall buildings ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Early 20th Century Butlins Lithograph Advertising Poster

$857Sale Price|20% Off

Early 20th Century Butlins Lithograph Advertising Poster

Located in London, GB

Early 20th century Butlins lithograph advertising poster A charming, fun, and rare example of a 1940s lithograph advertising poster for Butlins fair. Produced by Willsons, Printe...

Category

Vintage 1940s British Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Original Vintage Advertising Poster Finmar Fair Liberty Zero Midcentury Modern

$1,684

Original Vintage Advertising Poster Finmar Fair Liberty Zero Midcentury Modern

By Hans Schleger Zero

Located in London, GB

Original vintage advertising poster for the Liberty Finmar Fair exhibition held at the department store in London from 9-25 October on the Fourth Floor featuring a great mid-century ...

Category

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

To Live Long - Advertising Print - Half of 20th Century, Half of 20th Century

$400

To Live Long - Advertising Print - Half of 20th Century

Located in Roma, IT

To live long - Advertising Print is an original artwork realized in the half of 20th Century. A vintage mixed colored lithograph on which the advertising of iodized salts of the Fre...

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Materials

Lithograph

Large advertising letter

$542

Large advertising letter

Located in 'S-HERTOGENBOSCH, NL

Large advertising letter O with blue neon light. Created in acryl. Diameter: 84cm. Height: 13cm. Probably German, circa 1970.

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Glass, Acrylic

Chamberlain's Cough Remedy Advertising Poster - Early 20th Century Medicine Sign

$245

Chamberlain's Cough Remedy Advertising Poster - Early 20th Century Medicine Sign

Located in Seattle, WA

Offered here is an advertising poster for Chamberlain's Cough Remedy, a popular patent medicine from the late 19th and early 20th century.The bold design features a bright yellow bac...

Category

Early 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Vintage Banania advertising sculpture

$337

Vintage Banania advertising sculpture

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Rare plaster advertising sculpture for Banania Chicoray. Very cool decorative and collectible piece. Good overall condition Height: 65cm Width: 42cm Depth: 16cm Ref.: 26052109 *...

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Plaster

Vintage martini advertising statue, 1960s

$451

Vintage martini advertising statue, 1960s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Rare plaster advertising sculpture depicting a Martini Jockey sitting next to a martini sign on a wall holding a glass. Very cool decorative and collectible piece. There is a space...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Plaster

4 Vintage Advertising Posters Sunkist Framed

$490 / set

4 Vintage Advertising Posters Sunkist Framed

Located in Boca Raton, FL

Vintage mid century modern set of 4 advertising prints Sunkist.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Materials

Paper

Framed with 3 Advertising Blotters

$400

Framed with 3 Advertising Blotters

Located in Saint-Ouen, FR

Framed with 3 advertising blotters from the 20th century. Contact us before ordering to confirm product availability. Measures: H: 40 cm, W: 30 cm, D: 1 cm.

Category

Vintage 1950s European Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Bernard Villemot “Bally Kick” Fashion Advertising Poster

$2,200

Bernard Villemot “Bally Kick” Fashion Advertising Poster

By Bernard Villemot

Located in Chicago, IL

Large Bernard Villemot “Bally Kick” Fashion Advertising Poster in Black Frame Large framed reproduction of the iconic “Bally Kick” advertising poster by celebrated French artist Ber...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Glass, Paper

Original Ansells Advertising Pub Entrance Sign

$1,351

Original Ansells Advertising Pub Entrance Sign

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

Original Ansells Advertising Pub Entrance Sign This is an original Ansells Entrance Sign with the Squirrel and the Acorns Symbol,“Ansells The Better Beer,”a once well-known brand, h...

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Wood

Vintage Collector's Banania Advertising Figure - 20th

$560

Vintage Collector's Banania Advertising Figure - 20th

Located in Linkebeek, BE

Collector's Item - Home decoration This Banania brand advertising bust is made of resin and features the famous character in relief, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor decoration....

Category

20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Busts

Materials

Resin

Rare Charles Eames Herman Miller "Design of the Century" Advertising Poster

$895

Rare Charles Eames Herman Miller "Design of the Century" Advertising Poster

By Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An extremely rare Charles Eames "Design of the Century" advertising poster By Herman Miller USA, circa 1999 Measures: 25.13"W x 0.75"D x 37.13"H. Excellent condition.

Category

1990s American Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Oak, Paper

Rare Vintage Nokia Logo Advertising light sign

$1,142

Rare Vintage Nokia Logo Advertising light sign

Located in Meulebeke, BE

Rare wall-mounted advertising sign featuring the iconic Nokia logo, a symbol of innovation and reliability in the telecommunications industry. The bold design and vibrant colors ens...

Category

1990s Finnish Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Materials

Plastic

Ice Cream Advertising Sign, Funky Quirky Nostalgic

$1,185

Ice Cream Advertising Sign, Funky Quirky Nostalgic

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

Ice Cream Advertising Sign, Funky Quirky Nostalgic This is a classic mid century piece, on a trip to the seaside is the best treat. Here we are with a tall wooden ice cream advertis...

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Plywood

Oversized Chocolate Advertising Poster, Belgium, 1999

$250

Oversized Chocolate Advertising Poster, Belgium, 1999

Located in Saarbruecken, DE

Oversized chocolate advertising poster, Belgium, 1999. One of three very rare large advertising posters from the brand ‘Jacques Chocolate’ from Belgium. Good original condition. ...

Category

1990s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Original vintage advertising poster - 'Upravite rychle'

$1,054

Original vintage advertising poster - 'Upravite rychle'

Located in Petworth, West Sussex

An original vintage advertising poster from Czechoslavakia for sea fish. The names of the sea fish are tattoo'd all over his body - tuna, cod etc. A fun image from the 1950's using...

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Materials

Lithograph

1950's advertising figures by Christian Dior

$5,502 / set

1950's advertising figures by Christian Dior

By Christian Dior

Located in Milano, IT

3 beautiful painted plaster advertising figures in excellent original condition. Manufactured for Christian Dior, France 1930-1960.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Busts

Materials

Plaster

Vintage Gold Dollar Cigarettes Advertising Sculpture 1950s

$2,645

Vintage Gold Dollar Cigarettes Advertising Sculpture 1950s

Located in Berghuelen, DE

Vintage Gold Dollar Cigarettes Advertising Sculpture 1950s This old BAT (British American Tobacco) advertising figure made of wood and plaster advertising the cigarette brand "Gold ...

Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Vintage Kohler Antidote Advertising Sign, Baltimore Medicine Pharmacy Display.

$195

Vintage Kohler Antidote Advertising Sign, Baltimore Medicine Pharmacy Display.

Located in Seattle, WA

Vintage advertising sign for Kohler Antidote, manufactured by Kohler Manufacturing Co. of Baltimore, Maryland. The printed sign advertises the product as an antidote "for nervous and...

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Paper

Giovanola Vintage Advertising Poster, Textile Company, Italy, 1960s

$458Sale Price|20% Off

Giovanola Vintage Advertising Poster, Textile Company, Italy, 1960s

Located in Ceglie Messapica, IT

Giovanola Vintage Advertising Poster, Textile Company, Italy, 1960s A beautiful 1960s original advertising poster. Manufactured in Italy for the Italian from "Gerosa Pubblicazioni" ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper, Canvas

Martini Rossi advertising sculpture or bust, 1960s

$385

Martini Rossi advertising sculpture or bust, 1960s

Located in Leuven, Vlaams Gewest

Cool advertising sculpture or bust for Martini & Rossi to display a bottle in shops. Great to use in our bar or as a decorative piece in your home. Made from plaster 1960s - Italy...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Busts

Materials

Plaster

2 Laurent Perrier Exhibition Advertising Table Lamps

$1,617

2 Laurent Perrier Exhibition Advertising Table Lamps

Located in Godshill, Isle of Wight

2 Laurent Perrier Exhibition Advertising Table Lamps 2 Perrier Laurent Champagne Cuveé Advertising Table Lamps, fresh from France this superb duo was part of a Chateau Exhibition d...

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Blown Glass

Rare large authentic vintage advertising sign Nivea cosmetics, Belgium

$1,547

Rare large authentic vintage advertising sign Nivea cosmetics, Belgium

Located in Meulebeke, BE

Belgium / 1970s / Nivea / advertising sign / mid-century / vintage / design This rare to find large Belgian advertisement shows a woman on the beach, in front of her the famous blue...

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Contemporary Art

Materials

Metal

Guy NicodMartini Advertising Design Extra Dry Cocktail French Modernist Gouache

$641Sale Price|20% Off

Martini Advertising Design Extra Dry Cocktail French Modernist Gouache

By Guy Nicod

Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

It is a rare and evocative example of mid-century French commercial art, reflecting the golden era of cocktail culture, advertising graphics, and poster design.

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Gouache

Midcentury Era Chesterfield Cigarette Metal Tobacciana Advertising Sign

$999

Midcentury Era Chesterfield Cigarette Metal Tobacciana Advertising Sign

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

This midcentury period embossed and painted tin advertising sign was made for the Liggett and Myers Tobacco Company in circa 1965 to promote their Chesterfield cigarette brand. The s...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal

Original Monk Statue "Mönchshofbräu" Beer Advertising Statue, 1930s

$460

Original Monk Statue "Mönchshofbräu" Beer Advertising Statue, 1930s

Located in Nuernberg, DE

A beautiful Monk Statue as Beer Advertising. Made for the famous Moenchshof Brewery in Kulmbach Germany. It is featuring a monk in original clothing who serves beer. Very Good condit...

Category

Vintage 1930s German Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper, Plaster

Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Slovenia Slovenija Yugoslavia Drelse

$2,838

Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Slovenia Slovenija Yugoslavia Drelse

Located in London, GB

Original vintage travel advertising poster published by the Slovenian Tourism Association to promote the region of Slovenia in the former Yugoslavia - Slovenija Jugoslavija - featuri...

Category

Vintage 1950s Slovenian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Original Vintage Advertising Poster Jabali Protective Motorcyclist Gear Spain

$875

Original Vintage Advertising Poster Jabali Protective Motorcyclist Gear Spain

Located in London, GB

Original vintage advertising poster for Jabala protective rain wear for motorcycle riders - Protejase totalmente del frío y la lluvia usando Trajes de plastico Jabali para motoristas...

Category

Vintage 1960s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Guy NicodChallenge Martini International French Modernist Sports Advertising Style Poster

$700Sale Price|20% Off

Challenge Martini International French Modernist Sports Advertising Style Poster

By Guy Nicod

Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

Title: Challenge Martini International French Modernist Sports Advertising Style Poster Guy Nicod (French 1923 - 2021) Gouache on artist paper, unframed Size: 15.75 x 11.75 inches (...

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Gouache

1980 Giant Advertising Vintage Wood Black Paintbrush

$1,600

1980 Giant Advertising Vintage Wood Black Paintbrush

Located in Brescia, IT

Giant Paintbrush 1980 Black Laquered Wood, Aluminum and Bristles

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Aluminum

Champion Advertising Poster of Ronnie Peterson, Hand-Signed, 1973

$1,028

Champion Advertising Poster of Ronnie Peterson, Hand-Signed, 1973

Located in Meulebeke, BE

A highly desirable Champion Spark Plugs advertising poster featuring legendary Formula One driver Ronnie Peterson behind the wheel of the iconic black-and-gold John Player Special Lo...

Category

Vintage 1970s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper, Medium Density Fibreboard (MDF)

Large Enamel Advertising Sign for Player’s Tobacco, 1950

$980

Large Enamel Advertising Sign for Player’s Tobacco, 1950

Located in Richmond, Surrey

Large Enamel advertising sign for Player’s tobacco, 1950 Vintage decorative 'Player's' Tobacco enamel advertising sign. Dating from around early 1950s, this is a great example, a rar...

Category

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Materials

Enamel

LOT 'Leaf' Advertising Ashtray by Danuta Duszniak, Poland, 1960s

$228

LOT 'Leaf' Advertising Ashtray by Danuta Duszniak, Poland, 1960s

Located in Wien, AT

The piece reflects the refined graphic and product design associated with European airlines of the mid-twentieth century. The ashtray is formed in an elegant leaf shape, a motif tha...

Category

Vintage 1960s Polish Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Porcelain

Original Vintage Advertising Poster, Boris Bucan Televizija Zagreb

$3,110

Original Vintage Advertising Poster, Boris Bucan Televizija Zagreb

By Boris Bucan

Located in Melbourne, Victoria

Boris Bucan was an internationally renowned graphic designer from Croatia. His graphic work has been widely exhibited all over the world. This is an original vintage poster which is...

Category

Mid-20th Century Croatian Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Original Vintage Aviation Travel Advertising Poster Air Congo National Airline

$4,851

Original Vintage Aviation Travel Advertising Poster Air Congo National Airline

Located in London, GB

Original vintage aviation travel advertising poster for Air Congo featuring a colourful mid-century design depicting people lining up and boarding a passenger plane via steps with a ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Recent Sales

French Mid-Century Modern Poster for Loterie Nationale by Guy Chabrol, 1963

Unavailable

H 61.5 in W 45.25 in D 0.1 in

French Mid-Century Modern Poster for Loterie Nationale by Guy Chabrol, 1963

By Guy Chabrol

Located in New York, NY

It is a playful and exquisitely made example of a French Mid-Century Modern advertising poster. Printed by Le Belier, Paris, 1963.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-Century Modern Period French Advertising Poster for Amora Mustard

Unavailable

H 46.75 in W 63 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period French Advertising Poster for Amora Mustard

Located in New York, NY

This is a French Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for the mustard brand, Amora.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-Century Modern Period French Air Show Advertising Poster, 1955

Unavailable

H 61 in W 44.75 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period French Air Show Advertising Poster, 1955

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern French poster for an air show at the Bourget Airport which took place from the tenth to the 19th of June, 1955. This poster features a bold but simple de...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-Century Modern Period German Advertising Poster by Henry Ehlers, 1949

Unavailable

H 47.25 in W 33 in D 0.1 in

Mid-Century Modern Period German Advertising Poster by Henry Ehlers, 1949

By Henry Ehlers

Located in New York, NY

This is a boldly colored and exquisitely crafted German Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for Hansen clothing.

Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Prints

Mid-Century Modern Period French Advertising Poster, "Vers La France" 1950s

Unavailable

H 38.5 in W 24.57 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period French Advertising Poster, "Vers La France" 1950s

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for the maritime company Chargeurs Reunis by Brenet in the 1950s.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Prints

Mid-Century Modern Period Pates Supralta Advertising Poster by Pierre Lacroix

Unavailable

H 29.75 in W 46.88 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period Pates Supralta Advertising Poster by Pierre Lacroix

By Pierre Lacroix

Located in New York, NY

This is a whimsical vintage poster of a stylized chef dining on pasta. The primary colors of red, blue, white and yellow adds to the fun. The word pates at the bottom left of the pos...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Mid-Century Modern Period French Poster for Orangina

Unavailable

H 36.38 in W 27.5 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period French Poster for Orangina

By Bernard Villemot

Located in New York, NY

This is a French Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for the drink Orangina.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Italian Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Silca

Unavailable

H 18.88 in W 12.94 in D 0.1 in

Italian Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Silca

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern period Italian advertising poster for Silca chocolates and caramels.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Prints

Malboro advertising bar ashtray

Unavailable

H 13 in W 7.88 in D 2.37 in

Malboro advertising bar ashtray

Located in Nivelles, BE

Malboro advertising bar ashtray. This one is very large, it was placed on the bars for customers and represents a pack of Malboro brand cigarettes.

Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Ceramic

American Mid-Century Modern Period Chiquita Banana Poster, 1955

Unavailable

H 14.38 in W 14.19 in D 0.1 in

American Mid-Century Modern Period Chiquita Banana Poster, 1955

Located in New York, NY

This is an American Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for Chiquita Banded Bananas.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-Century Modern Period French Poster for the National Lottery

Unavailable

H 61.88 in W 45.25 in D 0.01 in

Mid-Century Modern Period French Poster for the National Lottery

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern period French advertising poster for the national lottery from 1963.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Swiss Mid-Century Modern Period Travel Poster by Herbert Lupin, 1948

Unavailable

H 50 in W 36.25 in D 0.1 in

Swiss Mid-Century Modern Period Travel Poster by Herbert Lupin, 1948

By Herbert Leupin

Located in New York, NY

This Swiss Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster was created by Herbert Lupin, a Swiss artist considered to exemplify the Modern Swiss period.

Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-Century Modern Period Italian Poster for the SS Constitution, 1951

Unavailable

H 27.25 in W 18.5 in D 0.1 in

Mid-Century Modern Period Italian Poster for the SS Constitution, 1951

By Alda Sassi

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster by Alda Sassi for the maiden voyage of the SS Constitution, shown here next to her sister ship the SS Independence; both ships ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Prints

Mid-Century Modern French Poster for Spontex by Rene Ravo, 1960

Unavailable

H 60.25 in W 44.25 in D 0.1 in

Mid-Century Modern French Poster for Spontex by Rene Ravo, 1960

By Rene Ravo

Located in New York, NY

A wonderfully playful French Mid-Century Modern period lithograph advertising the Spontex sponge, a large yellow sponge used to wash cars.

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Posters

French Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Igol by Marcel Chauveau, 1955

Unavailable

H 15.69 in W 23.44 in D 0.1 in

French Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Igol by Marcel Chauveau, 1955

By Marcel Chauveau

Located in New York, NY

This is a Mid-Century Modern period French advertising poster for Igol Motorcycles Racing Oil by Marcel Chauveau, 1955.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Posters

1970's Advertising Chalkboard for 7UP

Unavailable

H 29.5 in W 20 in

1970's Advertising Chalkboard for 7UP

Located in Chicago, IL

Original American 1970's advertising chalkboard for 7UP.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Metal

French Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Loterie Nationale Grand Prix, 1966

Unavailable

H 61.19 in W 45.13 in D 0.1 in

French Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for Loterie Nationale Grand Prix, 1966

By Paul Colin

Located in New York, NY

This is a French Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for Loterie Nationale Grand Prix de Paris by Paul Colin.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Prints

American Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for S.S. United States, 1958

Unavailable

H 29.25 in W 20.5 in D 0.1 in

American Mid-Century Modern Period Poster for S.S. United States, 1958

Located in New York, NY

This is an American Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster for the S.S.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Posters

Peter Max 7UP Advertising Thermometer, 1970s

Unavailable

H 2.25 in Dm 12 in

Peter Max 7UP Advertising Thermometer, 1970s

By Peter Max

Located in Fulton, CA

Original, vintage 1970s wall thermometer with a Peter Max design. Very good original condition.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Tin

Big Advertising Coca - Cola Bottom. 1950 - 1955

Unavailable

Big Advertising Coca - Cola Bottom. 1950 - 1955

By Coca Cola Bottling Co.

Located in Karlsruhe, DE

Big Advertising Coca - Cola Bottom. Manufacturer: Coca - Cola. Measure: 90 cm. Year: 1950 - 1955. Condition : Good. Shipping is not included in price. Shipping W...

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern More Furniture and Collectibles

Cinzano Advertising Porcelain Sign Italy 1950-1955

Unavailable

H 19.69 in W 78.5 in

Cinzano Advertising Porcelain Sign Italy 1950-1955

Located in Karlsruhe, DE

Cinzano advertising porcelain sign with 78.5 inch ( 200 cm !!). Italy 1950 - 1955. Great item for restaurant or home decoration. Material: Metal enameled. Year: 1950 - 1955....

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Signs

1970s Olivetti Advertising Poster Italian Design Typewriter

Unavailable

H 26.78 in W 18.9 in D 0 in

1970s Olivetti Advertising Poster Italian Design Typewriter

Located in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

Original 1977 advertising poster for Olivetti designed by Flavio Constantini, Italy. Rolled. Measures: L 68cm x W 48cm.

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Original 1950s Bally Shoes Advertising Poster Fashion

Unavailable

H 29.93 in W 20.28 in D 0 in

Original 1950s Bally Shoes Advertising Poster Fashion

By Pierre Augsburger

Located in Nottingham, Nottinghamshire

Original 1958 advertising poster for bally shoes designed by Pierre Augsburger. Rolled. Measures: H 76 cm x L 51.5 cm.

Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Posters

Materials

Paper

Cosmic Science Church Advertising Light Up Sign

Unavailable

H 8 in W 31 in D 7 in

Cosmic Science Church Advertising Light Up Sign

Located in Orange, CA

Original condition, lights up with red neon. Glass Advertising counters top sign. Right side of sign has blue tape helping frame stay intact. Some blemishes and patina on the housing.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Glass

French Petit Beurre Serving Platter, Advertising Object

Unavailable

H 1.19 in W 10.04 in D 8.08 in

French Petit Beurre Serving Platter, Advertising Object

Located in Retie, BE

French serving platter or tray for LU Petit Beurre Nantes. A glazed ceramic platter in the shape of a Petit Beurre Biscuit from the 1950s. Petit beurre biscuits are known all around...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Modern Platters and Serveware

Materials

Ceramic

Rare American Mid-Century Modern Period Great Northern Railway Poster, 1947

Unavailable

H 32.94 in W 15.88 in D 0.1 in

Rare American Mid-Century Modern Period Great Northern Railway Poster, 1947

Located in New York, NY

Above the train is a sizable amount of written information, split into three columns, about lazy boy. This is a rare Mid-Century Modern period advertising poster that captures the sp...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Posters

1956 Advertising Sign with Bull for Metaroc Cement Building Materials

Unavailable

H 13.78 in W 9.65 in D 0.2 in

1956 Advertising Sign with Bull for Metaroc Cement Building Materials

Located in Retie, BE

Advertising sign with a Bull for building materials. A Mid-20th century publicity sign, advertising sign made for the company Metaroc Brussels, Belgium. This company was known for h...

Category

Mid-20th Century Belgian Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Tin

Vintage Coca - Cola Advertising Fan Cover. 1950 - 1959

Unavailable

H 2.76 in Dm 15.75 in

Vintage Coca - Cola Advertising Fan Cover. 1950 - 1959

Located in CADALSO, ES

Rare to find

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Signs

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

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Mid Century Modern Advertising For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic mid century modern advertising available at 1stDibs. Each mid century modern advertising for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, paper and wood. There are 840 variations of the antique or vintage mid century modern advertising you’re looking for, while we also have 19 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect mid century modern advertising — we have versions that date back to the 19th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. A mid century modern advertising is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in mid-century modern, modern and Art Deco styles are sought with frequency. Jim Hunter, Hervé Morvan and Lane Furniture each produced at least one beautiful mid century modern advertising that is worth considering.

How Much is a Mid Century Modern Advertising?

A mid century modern advertising can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $1,338, while the lowest priced sells for $1 and the highest can go for as much as $118,000.

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.

Questions About Mid Century Modern Advertising

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.
What does mid century modern mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.
What is mid century modern furniture?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.
Is Eames mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
What years are mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.

Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.

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.

Knoll became 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 soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.

Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Why is mid century modern popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
Is rattan mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.
Is Mondrian mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
Is mid-century modern timeless?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.
Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What defines mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
What color wood is mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
Is a tulip table mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
Is Art Deco mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.
What defines a mid-century modern desk?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 16, 2026
Mid-century modern desks (roughly 1940s-1960s) are defined by clean lines, tapered legs and natural wood tones like teak, walnut and rosewood, often with minimal hardware.
Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What year is mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What defines mid-century modern home decor?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.
Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.
What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.