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 is a mid-century sofa?

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What is mid-century artwork?

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is mid century decor?

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

What is a mid-century chair?

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture 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. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

What is mid century furniture?

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

What is mid-century jewelry?

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

What does mid century mean?

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

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.

What years are considered mid-century?

The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and 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. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.

Are the 1970s mid-century?

No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

How do you identify mid century lamps?

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps 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.

What makes a dresser mid-century?

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers 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.

Mid Century Portraits

Portrait Of Woman Oil Paintings

Boyer Oil

Impressionist Portrait Of A Young Girl

Midcentury Modern Paintings

Portrait Of A Man Oil On Canvas

Vintage Paint Palette

Midcentury Watercolors

20th Century French Impressionist Painting

Jon BlanchetteMid Century Portrait of Woman, 1960s

$1,850

Mid Century Portrait of Woman

By Jon Blanchette

Located in Soquel, CA

Mid Century portrait of a grey haired woman wearing a sun hat by Jon Blanchette (American, 1908-1987).

Category

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil, Masonite

$8,000

Mid Century Portrait of Woman With Off the Shoulder Dress - Wife of Eliot Ness

Located in Miami, FL

Mid-Century Portrait of a Beautiful Woman With Off-the-Shoulder Dress, loosely painted in a sophisticated neutral color palette of soft, muted pinks, grays, warm mushroom taupes, and...

Category

1950s Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

$250

Mid-century Portrait Painting of a Black Woman

Located in Wilton Manors, FL

Beautiful portrait of an African-American woman, ca. 1965-70. Ink on mulberry kozo paper, sheet measuring 9.5 x 14 inches. Original damaged matting depicted here to corroborate age...

Category

1960s Realist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Ink, Mulberry Paper

Genevieve RogersMid Century Portrait of a Woman with Pearls

$316Sale Price|20% Off

$7,500

Mid Century Portrait of Actress Paula Laurence - Wife of Joseph Hirshhorn

By Lily Harmon

Located in Miami, FL

Quick and loose expressionist portrait of stage and screen actress Paula Laurence Portrait of Paula Laurence (1916-2005). Oil and graphite on linen. Signed top right. Exhibited: "Lil...

Category

1950s Expressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil, Graphite

$2,485

American Mid-Century Portrait of a Bird - Oil Painting on Board of a Seagull

Located in Litchfield, CT

American Mid-Century portrait of a bird - abstract oil painting on board of a seagull.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Modern Paintings

Materials

Paint

A rare mid-century portrait of Abraham Lincoln executed in inlaid woods signed K

$1,440Sale Price|20% Off

A rare mid-century portrait of Abraham Lincoln executed in inlaid woods signed K

Located in Vancouver, British Columbia

An interesting and unique mid century portrait of Abraham Lincoln executed in a a variety of inlaid woods on a wooden board.

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Folk Art Political and Patriotic Memorabilia

Materials

Wood

Ben MessickYoung Girl by the Window, Mid-century Portrait, c. 1940

$750

Young Girl by the Window, Mid-century Portrait

By Ben Messick

Located in Soquel, CA

Mid-century portrait of a young girl by a window by acclaimed California artist Ben Messick (American, 1891-1981).

Category

1940s American Impressionist Figurative Prints

Materials

Paper, Ink

$8,605

Mid Century Portrait Post Impressionist Oil of Henrietta Phipps artists daughter

By Henry Lamb

Located in ludlow, GB

Mid Century Signed Portrait in Oils of artists daughter the renowned horticulturist Henrietta Phipps.

Category

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Materials

Oil

Gordon CookPair of Mid Century Blocking Portrait Study, Mid Century Portrait of a Woman, c.1960s

$2,850

$950

$1,000Sale Price|20% Off

$1,450

Vera Aleksandrovna Lyubimova (1918-2010) - Framed Oil, Woman in a Headscarf

Located in Corsham, GB

An intimate mid-century portrait of a Russian woman wearing a vibrant, multi-coloured headscarf that drapes gracefully over her head and shoulders.

Category

Mid-20th Century Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

Recent Sales

Puzyrevich AlexanderMid-century Portrait Framed Oil Painting Soviet Grandmother Child by Puzyrevich, 1952

Unavailable

H 25.6 in W 19.3 in

Mid-century Portrait Framed Oil Painting Soviet Grandmother Child by Puzyrevich

Located in Kyiv, UA

Mid-century Portrait Framed Oil Painting Soviet Grandmother and Child by Puzyrevich A.

Category

1950s Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil, Cardboard

Extensive Mid Century Portraits Collection - Individually Priced

Unavailable

Extensive Mid Century Portraits Collection - Individually Priced

Located in San Francisco, CA

Seavey http://www.lostartsalon.com/clydefolletseaveysr.html , 1930s, Oil on Board, 11”x11” unframed, $1,285 Top Right: 9803- Virginia Jensen http://www.lostartsalon.com/virginiaj...

Category

20th Century American Paintings

Mid-Century Portrait of a Lady Oil on Canvas

Unavailable

H 35.44 in W 27.56 in D 3.94 in

Mid-Century Portrait of a Lady Oil on Canvas

Located in Oxfordshire, GB

Portrait of a society beauty, Mid-Century English school.

Category

Antique Early 19th Century British Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Materials

Other

Mid Century Portrait (who is this actress?) by Anna Wilson

Unavailable

H 41 in W 35 in

Mid Century Portrait (who is this actress?) by Anna Wilson

By Anna Wilson

Located in Pasadena, CA

This framed portrait is by Anna Wilson. Anna Wilson was born in 1846 in England but became known as a California artist; she appears to have become active in California from 1889 on ...

Category

20th Century American Paintings

Materials

Canvas

Yellow and Blue Mid-century Portrait of a Young Woman, 1960s

Unavailable

H 21.07 in W 15.16 in D 1.38 in

Yellow and Blue Mid-century Portrait of a Young Woman, 1960s

Located in Melbourne, AU

A lovely portrait of an adolescent woman, by an unknown but highly skilled artist. This portrait captures the sensitivity, vulnerability and defiance of young womanhood. It referen...

Category

Vintage 1960s Australian Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Materials

Wood, Masonite, Paint

Midcentury Portrait of Two Women by Dutch Painter Jan Rijlaarsdam

Unavailable

H 36.38 in W 28.63 in D 2 in

Midcentury Portrait of Two Women by Dutch Painter Jan Rijlaarsdam

By Jan Rijlaarsdam 1

Located in Charlevoix, MI

A wonderful portrait of two women painted by Jan Rijlaarsdam, one of whom is carrying a bouquet of flowers. Painted in a midcentury / 1960s French style, with wonderful bright colors...

Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Paintings

Materials

Paint

Unavailable

H 25.5 in W 22.25 in D 3 in

Oil on Board of Portrait of Girl

Located in Nashville, TN

Mid-Century Portrait Painting from a Marblehead, Mass Estate.

Category

20th Century Unknown Paintings

Michael di CosolaMoody Surreal Portrait Mid-Late 20th Century Gouache, October 10, 1995

Unavailable

H 10.25 in W 13.25 in D 2 in

Moody Surreal Portrait Mid-Late 20th Century Gouache

By Michael di Cosola

Located in San Francisco, CA

This mid to late 20th-century gouache on paper is by Abstract Surrealist San Francisco artist Michael di Cosola (1929-2010). Di Cosola studied at the Chicago Art Institute before mov...

Category

1990s Surrealist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Masonite, Oil

Female Oil Painting Mid Century Canvas Modernist Oil Portrait

Unavailable

H 20 in W 16 in D 1.5 in

Female Oil Painting Mid Century Canvas Modernist Oil Portrait

Located in East Hampton, NY

A modernist oil painting of a young woman. This mid century portrait in a modernist style is an amazing find.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Wood, Paint

Martin SnipperPortrait of Artist Ethel Weiner Mid Century Oil Painting

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 30 in W 27 in D 2 in

Self-Portrait

By William Bradford

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Addresses: Columbus, OH (1924) Studied: Académie Julian, Paris, 1892-96 Member: Columbus PPC Sources: WW24 William Bradford (April 30, 1823 – April 25, 1892) was an American romanti...

Category

Mid-19th Century Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

James Arden GrantMid 20th Century Pair of Pastel Drawings by James Arden Grant, Mid 20th Century

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 21.76 in W 15.16 in D 0.69 in

Portrait of a Lady French 19th Century Painting Pastel on Canvas

Located in FR

19th Century Portrait of a Lady French Pastel on Canvas c1850-60 Indistinctly signed Unframed This has at some time been removed from its frame there is a small hole as shown in pho...

Category

Mid-19th Century Realist Portrait Paintings

Oil

Charles LevierLa Comediene Mid Century Modern, circa 1965

Unavailable

Unavailable

H 28.19 in W 15.19 in

Portrait of a Hassidic Boy

By Edgar Stoëbel

Located in Graton, CA

Edgar Stoebel (1909-2001), Hassidic boy (titled in the catalogue of Boisgirard auction house, at a sale held on November 23, 2011, as "Jeune Juif," o/c, signed lower left "Stoebel."...

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

Charles Zacharie LandellePortrait of a Young Girl

Unavailable

H 22 in W 15 in

Portrait of a Young Girl

By Charles Zacharie Landelle

Located in Nashville, TN

Oil on canvas; 22 ¼ x 15 ¼ inches Signed upper middle right

Category

Mid-19th Century Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Canvas, Oil

Jennings TofelExpressionist Female Portrait in Watercolor, Mid 20th Century

Unavailable

H 15 in W 11.5 in D 0.07 in

Expressionist Female Portrait in Watercolor, Mid 20th Century

By Jennings Tofel

Located in San Francisco, CA

This mid 20th century watercolor on paper portrait of a woman with blue eyes is by Polish-born New York artist Jennings Tofel (1891-1959).

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Paper, Watercolor

Henry PickeringHenry Pickering, Portrait of a Gentleman, 1759

Unavailable

H 36.75 in W 31.5 in D 2.5 in

Henry Pickering, Portrait of a Gentleman

By Henry Pickering

Located in London, GB

Henry Pickering, Portrait of a Gentleman Oil on canvas; signed and dated 1759; held in a giltwood period frame Provenance: Lenygon & Morant Ltd. c.1900; Knoedler, October 1912 (Sto...

Category

Mid-18th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

David Garfinkiel Mid-Century Modern "Reviere Maternite" Painting by David Garfinkiel, circa 1950s

Unavailable

H 32 in W 26 in D 2 in

Mid-Century Modern "Reviere Maternite" Painting by David Garfinkiel

Located in Chicago, IL

David Garfinkiel 1902-1970 Reviere Maternite David Garfinkiel was born in Radom (Poland) in 1902 into a family of artists. In 1932 he arrives in Paris, attracted as many others by th...

Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

Nathaniel Dance-Holland18TH CENTURY PORTRAIT LADY IN A WHITE DRESS WITH A BLUE SASH AND FEATHERED HAT, 1735-1811

Unavailable

H 48 in W 38 in D 5 in

18TH CENTURY PORTRAIT LADY IN A WHITE DRESS WITH A BLUE SASH AND FEATHERED HAT

By Nathaniel Dance-Holland

Located in London/Yorkshire, GB

PORTRAIT OF A LADY BY SIR. NATHANIEL DANCE - HOLLAND R.A (1735-1811) A particularly fine quality, 18th century English, the portrait of a beauty (traditionally identified as Eliza...

Category

Mid-18th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings

Materials

Materials

Paper, Acrylic

Helen Sewell RenniePortrait of a Woman in Ink, Mid 20th Century, Circa 1940s

Unavailable

H 18 in W 12 in

Portrait of a Woman in Ink, Mid 20th Century

By Helen Sewell Rennie

Located in San Francisco, CA

This 1930-1950 ink on peach paper portrait of a woman is by Washington D.C. artist Helen Rennie (1906-1989). Rennie was a WPA artist. She exhibited at the Metropolitan Museum of Art,...

Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Paper, Ink

Michael di CosolaSurreal Monochromatic Portrait Mid - Late 20th Century Ink

Unavailable

H 25 in W 19 in

Surreal Monochromatic Portrait Mid - Late 20th Century Ink

By Michael di Cosola

Located in San Francisco, CA

This mid to late 20th-century monochromatic portrait is by Abstract Surrealist San Francisco artist Michael di Cosola (1929-2010).

Category

Late 20th Century Surrealist Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Paper, Ink

Allyn AmundsonAllyn Amundson (American 1934 - 1975); Portrait; oil on paper

Unavailable

H 33 in W 27 in

Allyn Amundson (American 1934 - 1975); Portrait; oil on paper

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Oil painter; Assistant Drawing Instructor at University of Wisconsin-Madison. 1958 Wisconsin State Fair Festival of Arts 1959. Exhibitor-44th & 45th Annual WP&S Exhibition at Milwa...

Category

Mid-20th Century Portrait Paintings

Materials

Paper, Oil

Bert SternGary Cooper, 1960 BLACK AND WHITE MID CENTURY HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR, 2017

Unavailable

H 44.5 in W 37 in

Gary Cooper, 1960 BLACK AND WHITE MID CENTURY HOLLYWOOD GLAMOUR

By Bert Stern

Located in Sag Harbor, NY

BLACK AND WHITE MID CENTURY FASHION HOLLYWOOD COA FROM THE ESTATE Bert Stern was one of the leading photographers of the 1950s and 1960s; he redefined fashion photography with his c...

Category

1960s Contemporary Portrait Photography

Watercolor

Santini Poncini"The Doll and The Circus" Oil Portrait Painting by Santini Poncini, 1950s

Unavailable

H 17 in W 13.5 in D 1.25 in

"The Doll and The Circus" Oil Portrait Painting by Santini Poncini

Located in Pasadena, CA

Some artists immediately stand out for the singularity of their work. Although little is known about the 20th-century French painter Santini Poncini, his work is instantly recognizab...

Category

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

$1,980

H 46.5 in W 35 in

Huge French 1930's Post Impressionist Signed Oil Portrait Artist Painting

By Georges Delhomme

Located in Cirencester, Gloucestershire

Portrait of the artist, Mario Tauzin (French 1909-1979) By Georges Delhomme (French 1904-1989) signed oil painting board, framed dated 1934 framed: 46.5 x 35 inches board: 42 x 30 in...

Category

1930s Post-Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

Dewitt M. LockmanPortrait of A Young Woman In A Hat, 1930

$3,000

$353

$1,850

H 24.25 in W 18.25 in D 1 in

WPA Style Portrait Painting of a Gentleman, American, 1930s-1940s

Located in San Francisco, CA

Portrait painting of Walter Levin, oil on canvas, unframed. Signed Haughton College Bickerton in upper right corner, and having the original gallery label on the back. California Bay...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Paintings

Materials

Materials

Oil

Katherine KallickShadow of Light - Nude Figurative Study with a Bottle of California Wine, 1973-77

$920Sale Price|20% Off

$1,400

H 22.25 in W 19.5 in D 2 in

19th Century Italian Genre Oil Painting -- Couple Talking in Ancient Roman Lane

By European Artist

Located in Soquel, CA

This charming Italian genre painting in the style of Pio Joris, a master of the 19th-century Italian genre painting, evokes the picturesque and nostalgic atmosphere of Italian life, ...

Category

1870s Italian School Figurative Paintings

Materials

Linen, Oil, Stretcher Bars

$10,928

H 36 in W 31 in D 2 in

Portrait of a Bride - British 1934 Romantic art female portrait oil painting

By Frank Owen Salisbury

Located in Hagley, England

This beautiful British 1930's portrait oil painting is by noted artist Frank Owen Salisbury or Frank O'Salisbury as he is also known. Painted in 1934, the composition is a half lengt...

Category

1930s Realist Portrait Paintings

Materials

Oil

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Mid Century Portraits For Sale on 1stDibs

Find a variety of mid century portraits available on 1stDibs. Finding the ideal Modern, Contemporary or Abstract examples of these works for your living room, whether you’re looking for small- or large-size pieces, is no easy task — start by shopping our selection today. These items have been made for many years, with versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century. Mid century portraits available on 1stDibs span a range of colors that includes brown, gray, black, white and more. These artworks have been a part of the life’s work for many artists, but the versions made by Mick Rock, McKenney & Hall, Jay Blakesberg, Henry Diltz and Jake Chessum are consistently popular. The range of these distinct pieces — often created in paint, oil paint and pigment print — can elevate any room of your home.

How Much are Mid Century Portraits?

The average selling price for mid century portraits we offer is $1,299, while they’re typically $1 on the low end and $800,000 for the highest priced.

Questions About Mid Century Portraits

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 is a mid-century sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
What is mid-century artwork?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is mid century decor?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.
What is a mid-century chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture 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. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.
What is mid century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
What is mid-century jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.
What does mid century mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.
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.
What years are considered mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and 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. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.
Are the 1970s mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
How can you tell if furniture is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
How can you tell if a chair is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
How do you identify mid century lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps 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.
What makes a dresser mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers 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.