Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 3

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 4

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 5

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 6

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 7

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 8

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 9

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 10

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 11

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 12

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 13

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 14

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 15

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Question 17

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 19

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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.

Mid Century Apple

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Mid Century Apple Still-Life

1950s Abstract Expressionist Mixed Media

Anna BallarianMid Century Apple Abstracted Still Life, 1959

20th Century Floor Lamps

Vintage Mid Century Apple Green Adjustable Floor Lamp, 1970s

Vintage 1970s Swiss Hollywood Regency More Dining and Entertaining

Mid Century Apple Ice Bucket by Freddo Therm/ Hans Thurnwald

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Mid Century Apple Green Wool Chair, Walnut Wood, Rajmund Halas, Poland, 1960s

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Decorative Brass Apple Form Vide-Poche, circa 1970, France.

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Pair of Apple-Shaped Vide Poche Bowl in Tortoiseshell Effect Lucite, Italy 1970

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still-life Paintings

20th Century French SchoolMid Century French Post-Impressionist Signed Oil Apples on Green Table Interior

20th Century Still-life Paintings

Mid 20th Century Oil - Apple Blossom, 20th Century

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

American Mid Century Blenko Glass Apple

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

Vintage Mid Century Modern Apple Sculpture

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Florence C. SandfortMid Century Still Life -- Antiques and Apples, 1952

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Barware

Mid-Century Italian Modern Aluminum "Apple" Ice Bucket

Vintage 1970s Czech Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Mid-Century Plastic Box, Apple, 1970's

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Paintings

Still life with Apples and Bottle - Oil Paint - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

20th Century Italian Modernist Frames

Cartier Apple Mid-Century Modern Picture Frame Sterling Silver

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sheffield and Silverplate

Mid-Century Oversized Silver-Plated Apple Ice Bucket, Italian

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Édouard Righetti (1924-2001)Original French Mid Century Oil - Bright Apples In Basket, 1950's

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Paperweights

Mid Century Modern Vintage Pink Stone Carved Apple Paper Weight - Italy

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Platters and Serveware

Mid Century Vintage Transparent Apple Decorative Glass Plate, Italy, 1960s

1960s American Impressionist Still-life Paintings

J HerronMid Century Roses and Apple Blossoms Floral Still Life, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Mid Century Modern Murano Aventurine Apple Bowl, Pink Cranberry Sommerso

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Barware

Mid-Century Italian Modern MPI Brass "Apple" Lidded Serving/Candy Dish

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Still-life Paintings

Vintage Mid Century Modern Swedish Still Life Oil Painting - Fish & Apple, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Modern Still-life Paintings

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Expressive Still Life Oil Painting - Apple Splendour, 1960s

1950s Fauvist Still-life Paintings

Helen Enoch GleiforstMid Century Fuji Apples Still Life with Plaid Cloth

20th Century Landscape Paintings

French School Mid 20th Century Oil - Cottage and Apple Blossom Trees, 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Paperweights

Mid-Century Modern Murano Art Glass Blue and Clear Apple Sculpture Paperweight

Vintage 1960s Table Lamps

Pair of Mid-Century table lamps in White & Apple Green

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Anne Marie Migette PerardMid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still Life with Apples and Female Torso

Mid-20th Century Modern Still-life Paintings

Mid-Century Modern Swedish Expressive Oil Painting- Still Life with Green Apples, 1950s

1960s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Jon BlanchetteMid Century Figurative Landscape -- Aptos Village Apple Shed and Market, 1961

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still-life Paintings

French SchoolMid Century French Post Impressionist Signed Oil Lemons & Apples Still Life

Mid-20th Century Modern Still-life Paintings

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Swedish Still Life Oil Painting - Plant Pot & Apples, 1960s

20th Century Still-life Paintings

Modern British Mid 20th Century Oil - Still Life with Jug & Apples, Unknown

Mid-18th Century Naturalistic Figurative Prints

Apples, [1735]-1737-1745.

Mid-20th Century Still-life Prints

Aimé BarraudApples

1950s Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

William Henry InnesApple Blossom Tree and Dandelions - Mid 20th Century Impressionist Landscape Oil, Circa 1950

1950s Figurative Sculptures

Lawrence Edwin BlazeyBag of Apples, Mid-Century Ceramic Still Life Sculpture, Cleveland School, c. 1950

20th Century Still-life Paintings

Anna Ballarian
Mid Century Apple Abstracted Still Life, 1959

20th Century French School
Mid Century French Post-Impressionist Signed Oil Apples on Green Table Interior

Florence C. Sandfort
Mid Century Still Life -- Antiques and Apples, 1952

Édouard Righetti (1924-2001)
Original French Mid Century Oil - Bright Apples In Basket, 1950's

J Herron
Mid Century Roses and Apple Blossoms Floral Still Life, 1950s

Helen Enoch Gleiforst
Mid Century Fuji Apples Still Life with Plaid Cloth

Anne Marie Migette Perard
Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still Life with Apples and Female Torso

Jon Blanchette
Mid Century Figurative Landscape -- Aptos Village Apple Shed and Market, 1961

French School
Mid Century French Post Impressionist Signed Oil Lemons & Apples Still Life

Aimé Barraud
Apples

William Henry Innes
Apple Blossom Tree and Dandelions - Mid 20th Century Impressionist Landscape Oil, Circa 1950

Lawrence Edwin Blazey
Bag of Apples, Mid-Century Ceramic Still Life Sculpture, Cleveland School, c. 1950

Bertrand PY
Bertrand Py (1895-1973) - Mid 20th Century Oil, Still Life with Three Apples, 20th Century

Lieve Van Der S.
Lieve Van Der S. - Mid 20th Century Oil, Eggs, Apples And Pheasant, Unknown

William Henry Innes
Apple Blossom Tree Park - Mid 20th Century Impressionist Landscape Oil by Innes, Circa 1950

Michael Baxte
"Still Life with Apples" Fruit Modern Mid Century Oil Painting on Board Painting, Circa 1960

Guy Nicod
French 20th Century Modernist Painting Red Apples Interior Table Still Life

Johann Wilhelm Weinmann
Flowering Apple Plant: 18th Century Hand-colored Botanical Engraving by Weinmann, 1738

French School
20th Century French Modernist Oil Painting Still Life of an Apple

George Harvey
Oil Still Life of Apples, c. 1860

F. Braun
F. Braun - 1950 Oil, Three Apples, 1950