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

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 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

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 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 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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 16

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.

Question 17

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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.

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

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 20

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.

Boats Mid Century

Vintage 1970s Early Victorian Paintings

Vintage Victorian Scenic Water Nautical Boating Boat Mid-Century Modern Painting

1960s Modern Landscape Paintings

Michael Frary "Strange Storm Coming" Sail Boats, Mid Century Modern Texas Painting, Circa 1966

Mid-20th Century Landscape Paintings

James Jeffrey GrantDrying the Sails, dock scene Gloucester Harbor with fishing boats; mid-century

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Curtis Jere Sailboat on Pier / Dock Wall Art Sculpture

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century French SchoolBoats on a River - Mid 20th Century French Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting, c.1950

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Mid Century ItalianFishing Boats at Sunset off the Neapolitan Coastline, large signed oil painting

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

French Mid Century St Tropez Harbor Boats Moored Sleep Sunny French Old Town 1950's Impressionist, 1950's

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Italian Mid 20th CenturySigned Italian Oil Painting c. 1950's Fishing Boat Sunny Beach Side Sea Scene

Mid-20th Century American Adirondack Side Tables

Custom Teak Presentation Side Table by the Chris Craft Boat Company

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Boat - Original Drawing - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Vintage 1950s American Folk Art Nautical Objects

Mid Century Large Motorized Hand Made Chris Craft Cabin Cruiser C1955

Early 20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Boat - Original Drawing - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Boat - Original Pen Sketch - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Danielle DourBoats - Original Pencil Drawing - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

The Boats and Boatmen - Drawing - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Boats - Watercolor by French Master - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Early 20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Cora Alice Akers WrightMid Century Fishing Boats Landscape, circa 1940

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

André MargatBoats - Original Lithograph By André Margat - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Landscape Prints

Paul PetitBoats - Original Lithograph by Paul Petit - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Robert NalyBoat - Mezzotint Print by Robert Naly - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Japanese Boats - Original Lithograph After Hiroshige- Mid 20th Century, Mid-20th Century

20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mid 20th Century Gouache - Beached Boats, Unknown

1960s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

H HarderMid Century Boats at Sea Landscape, 1960

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Photography

Old Days Photo - The Boat - Vintage Photo - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid Century Painting of Boats in the Harbor

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

French Mid-Century Boat Candle Sconces, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mino MaccariThe Fish Boat - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Robert NalyBoat - Original Ink Drawing by Robert Naly - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Frank DuffieldBritish Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Prepping The Rowing Boats , Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

C CampbellBoats in Harbor, Mid Century Double-Sided Watercolor , c.1950s

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Mustapha YehyaLandscape with Boats - Oil Paint by Mustapha Yehya - mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desks

Harvey Probber American Mid-Century 'Boat Top' Polished Walnut Writing Desk

20th Century Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century Oil - Dutch Canal Boats, Unknown

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

The Sea and Boats - Lithograph After Utagawa Hiroshige - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

1950s American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Mid Century Boat Docks Pacific Grove Landscape , 1950

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Bookends

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Sunshine Yellow Boat Bookends

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Luigi SurdiBoats - China Ink and Watercolor by Luigi Surdi - Mid 20th century, Mid 20th century

1960s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Walter Prescher van Ed Mid Century Brittany Seascape with Fishing Boats, circa 1960

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Sarah Leonard Krepp Large Mid-Century Modern Boats Painting

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Michael Frary
"Strange Storm Coming" Sail Boats, Mid Century Modern Texas Painting, Circa 1966

James Jeffrey Grant
Drying the Sails, dock scene Gloucester Harbor with fishing boats; mid-century

Mid 20th Century French School
Boats on a River - Mid 20th Century French Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting, c.1950

Mid Century Italian
Fishing Boats at Sunset off the Neapolitan Coastline, large signed oil painting

French Mid Century
St Tropez Harbor Boats Moored Sleep Sunny French Old Town 1950's Impressionist, 1950's

Italian Mid 20th Century
Signed Italian Oil Painting c. 1950's Fishing Boat Sunny Beach Side Sea Scene

Danielle Dour
Boats - Original Pencil Drawing - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Cora Alice Akers Wright
Mid Century Fishing Boats Landscape, circa 1940

André Margat
Boats - Original Lithograph By André Margat - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Paul Petit
Boats - Original Lithograph by Paul Petit - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Robert Naly
Boat - Mezzotint Print by Robert Naly - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

H Harder
Mid Century Boats at Sea Landscape, 1960

Mino Maccari
The Fish Boat - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Robert Naly
Boat - Original Ink Drawing by Robert Naly - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Prepping The Rowing Boats , Mid 20th Century

C Campbell
Boats in Harbor, Mid Century Double-Sided Watercolor , c.1950s

Mustapha Yehya
Landscape with Boats - Oil Paint by Mustapha Yehya - mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Luigi Surdi
Boats - China Ink and Watercolor by Luigi Surdi - Mid 20th century, Mid 20th century

Walter Prescher van Ed
Mid Century Brittany Seascape with Fishing Boats, circa 1960

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Busy Figures By Rowing Boats, Mid 20th Century

Paul Petit
Seascape with Boats - Original Lithograph by Paul Petit - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Multi-Color Summer Boat Race , Mid 20th Century

Hildegarde Hamilton
Island Mountains and Boats by the Coast, Mid 20th Century Landscape, mid 20th century

P. Thomas
P. Thomas - Mid 20th Century Oil, Moored Boat, Unknown

P. Mantos
Mid Century Modern Abstracted Maritime Seascape with Boats , 1968

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Red Sailing Boat In Grey Docks, Mid 20th Century

Frank Duffield
British Mid 20th Century Impressionist Painting Pair Of Boats Waiting On Sand, Mid 20th Century

L. E
L. E - Mid 20th Century Oil, Boats And Orange Cliffs, Unknown

Pieter Hashager
Boats in the Harbor - Mid Century Industrial Seascape , 1947

Vincenzo Colucci
Boats Fishing in the Naples - Oil Painting by V. Colucci - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

William Jack Laycox
Jack Laycox Mid Century "Tug Boats" Oil Painting c.1960, Circa 1960