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

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 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 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 13

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 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

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 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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

British Mid Century

Vintage 1940s English Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Pair of British MId-Century Modern Neoclassical Brass Ball Lamps

Vintage 1960s Scottish Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Vintage British Mid Century Teak "Dunvegan" Compact Credenza by McIntosh

Vintage 1960s Scottish Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern Teak "Dunvegan" Credenza by McIntosh

Vintage 1960s Scottish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern Teak Hutch by A.H McIntosh Ltd

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern Afromasia Teak Credenza by Richard Hornby

Vintage 1960s English Scandinavian Modern Ottomans and Poufs

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern "Astro" Teak Ottoman by G Plan

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

British Mid-Century Modern Teak and Brass, Marine Desk or Table Lamp, 1930

1970s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Ernest Burnett HoodBritish Mid Century, The Original Glasgow Underground Train Maintenance Depot, Circa 1970

Vintage 1970s English Mid-Century Modern Chairs

70's British MidCentury Modern Chairs with Chrome Bases, Manner of Milo Baughman

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

British Midcentury 1960s Lurashell Lounge Chair 1

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

British Midcentury 1960s Lurashell Lounge Chair 2

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Pair of British Mid-Century Modern Brass Baluster Table Lamps

20th Century Surrealist Abstract Paintings

Derrick Latimer SayerModern British mid century gouache painting by Derrick Latimer Sayer

20th Century Abstract Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

William BlackModern British, mid century, abstract gouache painting by William Black , 1969

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Pair of British Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Brass Baluster Table Lamps

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Vanities

Vintage British Mid Century Modern Teak Vanity by Elliotts of Newbury

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Candlesticks

Pair of British Mid-Century Modern Nickel Helix Form Candle Holders

20th Century Post-Impressionist Nude Paintings

Roy SpencerLarge Modern British, mid century oil painting of nude with bracelets

Vintage 1960s English Scandinavian Modern Credenzas

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern Teak Compact Credenza by G Plan

Vintage 1960s English Scandinavian Modern Credenzas

Vintage British Mid Century Modern "Fresco" Teak Credenza by G Plan

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Fine British Mid Century Daybed Ottoman With Osbourne & Little Fabric By Reylon

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Stools

British Mid-Century Modern Pair of Tractor Stools by Rodney Kinsman, 1960s

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

Pair British Mid Century Modern Bronze Python Wall Sconces by Wilson Laidlaw

20th Century Academic Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mona Alizon EdmondsBritish mid century pen drawing 'Bird's eye view' by Mona Alizon Edwards

20th Century Abstract Mixed Media

David AndrewBritish mid century 3D collage by Cornish artist David Andrew, 2/25

Late 20th Century English Tea Sets

British Mid Century Royal Selangor Pewter & Rosewood Tea Pot By Gerald Benney

Late 20th Century English Tea Sets

British Mid Century Royal Selangor Pewter & Rosewood Coffee Pot By Gerald Benney

20th Century Modern Abstract Paintings

Rodney GladwellModern British mid century oil painting of aubergines on purple and white , 1959

20th Century Surrealist Abstract Paintings

Derrick Latimer SayerModern British mid century gouache painting by Neo Romantic artist Latimer Sayer, 1955

20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Sven BerlinSven Berlin watercolour drawing of a maiden head, British, Mid Century artist

Vintage 1960s English Scandinavian Modern Credenzas

Vintage British Mid-Century Modern Compact Teak "Fresco" Credenza by G Plan

Vintage 1960s English Scandinavian Modern Sideboards

Vintage British Mid-Century Teak "Sequence" Compact Credenza by A. Younger Ltd

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Vintage British Mid Century Modern Afromasia Teak Dining Table by A. Younger Ltd

20th Century Academic Animal Drawings and Watercolors

Mona Alizon EdmondsBritish mid century watercolour and pen drawing of black and tan terrier dogs, 1944

20th Century Academic Animal Drawings and Watercolors

Mona Alizon EdmondsBritish mid century watercolour and pen drawing of black and tan terrier dogs, 1947

20th Century Post-Impressionist Nude Paintings

Roy SpencerLarge Modern British, mid century oil painting of girl in bikini on beach

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Set of Four Vintage British Mid Century Modern Teak Dining Chairs by G Plan

20th Century Academic Animal Drawings and Watercolors

Mona Alizon EdmondsBritish mid century watercolour and pen drawing of children at a zoo with monkey

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Paintings

Ruth ThomasJerusalem Tower of David, Sabra, Israeli British Modernist Impasto Oil Painting, 1959

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Vases

Ernest Burnett Hood
British Mid Century, The Original Glasgow Underground Train Maintenance Depot, Circa 1970

Derrick Latimer Sayer
Modern British mid century gouache painting by Derrick Latimer Sayer

William Black
Modern British, mid century, abstract gouache painting by William Black , 1969

Roy Spencer
Large Modern British, mid century oil painting of nude with bracelets

Mona Alizon Edmonds
British mid century pen drawing 'Bird's eye view' by Mona Alizon Edwards

David Andrew
British mid century 3D collage by Cornish artist David Andrew, 2/25

Rodney Gladwell
Modern British mid century oil painting of aubergines on purple and white , 1959

Derrick Latimer Sayer
Modern British mid century gouache painting by Neo Romantic artist Latimer Sayer, 1955

Sven Berlin
Sven Berlin watercolour drawing of a maiden head, British, Mid Century artist

Mona Alizon Edmonds
British mid century watercolour and pen drawing of black and tan terrier dogs, 1944

Mona Alizon Edmonds
British mid century watercolour and pen drawing of black and tan terrier dogs, 1947

Roy Spencer
Large Modern British, mid century oil painting of girl in bikini on beach

Mona Alizon Edmonds
British mid century watercolour and pen drawing of children at a zoo with monkey

Ruth Thomas
Jerusalem Tower of David, Sabra, Israeli British Modernist Impasto Oil Painting, 1959

British Mid 20th Century
Large Mid 20th Century Signed Oil Painting Still Life Flowers in Interior

20th Century British School
Founded on Sand, Gouache and Ink Artwork, British School Mid-20th Century

Mid 20th Century British School
Portrait of a Young Man - Modern British Impressionist Oil on Board Painting, c.1950

British School
Mid Century British Oil Painting - WW2 Plane in Field - Spitfire?, 20th century

20th Century British School
Ink and Watercolour Sketches, Wigan School, 20th Century British

British School
MID CENTURY SIGNED OIL PAINTING - MOODY DUSKY MUTED LANDSCAPE TREES & HAYSTACKS, Mid 20th Century

British Abstract
Framed British Abstract Composition 1998 Coastal Town Landscape, 1998

British Victorian
Mid 19th Century English Oil Painting Anglers River Landscape at Sunset

Hazel M. Barnett
Ponies at Penlan, 1967.Swansea.Wales.Welsh Pony.Valleys.Equestrian.Hot Sun., 1967

20th Century British School
The Art Model, 20th Century Oil Painting, Nude

British Sporting
Large British Sporting Art Oil Painting - Huntsman on Horseback with Hounds