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

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 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

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 15

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 16

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 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.

Cosimo Mid Century

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Georgian Prints

18th-century Seashell Engravings by Niccolo Gualtieri

17th Century Old Masters Nude Drawings and Watercolors

Study of a Fate at mid-body, a red chalk attributed to Giovanni da San Giovanni, Circa 1635

Mid-19th Century Old Masters Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Baldassarre Franceschini, Sleeping Cupid, Valentine's Day Gift, circa 1850

Antique Mid-19th Century Prints

Antique Print of Various Medals of Tuscany in Italy, 1843

Antique Mid-19th Century English Grand Tour Animal Sculptures

Monumental Uffizi Boar or Il Porcellino by Austin and Seeley

Mid-19th Century Renaissance Portrait Paintings

after Andrea del Sarto circa 1863. Portrait of Baccio Bandinelli. Uffizi Gallery

Mid-17th Century Old Masters Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Baldassare Franceschini, known as VolterranoA red chalk study sheet by Baldassare Franceschini, known as Volterrano, 1636-1646

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16th Century Old Masters Paintings

Flemish painter of the 16th-17th centuryAnnunciation Flemish Paint Oil on canvas Old master 16/17th Century Religious, 1550-1650

1870s Symbolist Figurative Paintings

Rogelio de Egusquiza y Barrena"A Reverie During The Ball", 19th Century Oil on Canvas by Rogelio Egusquiza, 1879

Early 20th Century French Drawings

French Academic Charcoal Drawing of Standing Nude Male Figure

1890s Impressionist Figurative Paintings

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Early 18th Century Old Masters Figurative Paintings

Scholar Sharpening His Quill Penn Attributed to Justus Juncker, Oil on Panel, 1700s

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18th Century Old Masters Figurative Paintings

French Old MasterLarge 18th Century French Old Master Oil Painting The Penitent Magdalene

19th Century Academic Nude Paintings

Auguste-Clément Chrétien The Education of Achilles by Auguste-Clément Chrétien, Dated 1861

17th Century Old Masters Paintings

Banquet Flemish Italian Paint Oil on canvas Old master 17th Century Veronese Art, 1600-1699

17th Century Old Masters Paintings

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1870s American Impressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

John Singer SargentFigure Bending Over, 1874

18th Century Old Masters Portrait Paintings

Studio of Louis TocquePortrait of a Gentleman in Armour and Mauve Cloak c.1740; Louis Tocque, Painting, circa 1740

Antique Early 1900s Paintings

Depiction of a Medieval Battle Scene, Antique Original Oil Painting

20th Century Unknown Paintings

Magnificent Orientalist Oil on Canvas Painting “Escorting the Cheetah” C. 1920

19th Century Old Masters Animal Paintings

Large Antique 19th Century Dog Painting of a Poodle Inscribed "Zoraida"

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Antique Mid-17th Century Italian Baroque Paintings

Beautiful 17th Century Oil on Canvas by Ciro Ferri

Mid-17th Century Landscape Prints

Ercole BazicaluvaUntitled - Hunting party with falcons in front of an inn., 1638

Antique Late 17th Century Italian Paintings

Bouquet of Carnations Still Life, Attributed to Bartolomeo Bimbi, circa 1700s

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-Century Modern Framed Oil Canvas Painting Signed Cosimo Sponziello 1963 Boat

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Landscape Paintings

Cosimo PrivatoCosimo Privato - Early 20th century Venetian figure painting - Children River , 1940

1930s Romantic Still-life Paintings

F Lysse.The Geranium, Large Mid Century Botanical Oil on board, 1939

Antique Mid-17th Century Italian Paintings

17th Century Landscape Painting Oil on Canvas by Crescenzio Onofri

Antique 18th Century and Earlier Italian Books

4 17th century vellum covered books

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Lithograph of Donna by Salvatore Fiume from the 1960s

Antique 19th Century Italian Neoclassical Paintings

Antique Italian Old Master Painting after Bartolomeo's Madonna & Child, 19thC

Mid-17th Century Old Masters Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Architectural studies, a drawing attributed to the Florentine Baccio del Bianco , 1635 - 1650

Mid-18th Century Rococo Portrait Paintings

Violante Beatrice Siries CerrotiItalian Rococo Oil on Canvas Portrait Painting Young Ladies in Garden Landscape, 1735 circa

1950s Abstract Nude Paintings

Norman RubingtonWoman in a Pose, 1960'S

Antique Mid-19th Century Prints

Antique Print of Cosimo di Giovanni de' Medici by Bonnard, 1860

Antique Mid-19th Century French Animal Sculptures

A French 19th Century Bronze Figure of a Pacing Bull after Giambologna

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Baldassare Franceschini, known as Volterrano
A red chalk study sheet by Baldassare Franceschini, known as Volterrano, 1636-1646

Flemish painter of the 16th-17th century
Annunciation Flemish Paint Oil on canvas Old master 16/17th Century Religious, 1550-1650

Rogelio de Egusquiza y Barrena
"A Reverie During The Ball", 19th Century Oil on Canvas by Rogelio Egusquiza, 1879

French Old Master
Large 18th Century French Old Master Oil Painting The Penitent Magdalene

Auguste-Clément Chrétien
The Education of Achilles by Auguste-Clément Chrétien, Dated 1861

John Singer Sargent
Figure Bending Over, 1874

Studio of Louis Tocque
Portrait of a Gentleman in Armour and Mauve Cloak c.1740; Louis Tocque, Painting, circa 1740

Ercole Bazicaluva
Untitled - Hunting party with falcons in front of an inn., 1638

Cosimo Privato
Cosimo Privato - Early 20th century Venetian figure painting - Children River , 1940

F Lysse.
The Geranium, Large Mid Century Botanical Oil on board, 1939

Violante Beatrice Siries Cerroti
Italian Rococo Oil on Canvas Portrait Painting Young Ladies in Garden Landscape, 1735 circa

Norman Rubington
Woman in a Pose, 1960'S