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

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

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 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.

Irish Mid Century

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century river landscape, Errigal, Co. Donegal, 1950

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century river landscape, Errigal, Co. Donegal, 1950

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century river landscape, Muckish, Co. Donegal, 1950

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century river landscape , Mulroy Bay, Co. Donegal, 1950

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century river landscape, Mulroy Bay, Co. Donegal, 1950

1950s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

F.BryceIrish mid century landscape of Glen Lough, Co. Donegal, 1950

Mid-20th Century Irish Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Midcentury Irish Oval Gold and Black Mirror with Diamanté Décor

Mid-19th Century Victorian Landscape Paintings

Irish Mid 19thCHuge 1850's Irish Romantic Sunset Landscape over Lough Waters & Mountains, c. 1850's

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Irish ImpressionistCarlingford Lough, County Down Ireland, Vintage Irish Impressionist Oil Painting, c. 1950's

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Irish artistThe Mourne Mountains County Down Ireland Signed Original Irish Oil Painting

Mid-19th Century Victorian Landscape Paintings

Irish Victorian19th Century Irish Oil Painting Shepherd & Sheep in Mountain River Landscape

Antique Mid-19th Century Irish Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid-19th Century Irish Waterford Crystal Eight-Arm Chandelier

Mid-20th Century Irish Charles II Barware

Grand Large Pair Irish Sterling Silver Wine Goblets - 1974 - 594 Grams

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish George II Linen Presses

Mid-18th Century Irish Mahogany Linen Press Cabinet

Vintage 1950s Northern Irish Mid-Century Modern Vases

Mid Century Ceramic Vase by Kilrush Ceramics Ireland 1950s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Christopher hallOriginal MID CENTURY Irish Landscape oil painting LETTERARD CO GALWAY IRELAND , 1969

Antique 1830s Irish George IV Wall Mirrors

Mid 19th Century Irish Mahogany Carved Wall Mirror

1960s Impressionist Landscape Paintings

SnyderMid Century Modern Landscape -- Aran, Ireland, 1967

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish Wine Coolers

Mid 18th Century Irish Wine Cooler in Mahogany and Brass

Antique 18th Century Irish George II Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Mid 18th C Irish mahogany tallboy

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish George II Secretaires

18th Century Irish Mahogany Georgian Secretary with Sunflowers and Irish Hound

Mid-19th Century Figurative Prints

Browne Hablot Knight An Irish Wake- Original Etching by PHIZ - Mid 19th Century , Mid 19th Century

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish Georgian Console Tables

18th Century Irish Console Table

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish George III More Dining and Entertaining

Rare 18th Century Irish Walnut Cutlery Stand

Late 20th Century Irish Fireplaces and Mantels

Fantastic Quality Copy of a Mid 18th Century Irish Register Grate in Steel

Antique Late 18th Century Irish George III Buffets

18th Century Irish Georgian Cork Sideboard

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish Georgian Bookcases

18th Century Irish Georgian Palladian Breakfront Bookcase

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Mid 20th Century Irish Portrait of Young Lady Seated Green Scarf, c. 1950's

Antique 1760s Irish Mid-Century Modern Game Tables

18th Century Irish Light Brown Walnut Games Table

Antique Late 19th Century Northern Irish Western European Rugs

19th Century Irish Donegal Green Handmade Wool Rug

Mid-20th Century Irish Rustic Chairs

Irish Vernacular Boat Builders Chair

Mid-20th Century Romantic Landscape Paintings

David OverendCoastal Mountain Cliff Beach Scene Northern Ireland by 20th Century Irish Artist, 1975 Circa

Antique Mid-19th Century Irish High Victorian Dining Room Tables

19th Century Irish Country Squire's Oak Telescopic Dining Table

Antique Mid-19th Century Northern Irish Victorian Center Tables

Pair of 19th Century Irish Mahogany and Satinwood Square Segmentedcentre Tables

Antique Mid-18th Century Irish George II Game Tables

George II Walnut Games Table, Irish

Antique Mid-19th Century Irish Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Antique Irish Mahogany Silver Chest

Antique Mid-19th Century Irish Early Victorian Fireplaces and Mantels

Antique Irish Marble Fireplace

Mid-20th Century Irish Western European Rugs

Large-Sized Antique Irish Donegal Rug

20th Century Northern Irish Pillows and Throws

Vintage Heather Purple Donegal Tweed Irish Wool with Irish Linen Cushion Pillow

Mid-20th Century Irish Arts and Crafts Western European Rugs

F.Bryce
Irish mid century river landscape, Errigal, Co. Donegal, 1950

F.Bryce
Irish mid century river landscape, Errigal, Co. Donegal, 1950

F.Bryce
Irish mid century river landscape, Muckish, Co. Donegal, 1950

F.Bryce
Irish mid century river landscape , Mulroy Bay, Co. Donegal, 1950

F.Bryce
Irish mid century river landscape, Mulroy Bay, Co. Donegal, 1950

F.Bryce
Irish mid century landscape of Glen Lough, Co. Donegal, 1950

Irish Mid 19thC
Huge 1850's Irish Romantic Sunset Landscape over Lough Waters & Mountains, c. 1850's

Irish Impressionist
Carlingford Lough, County Down Ireland, Vintage Irish Impressionist Oil Painting, c. 1950's

Irish artist
The Mourne Mountains County Down Ireland Signed Original Irish Oil Painting

Irish Victorian
19th Century Irish Oil Painting Shepherd & Sheep in Mountain River Landscape

Christopher hall
Original MID CENTURY Irish Landscape oil painting LETTERARD CO GALWAY IRELAND , 1969

Snyder
Mid Century Modern Landscape -- Aran, Ireland, 1967

Browne Hablot Knight
An Irish Wake- Original Etching by PHIZ - Mid 19th Century , Mid 19th Century

David Overend
Coastal Mountain Cliff Beach Scene Northern Ireland by 20th Century Irish Artist, 1975 Circa

Rheal
'Yellow and White Daisies in a Brass Planter', Mid-Century Irish Still Life, 1975

Frank Forty
Mid 20th C. Irish Artist Watercolor - Leaving Madeira - Open Seascape, c. 1950's