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

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.

What is a mid-century chair?

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.

What is mid century furniture?

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.

What is mid-century jewelry?

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.

What does mid century mean?

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.

What is a mid-century sofa?

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.

What is mid-century artwork?

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.

What is mid century decor?

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.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

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.

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

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.

How do you identify mid century lamps?

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.

Why is mid century modern popular?

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.

What makes a dresser mid-century?

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Is rattan mid-century modern?

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.

What time is considered mid-century??

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.

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

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.

Is mid-century modern timeless?

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.

What does mid century modern mean?

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.

What is mid century modern furniture?

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.

Is Eames mid-century modern?

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.

Italian Mid Century

Italian Brass Chandelier

1950s Italian Sconces

Midcentury Italian Wall Mirror

Italian Iron Furniture

Italian Mid Century Ceramic Llama

$1,450

Italian Mid Century Ceramic Llama

Located in Houston, TX

Italian Mid Century Ceramic Llama. This whimsical Italian mid century ceramic llama sculpture or figure was expertly created with attention to detail and fully marked with the makers...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Hollywood Regency Animal Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Mid century Modern console

$2,024

Italian Mid century Modern console

Located in Miami, FL

Italian Mid Century modern Wicker Console

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Materials

Wicker

Italian Mid-Century Side Table

$9,500

Italian Mid-Century Side Table

Located in Dallas, TX

Rare Italian mid-century modern specimen side table. Italian mid-century modern specimen side table is a rare gem that showcase exquisite minimalist elegance.

Category

Vintage 1960s Side Tables

Materials

Maple

Italian Mid-Century Inlaid Cabinet

$12,000

Italian Mid-Century Inlaid Cabinet

Located in Dallas, TX

Rare Italian Mid-century designer textured laminate and brass inlaid cabinet.

Category

Vintage 1960s Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Sectional

$2,000

Italian Mid-Century Sectional

Located in Red Lion, PA

Vintage original Italian mid-century sofa/sectional. Made up of two pieces that fit together at an angle creating a curve shape, sitting on tapered wood legs.

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Wood

Italian Mid-Century Iron Armillary

$2,100

Italian Mid-Century Iron Armillary

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century modern painted iron armillary globe with gold Continents supported on a round black base.

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Globes

Materials

Iron

Italian Mid-Century Sycamore Sideboard

$24,000

Italian Mid-Century Sycamore Sideboard

By Pier Luigi Colli

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1930s) sycamore 4 door sideboard on raised tapered legs with brass trim (Attributed PIERLUIGI COLLI, Turin, circa 1950).

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Sycamore

Ebonized Italian Mid Century Bench

$5,000

Ebonized Italian Mid Century Bench

Located in New York, NY

An ebonized Italian Mid Century bench. Ebonized Beech wood with tapered legs and carved detaials on the armrests.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Wood

Italian Mid-Century Framed Lithograph

$845

Italian Mid-Century Framed Lithograph

Located in Kent, Dover

An Italian mid-century lithograph of striking colours, in an ebonised framed with marbled backing paper.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Paintings

Materials

Fruitwood

Italian Mid-Century Ornate Floral Mirror

$475

Italian Mid-Century Ornate Floral Mirror

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century shaped small wall / vanity mirror with Venetian Murano clear glass scroll embellished edges bearing floral appliques

Category

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

Materials

Glass

Italian Mid-Century Glass Chandelier

$18,500

Italian Mid-Century Glass Chandelier

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1940's) clear glass 6 arm chandelier with beehive form shades and bottom bowl with a brass finial bottom and a tiered center post.

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Glass

Italian Mid Century Modern Mirror

$3,450

Italian Mid Century Modern Mirror

By Romeo Rega

Located in Houston, TX

Italian Mid Century Modern Mirror. This unusual large round Italian mirror (39.5 Inches) has a cream background with an interesting design of alternating circles in neutral tones.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Materials

Composition

Italian Mid-century Trapezoidal Brass Mirror

$2,056

Italian Mid-century Trapezoidal Brass Mirror

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Italian Mid-century Trapezoidal Brass Mirror

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Walnut Dresser

$7,800

Italian Mid-Century Walnut Dresser

Located in Dallas, TX

Handsome Italian Mid-Century Modern walnut and brass dresser.

Category

Vintage 1960s Dressers

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Decorative Oblong Bowl

$1,250

Italian Mid-Century Decorative Oblong Bowl

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century decorative oblong bowl featuring pomegranate and cherries with a lion head handles (Signed on bottom: Da Lena Ravello) Good condition consistent with age and use

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls

Italian Mid-Century Rosewood Sideboard

$37,500

Italian Mid-Century Rosewood Sideboard

By Dassi

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1950s) rosewood sideboard with herringbone design veneer with 2 side doors flanking a drop down door over 3 drawers with a low backrail and green glass top (DASSI)

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Modern Sideboards

Materials

Rosewood, Glass

Italian Mid Century Modern Leather Settee

$9,800

Italian Mid Century Modern Leather Settee

Located in Houston, TX

Italian mid century modern leather settee: :newly upholstered in a dark olive with cognac welt and buttons.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Settees

Materials

Metal

Italian Mid-century Patchwork Side Cabinet

$3,450

Italian Mid-century Patchwork Side Cabinet

Located in Dallas, TX

Italian Mid-century patch work oak side cabinet. An Italian mid‑century patchwork oak side cabinet is one of those pieces that quietly steals the room—warm, geometric, sculptural, an...

Category

Vintage 1960s Cabinets

Materials

Oak

Italian Mid-Century Wrought Iron Armillary

$1,850

Italian Mid-Century Wrought Iron Armillary

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Modern wrought iron armillary globe with a center sun surrounded by 9 movable planetary rings on a platform base.

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Scientific Instruments

Materials

Iron, Wrought Iron

Italian Mid-Century Nightstands, 1950 Maple

$1,079 / set

Italian Mid-Century Nightstands, 1950 Maple

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Italian mid-century nightstands 1950 maple, pink mirror and glass shelf as, delizati elegant and current furnishing.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Materials

Brass

6 Italian Mid Century Dining Chairs

$2,320Sale Price|20% Off

6 Italian Mid Century Dining Chairs

Located in Pasadena, TX

6 Italian Mid Century Modern Dining Chairs Solid Wood Frame Tapered Legs Refinished Reupholstery Recommended

Category

Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Italian Mid-Century Wall Mounted Console

$19,600

Italian Mid-Century Wall Mounted Console

Located in New York, NY

Italian Mid-Century wall mounted console table. Original clear glass top supported by curved sycamore legs with ornate patinated brass accents and details.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Murano Glass Egg Lamp

$2,400

Italian Mid-Century Murano Glass Egg Lamp

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Murano glass egg lamp with a golden spiral hue design and sitting on a stepped brass base

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid Century Brass Chandelier

$4,763

Italian Mid Century Brass Chandelier

Located in London, GB

A large Italian Mid century chandelier in Brass with Ivory white painted arms and stem. the tapered centre stem supporting eight arms with a brass circular ring support the accents i...

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Modern Marquetry Commode

$42,500

Italian Mid-Century Modern Marquetry Commode

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Modern marquetry commode with a rectangular top above a case inlaid with greek key decoration and line banding accented with bronze sabots, pulls and escutcheons,...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Metal, Bronze

Italian Mid Century Modern Tapestry circa 1960s

$1,550

Italian Mid Century Modern Tapestry circa 1960s

Located in Atlanta, GA

Italian Mid Century Modern Tapestry, Italy, circa 1960s.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Fabric, Textile

1960's Italian Mid-Century floral sofa

$3,467

1960's Italian Mid-Century floral sofa

Located in Diest, BE

Superbe elegant Italian Mid-Century 1960's floral sofa. Great condition.

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Metal

Italian Mid-Century Table Lamp in Wood

$1,160Sale Price / set|20% Off

Italian Mid-Century Table Lamp in Wood

Located in Ciudad Autónoma Buenos Aires, AR

Italian Mid-Century Table Lamp in Wood

Category

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

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid Century Pink Ceramic Embossed Floral Vase

$695

Italian Mid Century Pink Ceramic Embossed Floral Vase

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian mid century pink ceramic embossed floral vase Italy, mid century This precious vase provides the perfect pop of pink and will brighten any space Textured ceramic vessel adorn...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Italian Mid-Century Modern Nightstands with Brass Handles, 1960s

$2,659

Italian Mid-Century Modern Nightstands with Brass Handles, 1960s

Located in London, GB

These tables are balanced, elegant, and minimalist - consistent with Italian mid-century modern furniture. Please take a look at all our pictures to see the storage space and the lo...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Materials

Wood

Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Style Glass Sideboard

$5,879

Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Style Glass Sideboard

Located in Gloucestershire, GB

Contemporary Italian Mid-Century style sideboard. Made from wood and covered in green coloured glass.

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Ch...

Materials

Glass, Wood

Italian Mid-Century Ceiling Lamp Stilnovo Design

$2,961

Italian Mid-Century Ceiling Lamp Stilnovo Design

By Stilnovo

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Italian Mid-Century ceiling lamp Stilnovo design.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Sconces Italian Mid-Century Design, 1950s Minimal

$705 / item

Sconces Italian Mid-Century Design, 1950s Minimal

By Arredoluce

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Sconces Italian Mid-Century design 1950s minimal.

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Brass

Coffee Table Italian Mid-Century Processing Decalage

$757Sale Price|74% Off

Coffee Table Italian Mid-Century Processing Decalage

By Decalage

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Coffee table Italian mid-century processing decalage, scenes of Egyptian graphites, resin finishing.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Metal, Brass

Italian Mid-Century Brass Saucer Chandelier

$1,800

Italian Mid-Century Brass Saucer Chandelier

Located in Queens, NY

"Italian Mid-Century brass chandelier in a brasss cone shape design havng a tiered fluted design with a frosted shade with a finial on the bottom with an adjustable rope chain (heigh...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Pair of Italian Mid-Century lounge chairs

$16,000 / set

Pair of Italian Mid-Century lounge chairs

Located in New York, NY

Pair of Vintage Italian Mid-Century Chairs upholstered in Boucle Fabric.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Brass

Pair of Italian Mid-Century Nightstands

$2,800Sale Price|20% Off

Pair of Italian Mid-Century Nightstands

Located in North Bergen, NJ

A beautiful pair of Italian Mid-Century Modern nightstands. Two drawers on one of them and swinging doors on the other.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Italian Mid-Century Crystal Sphere with Air Bubbles

$650

Italian Mid-Century Crystal Sphere with Air Bubbles

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian Mid-Century crystal sphere with air bubbles throughout.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Modern Globes

Materials

Crystal

Italian Mid-Century Table Coffee Oval Form

$1,082

Italian Mid-Century Table Coffee Oval Form

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Italian mid-century table coffee oval form, rosewood and inlaid with precious woods.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Melchiorre Bega Italian Mid-Century Modern Walnut Cabinet

$14,000

Melchiorre Bega Italian Mid-Century Modern Walnut Cabinet

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Modern walnut cabinet (MELCHIORRE BEGA).

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Wood, Walnut

Vintage Italian Mid Century Travertine Table Lamp

$1,800

Vintage Italian Mid Century Travertine Table Lamp

Located in West Hollywood, CA

Italian Mid Century Century Table Lamp Sourced by Martyn Lawrence Bullard from Italy Hardwired, and fitted with linen lampshade

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Travertine

Original Table Lamp Italian Mid-Century Italian Design

$252Sale Price / item|56% Off

Original Table Lamp Italian Mid-Century Italian Design

By Stilnovo

Located in Palermo, Sicily

Original table lamp Italian mid-century Italian design, Stilnovo style.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Italian Mid-Century Gilt Metal Tassle Bar Cart

$2,850

Italian Mid-Century Gilt Metal Tassle Bar Cart

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Rope and Tassel design two tiered bar-cart with a glass top and shelf on casters

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Glass

Italian Mid-Century Sunburst Gilt Wall Sconce

$3,250

Italian Mid-Century Sunburst Gilt Wall Sconce

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1940s) gilt metal wall sconce with sunburst shape and wavy spoke design.

Category

20th Century Italian Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Metal

Italian Mid Century Modern Credenza/Dresser/Sideboard

$2,220

Italian Mid Century Modern Credenza/Dresser/Sideboard

Located in Red Lion, PA

Beautiful Italian Mid Century Credenza Book matched wood veneer.

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Wood

Italian Mid Century Fire Place Tools

$2,950

Italian Mid Century Fire Place Tools

Located in Dallas, TX

Nice set of Italian Mid Century Modern brass fire place tools.

Category

Vintage 1960s Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Materials

Brass

Osvaldo Borsani Italian Mid-Century Rosewood Sideboard

$28,500

Osvaldo Borsani Italian Mid-Century Rosewood Sideboard

By Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1950s) rosewood sideboard with 5 teak doors having a rectangular brass handle and supported on low tapered square legs (Attributed to OSVALDO BORSANI)

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Archimede Seguso Italian Mid-Century Modern Chartreuse Bird

$480Sale Price|20% Off

Archimede Seguso Italian Mid-Century Modern Chartreuse Bird

By Archimede Seguso

Located in LOS ANGELES, CA

Archimede Seguso Italian Mid-Century Modern Chartreuse Bird

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Glass

Italian Mid-Century Round Camer Glass Chandelier

$4,200

Italian Mid-Century Round Camer Glass Chandelier

By Camer Glass

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century round Camer glass chandelier that drops in a circular pattern.

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Crystal

Italian Mid-Century Modern Lucite Vanity Table Mirror

$690Sale Price|40% Off

Italian Mid-Century Modern Lucite Vanity Table Mirror

Located in Haddonfield, NJ

Italian Mid-Century Modern Lucite vanity table mirror.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Mirrors

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Italian Mid-Century Fontana Arte Wall Mirror

$9,500

Italian Mid-Century Fontana Arte Wall Mirror

By Fontana Arte

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century wall mirror consisting of a frame having layers of 2 black mirrors and 1 clear mirror overlapping one another (Attributed to: FONTANA ARTE) slightly chipped on a...

Category

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

Materials

Glass

Italian Mid-Century Round Ebonized Coffee Table

$3,950

Italian Mid-Century Round Ebonized Coffee Table

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century (1940s) ebonized round coffee table with a smaller round shelf supported by a stretcher and four tapered legs.

Category

Early 20th Century Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood, Ebony

Vittorio Dassi Italian Mid-Century Mahogany Sideboard

$35,000

Vittorio Dassi Italian Mid-Century Mahogany Sideboard

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Queens, NY

Italian mid-century (1940s) mahogany sideboard with 4 maple parquetry doors centering a Pair of ebonized doors and supported on 4 ebonized legs over a platform base (Attributed to VI...

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Maple, Wood

Rare Italian Mid-Century Modern Sideboard/ Bar / Console by Paolo Buffa

$15,900

Rare Italian Mid-Century Modern Sideboard/ Bar / Console by Paolo Buffa

By Paolo Buffa

Located in New York, NY

An Elegant, Timeless and Enchanting Italian Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical cabinet / bar / sideboard / credenza / console / sofa table by Paolo Buffa, circa 1950.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Marble

Italian Mid-Century Modern Gold Coffee Table

$630

Italian Mid-Century Modern Gold Coffee Table

Located in North Bergen, NJ

An Italian Mid Century Modern Laqured coffee table having gold gilt foil and ebonize lacquer decorated top supported on metal legs, circa 1960.

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Italian Mid-Century Marble Top Coffee Table

$1,650

Italian Mid-Century Marble Top Coffee Table

Located in New York, NY

Italian mid-century marble top coffee table. Vintage Italian moderne table with carved inset grey green and white marble top.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Marble

Italian Mid-Century Wood and Leather Shelf

$4,650

Italian Mid-Century Wood and Leather Shelf

Located in Dallas, TX

Unusual Italian mid-century wood and leather etagere shelf.

Category

Vintage 1960s Bookcases

Materials

Leather, Wood

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Italian Mid Century For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal Italian mid century for your home. Each Italian mid century for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, glass and brass. There are 90389 variations of the antique or vintage Italian mid century you’re looking for, while we also have 2611 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect Italian mid century — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each Italian mid century bearing Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency or Art Deco hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one Italian mid century that is appealing in its simplicity, but Stilnovo, Venini and Cassina produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is an Italian Mid Century?

Prices for an Italian mid century can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $1 and can go as high as $982,587, while the average can fetch as much as $2,800.

A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, 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.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. 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.

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, 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 — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Questions About Italian Mid Century

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
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.
What is a mid-century chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
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.
What is mid century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What is mid-century jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What does mid century mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What is a mid-century sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
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.
What is mid-century artwork?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What is mid century decor?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
How can you tell if furniture is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.
How can you tell if a chair is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.
How do you identify mid century lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
Why is mid century modern popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What makes a dresser mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.
Is rattan mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
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.
What time is considered mid-century??
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
Is Mondrian mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
Is mid-century modern timeless?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
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.
What does mid century modern mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What is mid century modern furniture?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
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.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during 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.
Is Eames mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
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.