Vintage Modern Perspecta Kent Coffey Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Wheat Ridge, CO
Vintage 1960s Kent Coffey “Perspecta” 9-Drawer Dresser A striking example of American mid-century
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Metal
Vintage Modern Perspecta Kent Coffey Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Wheat Ridge, CO
Vintage 1960s Kent Coffey “Perspecta” 9-Drawer Dresser A striking example of American mid-century
Metal
1960s Kent Coffey Perspecta highboy dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautiful 1960s Kent-Coffey Perspecta highboy dresser. Lots of storage with three lower pull out
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent-Coffey 'Perspecta' Walnut / Rosewood Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A classic Mid-Century Modern highboy dresser from Kent-Coffey’s Perspecta line, showcasing the
Brass
Kent Coffey 'Perspecta' High Chest
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-century modern tall dresser with four wide drawers. Made by Kent Coffey for their 'Perspecta
Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Triple Dresser Credenza Mid-Century Modern
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Baltimore, MD
Mid-century modern long dresser by Kent Coffey, Minimalist Danish Modern inspired profile. A
Rosewood, Walnut
$2,700
H 46 in W 40.25 in D 19.25 in
1960s Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut & Rosewood Sculptural Tall Chest or Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Philadelphia, PA
United States designed and made, this dresser features a great look with modern clean lines and
Rosewood, Walnut
$2,347
H 46 in W 40.25 in D 19.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 5 Drawer Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta mid century walnut and rosewood 5 drawer highboy dresser This dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Designed 'Perspecta' Dresser
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Brasilia style dresser by Kent Coffey for his Perspecta collection. Sculptural front walnut dresser
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta 12-Drawer Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This exceptional Mid-Century Modern Kent-Coffey Perspecta dresser is a masterwork of American
Brass
Kent Coffey Perspecta Low Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Kent Coffey Perspecta low dresser. Walnut body with rosewood details that form the handles
Rosewood, Walnut
Vintage Perspecta Dresser by Kent Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Kent Coffey Perspecta nine drawer dresser is perfect for use in any mid-century home. Please confirm
Walnut
Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for an exceptional rare mid-century Kent Coffey Perspecta 6-drawer dresser. You
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Perspecta Dresser by Kent Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Raleigh, NC
Mid-century nine drawer ‘Perspecta’ dresser manufactured by Kent Coffey, circa 1960s. A mid-century
Wood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser. Featuring a straight
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser. Featuring a straight
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 12-Drawer Dresser. Featuring
Brass
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid-Century Modern Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in West Hartford, CT
Gorgeous Kent Coffey signed highboy wardrobe dresser. All original. From the coveted Perspecta line
Walnut
Mid Century Modern Perspecta Dresser by Kent Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in New York, NY
Stylish Perspecta high chest by Kent - Coffey in clean, original condition. This example features
Elm, Rosewood, Walnut
Mid Century Modern Perspecta Dresser by Kent-Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This newly refinished dresser by Kent-Coffey features a solid walnut construction and beautiful
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Double Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Double Dresser. Featuring a
Wood, Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Sculpted Walnut and Rosewood Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
Offering a very nice Classic Mid-Century Modern designed dresser by Kent Coffey. This piece is part
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid-Century Walnut and Rosewood Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Wilton, CT
Offering a sweet piece of nostalgia with this iconic Kent Coffey Perspecta mid-century dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 12-Drawer Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 12-Drawer Dresser. Featuring
Wood, Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 12-Drawer Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 12-Drawer Dresser. Featuring
Wood, Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta 12-Drawer Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser. Featuring a straight
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 9-Drawer Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut 9-Drawer Dresser. Featuring a
Wood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Collection Walnut and Rosewood Dresser, C. 1950s
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Westport, CT
The highly sought-after "Perspecta Collection" dresser designed by Kent Coffey, executed in walnut
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31.25 in W 77.75 in D 20 in
1960s Vintage Kent Coffey Perspecta Long Dresser Lowboy With Extra Drawers
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Saddle River, NJ
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Long Dresser Lowboy. Add a touch of mid-century
Walnut
Sold
H 46.13 in W 40 in D 19.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid-Century Sculpted Walnut and Rosewood Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
Offering a very nice Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid-Century Modern highboy dresser. The dresser has a
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31 in W 64 in D 19 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Sculpted Walnut and Rosewood Triple Dresser or Credenza
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
Offering a very nice nine-drawer dresser or credenza by Kent Coffey. This piece is from the
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31.25 in W 64 in L 31.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Sculpted Walnut and Rosewood Triple Dresser or Credenza
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
A sleek and stylish Mid-Century Modern nine-drawer dresser or credenza by Kent Coffey. This piece
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31.25 in W 64 in D 19 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Sculpted Walnut and Rosewood Triple Dresser or Credenza
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
Offering a very nice nine-drawer dresser or credenza by Kent Coffey. This piece is from the
Sold
H 31.25 in W 77.5 in L 31.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta MCM Walnut Rosewood 12 Drawer Lowboy Dresser Credenza
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 12 Drawer Lowboy Dresser Credenza Dresser
Brass
Sold
H 31 in W 77.5 in D 20 in
Mid Century Modern Walnut Lowboy Perspecta Dresser by Kent Coffey, c1960s
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Step into the world of mid-century elegance with this exquisite Kent Coffey Lowboy Dresser from the
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31.25 in W 77.5 in D 20.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Rosewood and Walnut 12 Drawer Lowboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta mid century rosewood and walnut 12 drawer lowboy dresser This dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 46 in W 40 in D 19 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 5 Drawer Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta mid century walnut and rosewood 5 drawer highboy dresser This dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 46 in W 40.25 in D 19.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 5 Drawer Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 5 Drawer Highboy Dresser This dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31.25 in W 77.5 in D 20.25 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Rosewood and Walnut 12 Drawer Lowboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta mid century rosewood and walnut 12 drawer lowboy dresser This dresser
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 51.5 in W 42 in D 20 in
1960s Vintage Tall Highboy Dresser Perspecta by Kent Coffey in Brasilia Style
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Saddle River, NJ
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Tall Highboy Dresser by Kent Coffey in Brasilia Style. Elevate your
Walnut
Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Gentlemen’s Chest
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a mid-century Kent Coffey Perspecta walnut gentlemen’s chest. Featuring two
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut High Chest
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut High Chest. Featuring two top
Brass
Kent Coffey Perspecta Armoire/ Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Kent Coffey armoire/ highboy. Tons of storage in this dresser! 3 Pull out drawers to bottom with 2
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta walnut dresser. Featuring two doors that
Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid-Century Modern Ebonized Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in South Bend, IN
A gorgeous Mid-Century Modern sculpted walnut highboy dresser from the Perspecta line by Kent
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta 9-Drawer Walnut Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Dresser. Featuring a straight
Brass
Mid-Century Sculpted Front Dresser by Kent Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This unique Kent Coffey dresser from the Perspecta line features six ample drawers, plus cabinets
Midcentury Kent Coffey Perspecta Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A gorgeous Mid-Century Modern walnut credenza with sculpted rosewood fixtures on the cabinet fronts. This stylish credenza features six large drawers in the centre and six drawers hi...
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Brooklyn, NY
wood grain makes this a beautiful addition to any bedroom. This unique piece comes from the Kent Coffey
Walnut
Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Triple Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut Triple Dresser. Featuring six center
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut and Rosewood Quadruple Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Miami, FL
Beautiful vintage Mid-Century Modern extra long, 12 drawer credenza. It features beautifully grained, bookmatched walnut, signature sculpted, relief carved rosewood accents on the ca...
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut and Rosewood 9 Drawer Lowboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey perspecta walnut and rosewood 9 drawer lowboy dresser This lowboy measures: 64 wide
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31 in W 64 in D 19 in
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 9 Drawer Lowboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood 9 Drawer Lowboy Dresser This lowboy measures
Rosewood, Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Midcentury Walnut and Rosewood Armoire/Highboy
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Wilton, CT
Offering a sweet piece of nostalgia with this iconic Kent Coffey Perspecta midcentury Armoire
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid Century Modern Perspecta Dresser by Kent Coffey, c1960s
Located in Chino Hills, CA
For sale is a magnificent mid-century modern dresser, the 'Perspecta' by the renowned American
Brass
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood Highboy Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Kent Coffey Perspecta Mid Century Walnut and Rosewood Highboy Dresser This highboy measures: 40
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31 in W 78 in D 19 in
1960s Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut & Rosewood Sculptural Long Dresser & Mirror
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Philadelphia, PA
United States designed and made, this dresser features a great look with modern clean lines and
Rosewood, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Kent Coffey Perspecta Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Sacramento, CA
Mid-Century Modern walnut kent coffey perspecta dresser. Dresser has six centre drawers and three
Walnut
Kent Coffey Perspecta Walnut and Rosewood 12 Drawer Dresser
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Asheville, NC
Mid-Century Modern walnut sculpted front 12 drawer dresser with rosewood accents by the Kent Coffey
Rosewood, Walnut
Sold
H 31 in W 78 in D 20 in
SCULPTED Mid Century MODERN CREDENZA / Long Dresser by Kent Coffey Perspecta
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Weehawken, NJ
Sculpted Mid Century Modern Credenza / Long Dresser by Kent Coffey's Perspecta line, c. 1960's
Walnut
Sold
H 31 in W 65.25 in D 18.5 in
SCULPTED Mid Century MODERN CREDENZA / Long Dresser by Kent Coffey Perspecta, c.
By Kent-Coffey
Located in Weehawken, NJ
Sculpted Mid Century Modern Credenza / Long Dresser by Kent Coffey's Perspecta line, c. 1960's
Wood
Pair of Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of Murano glass wall sconces, in stock Fume color and horizontal striation texture Black opaline finials and brass accents Art Deco inspired design. Gives off warm beams of lig...
Brass
$10,000
H 72.5 in W 54 in D 17 in
Broyhill Brasilia Model 6140-72/73 Room Divider Base & Deck Walnut Wall Unit
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Philadelphia, PA
The Broyhill Brasilia line is extensive, spanning multiple rooms across more than 30 models. Throughout our multi-decade experience in this industry, we have seen and handled nearly ...
Walnut
$4,500
H 44.5 in W 40 in D 19 in
'Brasilia' Highboy Dresser by Broyhill Premiere, Refinished, 1960s, Signed
By Broyhill, Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This incredible 'Brasilia' highboy dresser by Broyhill Premiere has been completely refinished and is signed with its original Brasilia label, and ready to grace your home or office....
Brass
$1,452Sale Price|20% Off
H 42 in W 36 in D 19 in
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Four Drawer Highboy Dresser Dovetail Drawers storage
Located in Seattle, WA
An elegant Mid-Century Modern four drawer dresser. The dresser features gorgeous walnut wood grain and sleek mid-century design. It offers ample room for storage, with four dovetaile...
Walnut
Edmond Spence Highboy "Checkerboard" Dresser
By Edmond J. Spence
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This Edmond Spence designed midcentury dresser features stunning marquetry combined with carefully sculpted "Checkerboard" front. Four lower drawers offer spacious storage while top ...
Walnut
$2,240Sale Price / set|20% Off
H 36 in W 43 in D 19 in
Pr Art Deco Art Moderne Dressers by Gilbert Rohde for Herman Miller c 1930's
By Herman Miller, Gilbert Rohde
Located in New York, NY
Chic pair of streamline Art Moderne dressers designed by Gilbert Rohde, for Herman Miller c 1936. The dressers feature opposing right and left cases, each with pale yellow drawer fro...
Birdseye Maple, Walnut
Danish Mid-Century Modern Long Teak Dresser
Located in Baltimore, MD
Attractive long low Danish modern sleek smooth face teak 8 long low dresser. This is a very simple yet modern 8 drawer design. Each drawer has beautiful medium tone stunning teak gra...
Teak
$2,950
H 49.75 in W 44 in D 19 in
Broyhill Brasilia, Mid-Century Modern, Walnut, Brass, Highboy, USA, 1960s
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Manhasset, NY
Broyhill Brasilia, Mid-Century Modern, Walnut, Brass, Highboy Dresser, USA, 1960s Modernist highboy dresser designed and produced by Broyhill Brasilia in the United States circa 196...
Brass
$4,895
H 70.5 in W 66 in D 19 in
Lightly Restored Broyhill Brasilia Walnut & Brass 9-Drawer Long Dresser & Mirror
By Broyhill Brasilia
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This fantastic long dresser & mirror combo was built in the 1970s by high-end manufacturer Broyhill for their Brasilia line of furntiure. Since then, the Brasilia line has become mor...
Brass
$2,750
H 44 in W 35.75 in D 17.75 in
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Highboy Dresser by Richard Artschwager
By Richard Artschwager
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
Walnut
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Walnut Highboy Dresser
By Young Manufacturing Company
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished Materials: Walnut, Steel Handles With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion ...
Steel
American Mid-Century Tall Dresser
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This tall chest features two doors with sculpted wood design that conceal three wide drawers. Two extra drawers below with brass handles add to the bedroom storage. This is a modern ...
Walnut
K12 Man's Chest by John Van Koert for Drexel 'Profile' Collection
By John Van Koert, Drexel
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-century modern K12 Man’s Chest designed by John Van Koert for Drexel’s iconic “Profile” collection, circa 1950s. Crafted in richly grained walnut with sculptural, jewelry-inspire...
Chrome
$7,475 / set
H 25.25 in W 24 in D 16 in
Pair of Mid-Century Perspecta Nightstands W/ Sculptural Front by Kent Coffey
By Kent-Coffey
Located in New York, NY
This elegant pair of Mid-Century Modernist Perspecta nightstands by Kent Coffey, hailing from America circa 1960, exemplifies the refined aesthetics and craftsmanship of the era. Kno...
Wood
$3,000
H 45.5 in W 42 in D 19.5 in
Restored Mid-Century Modern Link Taylor Solid Walnut Highboy Dresser
Located in West Chester, PA
An amazing mcm tall chest of seven drawers crafted from solid American Black Walnut wood by Link Taylor. Professionally restored and refinished in satin clear hand rubbed finish. Ori...
Walnut
Vintage American Walnut Highboy Dresser
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This unique American walnut dresser features stunning vintage craftsmanship. From rounded corner tapered legs to sculpted cabinet front, this impressive ten drawer dresser offers amp...
Walnut
Established in 1907 by Finley H. Coffey and Dr. A.A. Kent, a contemporary and competitor of furniture makers John Bernhardt and James Broyhill, the Kent-Coffey Manufacturing Company in Lenoir, North Carolina, developed a name for itself by designing and mass-producing durable, affordable and stylish bedroom furniture, dressers, tables and other items.
Consider Kent-Coffey a precursor to IKEA, with sturdy oak and mahogany furniture rather than particleboard structures and an American-design bent rather than a Swedish one. The company's mid-century modern furniture, under the leadership of Finley’s son Harold, took off. A magazine ad from the era for the brand’s Perspecta collection positioned a minimalist bedroom set front and center, with its walnut and rosewood dresser, an elegant nine-drawer piece that rested on tapered legs and featured gorgeous sculptural details carved into its drawer fronts, occupying most of the page’s real estate. The materials for Kent-Coffey furniture were sourced locally, as the company touted its relationship with the Lilly Company in nearby High Points, North Carolina, as a supplier of its mahogany, for example.
In 1964, Kent-Coffey Manufacturing Company was sold to Magnavox (but reportedly operated as a wholly owned subsidiary thereafter), and later, in 1983, the company became part of the furniture branch of the Singer Company (of the sewing-machine fame). Singer shuttered its furniture division in the late 1990s.
Today, as is the case with most of the sophisticated furniture designed in postwar America, work that originated at Kent-Coffey is hard to come by.
Previously owned walnut headboards and vintage bedroom dressers with Formica tops from the company’s Perspecta line and sandalwood continental dressers, for example, are highly valued by collectors. Kent-Coffey’s various mid-century modern lines — such as Goldenaire and Town House — were always clearly branded with identifiers such as drawer markings or stamps on the underside of its coveted end tables.
Find vintage Kent-Coffey case pieces and cabinets, nightstands and other furniture on 1stDibs.
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
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
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.
Antique, new and vintage dressers are a staple in any household. Whether it’s a 19th-century solid pine or oak Welsh kitchen dresser you’re using to store tableware or a Broyhill Brasilia highboy in your bedroom, these furniture fixtures are essential for making the most of your space.
The first step in finding the perfect dresser is considering your particular needs. Most tall dressers offer anywhere from five to seven drawers, essentially allowing for the organization of an entire wardrobe, while shorter, waist-height dresser varieties can be equipped with a convenient vanity mirror.
A highboy dresser is usually around six feet tall, with some versions standing even taller at seven feet or so. Highboys, which began to appear with frequency during the early 17th century in England, are essentially very tall dressers with lots of drawers, whereas a lowboy is a different type of storage furniture in that it's a dressing table with one or two rows of drawers.
When shopping for your antique or vintage dresser, consider those that bear the hallmarks of solid construction. Good furniture means making an investment, and solid hardwood pieces of maple, walnut or cherry will prove far more durable than a bedroom dresser made of particleboard.
If you’re looking for a mid-century modern case piece that boasts a subdued pairing of wood grains and uncomplicated drawer pulls, browse elegant dressers designed by Florence Knoll, Harvey Probber, Paul McCobb and other furniture makers associated with the celebrated style on 1stDibs.
Dressers characterized by bolder designs are also popular: Not only will your new piece of furniture be a storage solution, but it'll also make a statement.
Art Deco furniture makers preferred to work with dark woods and typically incorporated decorative embellishments. An ornately carved French or Italian Art Deco dresser complete with vanity mirror and cabriole scrolled feet might better complement the other pieces in your home. Alternatively, if you favor sumptuous antique furniture with curving lines and floral flourishes, the collection on 1stDibs also includes sophisticated 1800s-era Victorian walnut dressers and washstands with marble tops.
After all, a good case piece isn’t merely for minimizing clutter in your space. The style of your chosen dresser and its specific attributes should add something to your decor and your home. Modern creations include one-of-a-kind shapes, like the venturesome chests of drawers in leather, marble and wood crafted by the likes of Roberto Cavalli.
Explore a broad array of antique and vintage dressers today on 1stDibs.