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

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 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.

Mid Century Advertisement

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Drawings

"Plastics, " Striking, Original Graphic Design for Midcentury Advertisement

Mid-20th Century French Other Decorative Boxes

Mid-20th Century French Advertisement Box Display

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

SR - European Advertisement Original Artwork, 1946

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Nestlé - Original Artwork for Advertisement, 1946

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

Vintage Ralph Lauren Polo Advertisement Display Lighting

Mid-20th Century Prints

Vintage Advertisement Poster of 'Floryn Dutch Gin'.

Vintage 1980s Czech Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Vintage Lluminated Advertisement Coca-Cola 80s, Czechoslovakia

Vintage 1970s Czech Mid-Century Modern Signs

Large Illuminated Advertisement for HB cigarettes, 1970s

Mid-20th Century American Realist Figurative Prints

Moses SoyerSocial Realist Original Lithograph Advertisement Moses Soyer

Mid-20th Century Prints

Vintage Advertisement Poster of 'Thermos Pudding' 'c.1950'

Mid-20th Century American Decorative Art

Vintage Large Scale "Kodak Film" Advertisement, circa 1950

Mid-20th Century French Posters

Vintage Boho Monumental French “Emmy Magliani” Ballet Advertisement Poster

Vintage 1970s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Vintage Marquee Box Letter F - Metal channel letter - Advertisement

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks

Large Antique Advertisement Wristwatch of the Swiss Watchmaker "Certina"

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Mead SchaefferWoman's Choice for Distinguished Clientele, Packard Advertisement Logo

Early 20th Century Victorian Signs

Vintage Cock Robin Flour AW Hammond Co Round Wood Advertisement Plaque

Early 20th Century Art Deco Decorative Boxes

The Hoover Co Model 450 Advertisement Cardboard Box NRA Sticker Delivery Box

Antique Mid-18th Century Dressers

Very beautiful antique English oak dresser, mid-18th century

Mid-20th Century South African Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Mid-Century Modern Folk Art Eno Antacid Advertising Sign

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Artzy Basheff Mid Century Print for Lycoming / New Ideas Advertising

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Murray HantmanComposition (Abstract Expressionist mid-century gestural action painting), 1951

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid Century Chandelier Designed by Gaetano Sciolari, 1970's

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Italian Mid-Century White Lacquered Metal Pendant by Stilnovo Milano

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

John AthertonThought Provoking Rock Quarry - Mid Century Abstract , 1951

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Books

The Moderns: Mid-century American Graphic Design Hardcover 2017

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Charles Kinghan"Happy Family", Mid Century Sepia Figurative Interior Scene, Illustration Art, c.1940's

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Posters

Mid-20th Century Coney Beach Porthcawl British Pleasure Park Lithograph Poster

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

G. Veronesi Mid-Century Modern Italian Velvet Armchair by ISA, 1950s

Antique Mid-19th Century Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Robust antique English mahogany chest of 5 drawers from the mid-19th century

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid Century Chandelier Designed by Gaetano Sciolari, 1970's (2 available)

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid Century Chandelier Designed by Gaetano Sciolari, 1970's (2 available)

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Loveseats

Mid-Century Modern Loveseat in Iron & Grey Fabric by Carlo Hauner, Brazil 1955

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

PAIR EPIC MODELINE Mid Century Danish Modern Table Lamps ALUMINUM & WALNUT 1958

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

1950s Harvey Probber Slipper chair boucle solid brass legs mid century modern

1960s American Modern Figurative Paintings

Clarence Holbrook CarterMedieval Heads, mid-century figural surrealist acrylic painting, 1966

Antique Late 19th Century English Side Tables

Antique English 1-door cabinet/side table, mid/late 19th century

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

1961, Andre Cordemeyer for Gispen, Mid-Century Dutch Easy Chair No. 1432

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Magazine Racks and Stands

Mid-Century Cesare Lacca Black Lacquered Beech Wood Italian Magazine Rack, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Mid-Century Pair of Ico Parisi Armchairs for Ariberto Colombo, Set of 2, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Moses Soyer
Social Realist Original Lithograph Advertisement Moses Soyer

Mead Schaeffer
Woman's Choice for Distinguished Clientele, Packard Advertisement Logo

Murray Hantman
Composition (Abstract Expressionist mid-century gestural action painting), 1951

John Atherton
Thought Provoking Rock Quarry - Mid Century Abstract , 1951

Charles Kinghan
"Happy Family", Mid Century Sepia Figurative Interior Scene, Illustration Art, c.1940's

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Medieval Heads, mid-century figural surrealist acrylic painting, 1966

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Cicada, Mid-century Figural Surrealist Cleveland School Painting, 1960s, c. 1960s

Forrest Myers
Geometric abstraction mid century modern constructivist painted metal sculpture , 1976

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Night Garden, mid-century figural surrealist acrylic painting, Cleveland School, 1972

Andy Warhol
Historic invitation to mid century book launch of "In the Bottom of My Garden" , 1958

Lorraine Fox
Introspective Woman / Actress on Movie Set. Mid Century Art, Female Illustrator, 1960s

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Surrealist Still Life with Apples, Mid 20th Century Cleveland School Artist, 1940

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Volcano and Arch, Taormina, Sicily, Italy, Mid Century Cleveland School Artist, 1961

Ernest Fiene
NYC Cityscape American Scene WPA Modern Realism Mid 20th Century Architectural, 1930

Clarence Holbrook Carter
Mandala No. 15, Abstract Ovoid Geometrical Mid-Century Painting Cleveland School, 1969

Lorraine Fox
Young Girl Red Dress lost in Thought, Mid Century Woman's Magazine Illustration, 1960s -1970s circa

Arnold Beauvais
Nude Woman - Mid 20th Century Nude Still Life Oil Painting by Arnold Beauvais, Circa 1940