Mid Century Atomic
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Mid-Century Atomic Chandeliers with 12 Lights, 3 Pieces Available
Located in Antwerp, BE
3 Midcentury atomic chandeliers with 12 handblown opaline glass globes.
12-armed molecular space
Category
Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Atomic Serving Dish
Located in Charleston, SC
Jetsons for dinner. Aluminum and wood. Three pieces: bowl, lid, base. All nearly mint. The wood and gold areas are in excellent condition. It would be a great serving piece for ent...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces
Materials
Aluminum
Mid Century Atomic Brass Table Lamp
Located in New York, NY
Early Mid Century Brass Atomic Table Lamp. A 1950's Brass Torch Table lamp having the popular
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Aluminum, Brass
Mid century atomic coat stand, 1950s
Located in HEVERLEE, BE
Fabulous XL modernist multicolour atomic coat stand.
This remarkable coat stand has 12 coloured
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands
Materials
Metal
Lightolier Midcentury Atomic Pendant Light
By Lightolier
Located in San Diego, CA
Lightolier midcentury, vintage atomic style pendant. The frame is metal (shiny chrome) with clear
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Atomic Era Tweed + Rattan Sofa
By France & Søn, Hvidt & Mølgaard, Peter Hvidt, Orla Mølgaard-Nielsen
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Send your living room back in time with this fantastic mid-century sofa! Sporting funky atomic-age
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Upholstery, Rattan, Wood, Hardwood, Oak
Midcentury Atomic Sputnik Chandelier, 1970s
By Drukov, Gaetano Sciolari
Located in Praha, CZ
- Very nice style of lighting
- Marked
- Rare type.
Category
Vintage 1970s Czech Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
Midcentury Atomic Sputnik Chandelier, Germany, 1970s
Located in Praha, CZ
- Very nice style of lighting
- Rare type
- Space Age style
- Very good original condition.
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid Century Atomic Ranch Thonet Style Arm Chairs
By Thonet
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
seating with swooping bent wood arms, and nicely splayed legs. Low profile lending to Atomic Ranch design
Category
20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Leather, Wood
Mid-Century Atomic Age Fifties Coffee Table, 1950s
Located in Hemiksem, VAN
. The style of this side table is also called 'rockabilly', 'atomic age', or 'space-age'.
Germany, 1950
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Brass
Set of Four Large Mid-Century Atomic Sconces
Located in Los Angeles, CA
very nice set of four 1950s atomic sconces, we have also another pair very similar, price is for the
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass, Metal
All Original Condition Mid-Century Atomic Lamp Pair
Located in Bridgeport, CT
A pair of 1950's-1960's black and gilt metal table lamps in all original working condition. The pair have ring bases from which three rods join a round wire cage towards the top.
Ea...
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Pair of Mid-Century Atomic Wall Lights, 1960s
Located in Oslo, NO
Brilliant pair of wall lamps in brass, plexiglass and decorated glass shades.
Most likely designed and made in Norway from circa 1960 second half.
Both lamps are fully working ...
Category
Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass
American Midcentury Atomic Age Iron Fruit Basket
By Frederic Weinberg
Located in San Diego, CA
1950s Solid iron fruit basket bowl in black enameled finish natural wear great design and shape.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Baskets
Materials
Iron
Midcentury Atomic California Pottery Ashtray by Sascha Brastoff
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in San Diego, CA
number on underside. Would make a wonderful addition to any Mid-Century Modern space.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays
Materials
Pottery
American Midcentury Atomic Age Ice Crusher by Icomatic
Located in San Diego, CA
A beautiful design Industrial Atomic age, in white on white, circa 1950s with wall attachment if
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Barware
Materials
Metal, Chrome
American Midcentury Atomic Age Solid Brass Low Bowl
By Buenilum
Located in San Diego, CA
A rare centerpiece solid brass perforated polished brass with footed base circa 1950s made by Buenilum brass company. We polished the top and left some patina in the bottom.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Brass
American Mid Century Atomic Age Classic Fruit/Snack Bowl Centerpiece
By Bauer Pottery
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful 3-tier ceramic bowls in pink and black combo with a metal handle, classic atomic age
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces
Materials
Metal
American Mid Century Atomic Age Walnut & Brass Wall Thermometer & Baromether
By Springfield Armory
Located in San Diego, CA
A classic wall Thermometer by Springfield circa 1950s, nice walnut case in great condition working.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Nautical Objects
Materials
Brass
American Mid Century Atomic Age Rare Spaghetti Fiberglass Pendant Lamp
Located in San Diego, CA
A rare color and great condition on this beautiful groove purple pendant spaghetti lamp, circa 1950s with a white chain 10-foot cord in perfect condition.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Fiberglass
Midcentury Atomic Lucite and Steel Bar Tool Set , 1960s
By Maxwell Phillips
Located in San Diego, CA
handle but does not distract from its cool factor and beauty. A sophisticated look in Atomic age design
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Barware
Materials
Stainless Steel
American Mid Century Atomic Age Iron & Wicker Barstool by Arthur Umanoff
By Arthur Umanoff
Located in San Diego, CA
Atomic age single barstool designed by Arthur Umanoff original fabric and condition swivel great
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs
Materials
Iron
American Mid-Century atomic Age Walnut & Brass Laminate Floor Table Lamp
By Wolfe & Co.
Located in San Diego, CA
Simple Classic Mid-Century Modern atomic age floor table lamp, circa 1950s in excellent condition
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass
1950s American Mid-Century Atomic Age Pair of Aluminum Wall Sconces
By Lightolier
Located in San Diego, CA
Hard to find pair of brushed aluminum wall sconces, we cleaned them and rewired them, multidirectional shade, the arm moves from side to side, great for indoors or outdoors. with bl...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Aluminum
Vintage Mid-Century Atomic Wire Mesh Black Table Top Book Shelf
Located in San Diego, CA
Incredibly clean and modernist lines define this unique table top book shelf. This simple piece carries strong lines that manifest its era and carry onto your style.
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Bookends
Materials
Metal
American Mid Century Atomic Age Patinated Brass Wall Mounted Fireplace Tools Set
Located in San Diego, CA
1950's Atomic mid-century age.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots
Materials
Brass, Iron
H 26 in W 12 in D 3 in
1950's American Mid Century atomic Age Folding Table in Walnut & Naugahyde
Located in San Diego, CA
versatile and practical American mid-century modern Folding table with cream color naugahyde top
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Naugahyde, Walnut
American Mid Century Atomic Age Rare New 1960's Wall / Ceiling Lamp
By Sears, Roebuck & Company
Located in San Diego, CA
A beautiful gold leaf-decorated glass shade with metal frame atomic age, wall sconce or ceiling
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Metal
Midcentury Atomic Sputnik Space Age Chrome Opaline Nine-Light Chandelier, 1960s
By Fischer Leuchten
Located in NUEMBRECHT, NRW
This beautiful chandelier was designed and manufactured in Germany in the 1960s by Fischer Leuchten. It is made of chrome-plated metal and has got nine white frosted satinated glass ...
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Free Shipping
H 27.56 in Dm 20.48 in
Atlanta Midcentury Atomic Age Sunburst Brass Table Desk Clock, Western Germany
By Atlanta Clock Co.
Located in Vienna, AT
An amazing midcentury triangular design starburst table or desk clock from the 1950s. Executed by Atlanta, Western Germany. Made of brass with a beautiful base, brass rays and a love...
Category
Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Metal, Brass
H 10.5 in W 11.5 in D 2.75 in
Mid Century Atomic Age Sling Chair in Leather, Iron & Chrome by Tony Paul
By Tony Paul
Located in San Diego, CA
A unique single sling chair in chrome pipping, with a solid iron combination, Freshly Recovered in Black leather and riveted, the chair is in its original condition circa 1970s, the ...
Category
Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Chrome, Iron
1950s Sail Fish Bowl by Herb Cohen Studio Pottery Dish Midcentury Atomic
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Wonderful rare handmade piece from Herb Cohen's ceramic studio. Cohen worked for Hyalyn most of his career. Signature style dates this piece before 1959.
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Stoneware
H 2.25 in W 9.25 in D 5.5 in
Atomic Mid Century Table Lamp by Lightolier att. to Thurston c. 1950/ 60's
By Lightolier, Gerald Thurston
Located in New York, NY
Architectural Mid Century, Atomic, Space Age jack form table lamp, by Lightolier, design attributed
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid Century 1960's Stainless Steel Bullet Salt and Pepper Shakers
Located in Leicester, GB
Mid century atomic bullet shaped salt and pepper shakers. This set is from the mid 20th century
Category
Mid-20th Century English Tableware
Materials
Stainless Steel
Midcentury Austrian Loop Umbrella Stand, 1950s
Located in NUEMBRECHT, NRW
This midcentury atomic umbrella stand was designed and manufactured in Austria in the 1950s.
It
Category
Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands
Materials
Aluminum, Iron
1950s Perforated Metal Mesh Atomic Dish Ashtray Nº S30 Richard Galef Ravenware
By Ravenware, Heath Ceramics, Charles and Ray Eames, Richard Galef
Located in San Diego, CA
inset. The end result is a piece that manifests all the elements of 1950s Atomic mid-century design
Category
Vintage 1950s American Decorative Bowls
Materials
Metal
1970s Retro Vintage Freestanding Dijkstra Bowl Shaped Reading Floor Lamp
By Dijkstra
Located in Markington, GB
designed in mushroom design. Typical midcentury atomic design.
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 51.19 in W 7.88 in D 15.75 in
1970s Retro Vintage Freestanding Dijkstra Mushroom Shaped Two Lights Floor Lamp
By Dijkstra
Located in Markington, GB
designed in mushroom design. Typical midcentury Atomic design.
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 59.06 in W 11.82 in D 35.44 in
1970s Retro Vintage Freestanding Dijkstra Mushroom Shaped Two Lights Floor Lamp
By Dijkstra
Located in Markington, GB
table lamps are designed in Mushroom design. Typical midcentury Atomic design.
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 70.87 in W 7.88 in D 43.31 in
Adrian Pearsall 'Gondola' Button-Tufted Chairs for Craft Associates
By Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates
Located in Dallas, TX
mid-century “Atomic Age.” Adrian Pearsall is credited with the creation of long and low gondola sofas
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Wood
Original Mid Century Cityscape Oil Painting on Board. 1950s Heller MCM Decor
By Heller
Located in Peoria, AZ
spectacular decor acquisition for your Manhattan Penthouse, Gotham Manor or Mid Century Atomic Dwelling!
A
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Wood
Adrian Pearsall 'Cloud' Sofa in Illustrative Red Fabric
By Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates
Located in Waalwijk, NL
”. Pearsall designed the furniture and became a profound furniture designer during the mid-century “Atomic Age
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Fabric, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Style Pendant
Located in New York, NY
Mid-Century Modern Atomic style pendant chandelier in chromed metal with surrounding opaque glass
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Wood Sculpture
Located in North Miami, FL
This amazing vintage French atomic wood sculpture is one the largest one seen. It is Mid-Century
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Style Atomic Satellite Chandelier
Located in New York, NY
Mid-century modern style chrome pendant, with six bulbs grouped around a central support.
Category
20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Italian Mid Century Brass & Wood 'Atomic' Lamp
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Italian mid century brass & wood 'Atomic' lamp
Italy, 1950s
A unique mid-century lamp, the lamp
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
1950's Mid-Century Modern Atomic Dresser
By Heywood-Wakefield Co.
Located in Burbank, CA
Vintage original Mid-Century Modern dresser for sale. Manufactured in the 1950's, and constructed
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Italian Brass Armed Atomic Chandelier
Located in Malton, GB
This is a stunning mid century Italian atomic chandelier. This is hugely decorative and extremely
Category
Mid-20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Brass
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Style Chrome Floor Lamp
Located in New York, NY
Mid-Century Modern atomic style 'eyeball' chrome floor lamp with tripod base. 59" H.
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Chrome
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Atomic Orange Metal Stool
By Meadowcraft
Located in Wilmington, DE
Offered is a vintage Mid-Century Modern atomic orange metal stool, circa 1960's. This piece is made
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Wrought Iron
Mid century Italian brass and coloured Atomic light
Located in Malton, GB
This is a stunning mid century Italian atomic pendant light with coloured light shades. Overall
Category
20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Machine Age Mid Century Brass Atomic Chandelier
Located in New York, NY
An American Brass Machine Age / Mid Century chandelier. Machine age Mid Century chandelier with
Category
Vintage 1940s Machine Age Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Vintage Atomic Mid-Century Modern Style Accent Table
Located in Seattle, WA
Vintage Atomic Mid-Century Modern Style accent table
Dimensions. 19 1/2 W ; 15 D ; 23 3/4 H.
Category
Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern End Tables
Materials
Wood
Mid Century Chandelier Sputnik / Atomic, Germany, 1970s.
By Kaiser Leuchten
Located in Praha, CZ
- very nice style of lighting
- rare type
- representative.
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
2 Mid-Century Modern Atomic Spun Lucite Green Spaghetti Table Lamps
Located in Dayton, OH
Two large Mid-Century Modern / atomic age table lamp featuring orbs of spun green lucite on brass
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
1970s Mid-Century Modernist Atomic Chrome Sputnik Chandelier
Located in Kingston, NY
This superb 1970s Mid-Century Modernist Sputnik chandelier features an atomic form design on a
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
1950s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp Pair
Located in Chula Vista, CA
1950s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp Pair
15 h at shortest 23.25 at tallest to socket
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Set of 8 Atomic Libbey Mid - Century Modern Tumblers
Located in Chapel Hill, NC
Set of 8 Libbey Mid-Century Modern Tumblers. Atomic decoration in blue and teal, accented with 22k
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Barware
Materials
Gold, Enamel
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Lamp With Pleated Shade
Located in Charleston, SC
A fabulous colorful Quartzite lamp with a textured body, on a brass base. The lamp and shade are cream colored and the shade is still in the plastic with no flaws as far as I can t...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic, Fabric, Paint
Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Table Lamp, 1950s
By Gerald Thurston
Located in Bedford Hills, NY
Very cool midcentury Sputnik atomic table lamp in brass and metal, rewired, shade not included.
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
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Mid Century Atomic For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century atomic for your home. Frequently made of metal, wood and brass, every mid century atomic was constructed with great care. There are 479 variations of the antique or vintage mid century atomic you’re looking for, while we also have 7 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. Your living room may not be complete without a mid century atomic — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Each mid century atomic bearing Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco or Scandinavian Modern hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one mid century atomic that is appealing in its simplicity, but Temde Leuchten, J.T. Kalmar and Lightolier produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a Mid Century Atomic?
The average selling price for a mid century atomic at 1stDibs is $1,450, while they’re typically $175 on the low end and $31,000 for the highest priced.
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
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
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 legendary 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.
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 Mid Century Atomic
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The 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 sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A 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.
- Are the 1970s mid-century?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023No, 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.
- What is mid-century artwork?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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.
- What is mid century furniture?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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 chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid 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.
- 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, 2021Mid 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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The 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. - Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- Is Mondrian mid century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most 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.
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