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

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 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 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 10

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 11

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 12

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.

Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.

Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.

Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.

Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.

Question 14

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 15

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.

Question 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

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.

Mid Century Diptych

Mid-20th Century French Paintings

Beautiful Diptych Paintings

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Paintings

very large signed mid-century abstract oil on panels, diptych, Mariano Benedetti

2010s Post-Modern Landscape Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraTerracota Cave, Mid-Century Modern Abstract Shapes, Painting Diptych on Paper, 2025

1960s Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Large-Scale Tropical Secret Garden, Mid-Century Botanical Diptych with Waterfall, 1960

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Fritz BultmanWake (diptych), 1965

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Silk Screen Diptych

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Silk Screen Diptych

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Silk Screen Diptych

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Silk Screen Diptych

Mid-20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Domenick Capobianco Domenick Capobianco Abstract Diptych Oil on Canvas, 1966

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

T’ang Haywen diptych ink on paper 1975

Mid-20th Century Belle Époque Decorative Art

Pair of Minton-Spidell Vintage Hand Painted Scenic Diptych Oil Painting Panels

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Paintings

T’ang Haywen signed diptych ink on beige paper 1970

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Paintings and Screens

T’ang Haywen signed diptych ink on beige paper 1972

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Screen Print Diptych from Formulation Articulation

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Screen Print Diptych from Formulation, Articulation

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Screen Print Diptych from Formulation Articulation

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Screen Print Diptych from Formulation Articulation

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Original Diptych Oil on Board "Upward Dream" Paintings by Wade Koniakowsky

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Roland PichardAbstract Diptych: Still Life with Bottle and Chairs - Contemporary Oil Paintings

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Josef Albers Homage to the Square Silk Screen Diptych

Mid-20th Century Landscape Prints

Jack Duganne"Valleys" Diptych Color Lithographs of Mountain Range in Earth Tones Brown Tan

Mid-20th Century Slovenian Folk Art Paintings

Diptych paintings in the style of Naive art, Oto Dobovišek, Yugoslavia 1970s

Mid-20th Century English Minimalist Paintings

Abstract Minimalist Diptych Black & White Panel Painting Erik Atkinson Icon 1971

Vintage 1980s Danish Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Roald Ditmer, Abstract Composition, Oil on Canvas Diptych, Framed, Set of 2

2010s Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Maura SegalMajorca aqua Mid Century modern style diptych, 2017

2010s Canadian Mid-Century Modern Paintings

'Untitled Diptych', Abstract Painting by Roan Barrion

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Lacquer on Panel Diptych by California Abstract Expressionist Richard Mann

Mid-19th Century Edo Figurative Prints

Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)Utagawa Toyokuni, Diptych, Japanese Woodblock Print, Ukiyo-e, Tragic Love Story, 1855

Mid-20th Century Realist Animal Paintings

George BrowneGeorge Browne Oil Painting on Canvas Board Diptych Animal Wildlife Deer Signed

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Vicky WattyUntitled 12

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-Century Modern Framed Abstract Encaustic Mixed-Media Diptych Signed L. Biro

2010s Abstract Abstract Photography

Kind of CyanMid-Century Movement Diptych in Blue Tones, Handmade Unique Monotype, Abstract, 2022

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraMagenta, Cyan, Tan Geometry, Sign Language, Abstract Mid-Century Style Diptych, 2021

2010s American Modern Abstract Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraPastel Palette Curves, Mid-Century Modern Diptych, Purple, Yellow & Blue Shapes, 2024

2010s Modern Abstract Prints

Kind of CyanModernism in The Clouds, Abstract Mid-Century Shapes, Blue & White Large Diptych, 2023

2010s Modern Abstract Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraFloating Shapes in Mauve, Mid-Century Modern Abstract Diptych, Coral and Beige, 2023

2010s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraNight Lights, Color Theory Diptych Mid-Century Modern Shapes, Black, Red, Yellow, 2023

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Steven Sles Diptych Paintings

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Terracota Cave, Mid-Century Modern Abstract Shapes, Painting Diptych on Paper, 2025

Fritz Bultman
Wake (diptych), 1965

Domenick Capobianco
Domenick Capobianco Abstract Diptych Oil on Canvas, 1966

Roland Pichard
Abstract Diptych: Still Life with Bottle and Chairs - Contemporary Oil Paintings

Jack Duganne
"Valleys" Diptych Color Lithographs of Mountain Range in Earth Tones Brown Tan

Maura Segal
Majorca aqua Mid Century modern style diptych, 2017

Utagawa Kunisada (Toyokuni III)
Utagawa Toyokuni, Diptych, Japanese Woodblock Print, Ukiyo-e, Tragic Love Story, 1855

George Browne
George Browne Oil Painting on Canvas Board Diptych Animal Wildlife Deer Signed

Vicky Watty
Untitled 12

Kind of Cyan
Mid-Century Movement Diptych in Blue Tones, Handmade Unique Monotype, Abstract, 2022

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Magenta, Cyan, Tan Geometry, Sign Language, Abstract Mid-Century Style Diptych, 2021

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Pastel Palette Curves, Mid-Century Modern Diptych, Purple, Yellow & Blue Shapes, 2024

Kind of Cyan
Modernism in The Clouds, Abstract Mid-Century Shapes, Blue & White Large Diptych, 2023

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Floating Shapes in Mauve, Mid-Century Modern Abstract Diptych, Coral and Beige, 2023

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Night Lights, Color Theory Diptych Mid-Century Modern Shapes, Black, Red, Yellow, 2023

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Modernist Primary Colors Contours, Mid-Century Diptych, Classy Transparencies, 2021

Daniel Albert Harris
Mid Century Surrealistic diptych -- Neighbors & Friends, 1968

Dorothy Finley 1
Dorothy Finley Mid 20th Century Abstract Diptych Paintings c.1970, Circa 1970

Kind of Cyan
Futurist Pool Diptych, Mid-Century Shapes, Blue Tones Transparencies Cyanotype, 2022

Kind of Cyan
Cloud Puppets, Abstract Blue Shapes, Mid-Century Style Diptych, Handmade Print, 2022

Kind of Cyan
Positive Versus Negative, Mid-Century Shapes Blue Tones Cyanotype Print Diptych, 2022

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Fifties Grand Canyon, Mid-Century Shapes Diptych, Abstract Landscape, Red, Blue, 2024

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Spinning Naked Body, Nude Tones, Gray Diptych Mid-Century Shapes Transparencies, 2023

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Lights and Shadows, Mid-Century Modern Abstract Shapes Diptych, Black, Red Gray, 2023

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Purple Desert Pools, Large Diptych Mid-Century Modern Shapes Mauve, Pink, Beige, 2022

Ryan Rivadeneyra
The Modernist Garden, Mid-Century Shapes Diptych in Pink, Green and Cream, 2022, 2021

Gary Bukovnik
Flowers, large diptych monotype, signed, c.1990