Mid-Century Minimalist Table Lamp
Located in Hamburg, DE
Small Mid Century table lamp. A minimalist design with clear lines. Foot and screen are cuboid and
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid Century Lighting
to
19,022
127,837
87,914
208,258
9,388
2,158
182,989
4,743
3,771
3,177
2,586
972
628
289
284
252
244
228
208
189
167
152
64
49
529
2,306
205,341
11,561
610
147,493
44,587
26
10
140
1,061
3,931
36,245
50,208
34,382
4,458
1,234
156,888
89,619
79,905
21,880
19,300
178,886
81,999
26,955
25,192
23,904
218,288
211,266
213,764
3,822
2,975
2,304
2,295
2,043
Sort By
Mid-Century Minimalist Table Lamp
By Motoko Ishii
Located in Hamburg, DE
Minimalist Mid Century table lamp. Particularly insisting falls the fine execution of the
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Hungarian Chandelier
$2,800Sale Price|43% Off
Mid-Century Modern Hungarian Chandelier
Located in Chicago, IL
This stylish Mid-Century light piece is composed of a single tier of frosted glass cylinders
Category
Mid-20th Century Hungarian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Table Lamp in Chrome and Marble
Located in Brooklyn, NY
An elegant Mid-Century Modern table lamp with a large chrome base accentuated by marble inlays on
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Marble, Chrome
Abstract Yellow and Black Ceramic Table Lamp 20th Century Design 1960 Lighting
Located in Neuilly-en- sancerre, FR
French vintage production Original abstract ceramic table lamp realized in the 20th century
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic
Mid century Orgue lamp
$6,057
Mid century Orgue lamp
By Jacques Charles
Located in Amstelveen, NL
Ernest Charles, Charles Paris initially specialized in grand-style lighting. It relied on the expertise
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Steel
Mid-Century Cork Lamps
$1,200 / set
Mid-Century Cork Lamps
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Pair of mid-century modern table lamps with cork base and rope necks. Great addition to any modern
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Cork
Olbia Brass Casting Wall Sconce, Art Lighting, Sculptural Lighting
Located in İstiklal, TR
provide indirect lighting, casting a warm and welcoming glow that enhances the beauty of the piece. The
Category
2010s Turkish Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass
White and Green 20th Century Ceramic Table Lamp by Dupanier French Lighting 1960
Located in Neuilly-en- sancerre, FR
decoration Original perfect condition Mid-20th century lighting design realized, circa 1960 Signed
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic
Mid-Century Glass Table Lamp
Located in London, England
Mid-Century Charles Schneider handmade crystal glass lamp. Re-wired and tested. Shade not included
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Glass
Mid Century Floor Lamp
$1,200
Mid Century Floor Lamp
By Majestic Lamp Company
Located in New York, NY
Exceptional Mid Century floor lamp having two exaggerated arms, each with a shaded light at the top
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass
Two Mid Century Signed Martz Ceramic Table Lamps
$2,450 / set
Two Mid Century Signed Martz Ceramic Table Lamps
By Gordon & Jane Martz
Located in Bridgeport, CT
A pair of Classic Mid Century pottery Table Lamps Ca. 1960's by iconic husband and wife Potters
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Other
American Mid-Century Twin Light Curved Neck Floor Lamp
Located in Queens, NY
American Mid-Century curved neck floor lamp supporting 2 hand stitched large and small shades in a
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Gold Set of Three Chandeliers and One Wall Sconce by Estiluz, 1970s
By Estiluz Lighting, Estiluz, Leonardo Marelli
Located in Badajoz, Badajoz
This Set has never been used, perfect condition, included original carton box. This Marvelous Mid
Category
Vintage 1970s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
Mid Century Chinoiserie Bronze Lamp James Mont Style
By James Mont
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Stunning mid century Chinese bronze lamp. James Mont style. Heavy. Beautiful deep detail in design.
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Bronze
Italian Mid-Century Reggiani Metal Lantern
Located in Queens, NY
Italian 1950s lantern with metal circular slat design suspended from a fabric stem with a cylindrical metal canopy (attributed to REGGIANI).
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Lanterns
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Gold Set of Two Chandeliers and One Wall Sconce by Estiluz, 1970s
By Estiluz Lighting, Leonardo Marelli, Estiluz
Located in Badajoz, Badajoz
This Set has never been used, perfect condition, included original carton box. This Marvelous Mid
Category
Vintage 1970s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Round Clear Glass Sconces Flush Mounts
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Mid-Century Wall or Ceiling Lamp. Metal base with clear glass. 1960-1970 Weight: 1.10 kg / 2.4 lb
Category
Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Round Clear Glass Sconces Flush Mounts
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Mid-Century Wall or Ceiling Lamp. Metal base with clear glass. 1960-1970 Weight: 1.50 kg / 3.3 lb
Category
Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Metal
Mid Century Turned Wood Lamp
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Beautifully turned wood lamp. Classically shaped for broad appeal with wonderful patina. Masculine formed body offset by brass ring around base. Period shade tops it off. Lamp body ...
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Wood
1962 Mid Century Large Travertine Lamp
By Ello Furniture
Located in Chicago, IL
41” height total. Dimensions: 8"W × 8"D × 29"L Styles: Mid-Century Modern, Minimalism, Modern
Category
20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern More Lighting
Materials
Travertine
Mid Century Chapman Porcelain Lily Flower Lamp
$320Sale Price|28% Off
Mid Century Chapman Porcelain Lily Flower Lamp
By Chapman Manufacturing Company
Located in Cincinnati, OH
Mid Century Chapman Porcelain Lily Flower Lamp Small area of paint missing on base (see pic #8
Category
Mid-20th Century American Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
American Mid-Century Teak and Brass 'Boomerang' Floor Lamp
Located in Queens, NY
American Mid-Century twin light standing floor lamp with a boomerang shaped teak feature separating
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Natural Fiber
Mid Century Murano Periwinkle Fluted Glass Lamp
$592Sale Price|20% Off
Mid Century Murano Periwinkle Fluted Glass Lamp
Located in Cincinnati, OH
Mid Century Murano Periwinkle Fluted Glass Lamp Base has tarnish from age. No damage to glass
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid-20th Century Neoclassical Style Bronze Bouillotte Lamp
Located in Chapel Hill, NC
Mid-20th century bronze swan motif bouillotte lamp. Neoclassical style. Double light. Green paint
Category
Mid-20th Century European Neoclassical Table Lamps
Materials
Bronze
Midcentury Sunburst Mirror in Gilded Iron with Lighting, Italy, 1960s
$1,900Sale Price|20% Off
Midcentury Sunburst Mirror in Gilded Iron with Lighting, Italy, 1960s
Located in Roma, IT
having a lighting system on the rear that can light up the mirror from the back, giving a wonderful
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern More Lighting
Materials
Metal, Iron
Austrian Mid-Century "Citrus" Murano Wall Sconce by Kalmar Franken, 1970s
By Kalmar Lighting, J.T. Kalmar
Located in Badajoz, Badajoz
Beauty and pretty Austrian Mid-Century "Kalmar" Wall Sconce, model "Citrus" 4663/2. This Sconce was
Category
Vintage 1970s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Brass
Pair of Mid-Century French Opaline Table Lamps
$3,500 / set
Pair of Mid-Century French Opaline Table Lamps
Located in Germantown, MD
A Pair of Mid-Century Mid Size French White Opaline Table Lamps. Feature gold Trims. Brass base
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid Century French Lantern, Ceiling Lamp
$591Sale Price|49% Off
Mid Century French Lantern, Ceiling Lamp
Located in Herentals, BE
This round French lantern consists of a teak wooden plateau, a glass chalice with a graphic motif and a black metal cover plate. The frame and suspension are made of brass. The lam...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Lanterns
Materials
Metal, Brass
Amazing Mid Century Ice Glass Flush Mount or Sconce by Leclaire & Schäfer 1960s
By J.T. Kalmar, Kalmar Lighting, Leclaire & Schäfer
Located in Munich, DE
Exceptional and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern textured glass flush mount / sconce. Designed
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Metal, Brass
Mid-Century Orange Table Lamp
Located in London, England
Mid-Century orange glass table lamp. U.K circa 1950. Rewired and tested.
Category
Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Glass, Pine
Mid-Century Glass Table Lamp
Located in London, England
Swedish mid-century clear shaped glass table lamp with brass cap. Re-wired and tested. Shade not
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Single Mid-century Vintage Mid-century Italian Alabaster Lamp with Brass Collars
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Single Hollywood Regency lamp of alabaster, having an ovoid body, with hexagonal neck and plinth, rounded brass collars adorn the joints of the neck and base, and have great patina. ...
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Hollywood Regency Table Lamps
Materials
Alabaster, Brass
Italian Mid-Century Chrome and Glass Wall Sconces by Gaetano Sciolari, 1960s
By Gaetano Sciolari, Sciolari Lighting
Located in Morazzone, Varese
Italian Mid-Century Chrome and Glass Wall Sconces by Gaetano Sciolari, 1960s A pair of wall
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Aluminum, Chrome
Pine Mid-Century Square Italian Mid-Century Table Lamp
Located in London, GB
A pine geometric square table lamp. Italy, c1980s. Formed from layers of wood reverted. Since re-wired and PAT tested. PLEASE NOTE PRICES LISTED ARE EXCLUSIVE OF VAT IF SOLD ...
Category
Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Pine
Kalmar Mid-Century Modern Pair of Large Crystal Glass Wall Lights / Sconces
By J.T. Kalmar, Kalmar Lighting
Located in Landau an der Isar, Bayern
Mid-Century Modern pair of vintage Austrian made large pair of faceted crystal glass wall sconces
Category
Vintage 1980s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Gold Plate, Brass
Vintage Table Lamp, Italy, Mid-20th Century
Located in Roma, IT
Vintage table lamp is an original design lamp item realized in the mid-20th Century. This lamp
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Table Lamps
Materials
Art Glass
Italian Baroque Style Wrought Iron and Blown Glass Lantern, Mid-19th Century
Located in Atlanta, GA
Hanging from original canopy and chain, the scroll-work frame with a collar that holds a blown glass globe, the collar opening to release the globe to allow access to the socket whic...
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century Italian Baroque Lanterns
Materials
Wrought Iron
Mid-Century Modern Bubble Glass Pendants, Amber Stripes, Europe, 1970s
By Orrefors, Glashütte Limburg, Murano 5, Kalmar Lighting, Helena Tynell
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Pair of clear textured bubble glass pendants with amber colored vertical relief stripes. Golden cylinder plast mount, original black canopy and fittings for 40W E14 bulbs. Beautiful...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Glass, Plastic, Art Glass
Star-Shaped Mid-Century Modern Chandelier Pendant Light Glass Chrome Nickel 1970
By J.T. Kalmar, Kalmar Lighting
Located in Hausmannstätten, AT
A star-shaped ceiling light by Kalmar manufactured in Austria in midcentury, circa 1970 (late 1960s or early 1970s). The lamp is made of frosted ice glass pieces mounted on a white...
Category
Vintage 1970s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Brass, Chrome, Nickel
Mid-Century Ceramic Lamp
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This ceramic table lamp features raised geometric patterns with blue and red accents. Set on a wood base, this is a fun lamp for home or office. Please confirm location NY or NJ
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic
American Mid-Century Tear Drop Shaped Ceramic Table Lamp
Located in Queens, NY
American Mid-Century tear drop shaped ceramic table lamp with tappered neck and pear shaped
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic
Mid-Century Murano Lamp
$2,650
Mid-Century Murano Lamp
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Mid-century Murano lamp.
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Murano Glass, Acrylic
Pair Of Mid Century Stiffel Torchiere Table Lamps
By Stiffel
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Pair of mid century torchiere table lamps by Stiffel in brass with white enameling. The lamps with
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
American Mid-Century Polished Maple Rocket-Shaped Table Lamp
Located in Queens, NY
American Mid-Century polished maple table lamp in a rocket form with diamond-shaped fins around the
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Scandinavian mid-20th century pendant lamp
Located in Delft, NL
Scandinavian mid-20th century pendant lamp A Scandinavian lamp with a triangular centerpiece of
Category
Mid-20th Century Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Glass, Beech
Sculptural Carved Oak Table Lamp, Scandinavia Mid-20th Century
Located in Utrecht, NL
Mid-20th century Scandinavian design emerged as a golden era where form seamlessly intertwined with
Category
Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Fabric, Wood
Vintage Table Lamp Farmhouse Green Shade Library Lighting
Located in Bastogne, BE
Made in mid 20th Century kerosene style table lamp in old bronze and porcelain with classic glass
Category
Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Bronze
MId-Century Murano Lamp
$2,450
MId-Century Murano Lamp
Located in Los Angeles, CA
MId-century Venetian lamp with many controlled bubbles throughout. With applied aqua glass swirls
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Murano Glass, Acrylic
Pencil Reed Rattan 'Lumina' Table Lamp, Handcrafted Lighting
Located in Oxford, GB
form. Handcrafted by skilled artisans in the Philippines, Lumina brings mid-century modern elegance to
Category
2010s Philippine Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Rattan
Mid-Century Modern Pair of Kalmar 1960s Glass Ice Crystal Wall Lights or Sconces
By Kalmar Lighting, J.T. Kalmar
Located in Landau an der Isar, Bayern
Pair of large Mid-Century Modern Austrian made ice crystal glass wall sconces, lights or lamps by
Category
Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal, Nickel
Tall Italian Mid-Century Gold Leaf Marble Table Lamp, Mid 20th Century
$460Sale Price|20% Off
Tall Italian Mid-Century Gold Leaf Marble Table Lamp, Mid 20th Century
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
Italian Mid-Century Marble Gold Leaf Florentine Lamp, Italy circa 1950's Impressive Florentine
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Marble
Mesmerizing Unique Mid-Century Modern Tall Table Lamp
$1,000Sale Price|20% Off
Mesmerizing Unique Mid-Century Modern Tall Table Lamp
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Unique and brilliant Mid-Century Modern tall table lamp. In very good even original vintage
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Rougier Artichoke Lamp
By Roger Rougier
Located in San Francisco, CA
Fabulous mid 20th century Rougier artichoke lamp. The artichoke lamp is one of the rarest Rougier
Category
Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Acrylic
Modern mid century chandelier with brass and curved textured glass by J.T Kalmar
By Kalmar Lighting, J.T. Kalmar
Located in Wien, AT
Modern mid century chandelier with brass and curved textured glass by J.T Kalmar Brass polished and
Category
Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Swedish Modern Tripod Floor Lamp, Sweden Mid-20th Century
Located in Utrecht, NL
. Overall, the distinctive design of this floor lamp represents the mid-century era in its purest form, both
Category
Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Waterfall Floor Lamp by Laurel
By Laurel Lamp Company
Located in Chicago, IL
Vintage Mid-Century Modern waterfall floor lamp attributed to Laurel Lighting Company Style of
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass
- 1
- ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Lighting", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.
Mid Century Lighting For Sale on 1stDibs
Find many varieties of an authentic piece of mid century lighting available at 1stDibs. An item from our selection of mid century lighting — often made from metal, glass and brass — can elevate any home. Find 91564 options for an antique or vintage choice in our collection of mid century lighting now, or shop our selection of 3963 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect object in our assortment of mid century lighting — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each option in this array of mid century lighting bearing Mid-Century Modern, Industrial or Art Deco hallmarks is very popular. J.T. Kalmar, Stilnovo and Kalmar Lighting each produced at least one beautiful piece of mid century lighting that is worth considering.
How Much is a Mid Century Lighting?
A piece of mid century lighting can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $2,212, while the lowest priced sells for $1 and the highest can go for as much as $982,587.
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 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.
Finding the Right Lighting for You
The right table lamp, outwardly sculptural chandelier or understated wall pendant can work wonders for your home. While we’re indebted to thinkers like Thomas Edison for critically important advancements in lighting and electricity, we’re still finding new ways to customize illumination to fit our personal spaces all these years later. A wide range of antique and vintage lighting can be found on 1stDibs.
Today, lighting designers like the self-taught Bec Brittain have used the flexible structure of LEDs to craft glamorous solutions by working with what is typically considered a harsh lighting source. By integrating glass and mirrors, reflection can be used to soften the glow from LEDs and warmly welcome light into any space.
Although contemporary innovators continue to impress, some of the classics can’t be beat.
Just as gazing at the stars allows you to glimpse the universe’s past, vintage chandeliers like those designed by Gino Sarfatti and J. & L. Lobmeyr, for example, put on a similarly stunning show, each with a rich story to tell.
As dazzling as it is, the Arco lamp, on the other hand, prioritizes functionality — it’s wholly mobile, no drilling required. Designed in 1962 by architect-product designers Achille & Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, the piece takes the traditional form of a streetlamp and creates an elegant, arching floor fixture for at-home use.
There is no shortage of modernist lighting similarly prized by collectors and casual enthusiasts alike — there are Art Deco table lamps created in a universally appreciated style, the Tripod floor lamp by T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Greta Magnusson Grossman's sleek and minimalist Grasshopper lamps and, of course, the wealth of mid-century experimental lighting that emerged from Italian artisans at Arredoluce, FLOS and many more are hallmarks in illumination innovation.
With decades of design evolution behind it, home lighting is no longer just practical. Crystalline shaping by designers like Gabriel Scott turns every lighting apparatus into a luxury accessory. A new installation doesn’t merely showcase a space; carefully chosen ceiling lights, table lamps and floor lamps can create a mood, spotlight a favorite piece or highlight your unique personality.
The sparkle that your space has been missing is waiting for you amid the growing collection of antique, vintage and contemporary lighting for sale on 1stDibs.
Questions About Mid Century Lighting
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 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.
Read More
This Paavo Tynell Chandelier Is a Radiant Bouquet
The alluring pendant light exemplifies the designer’s winsome mid-career work.
Why Is Italy Such a Hotbed of Cool Design?
Patrizio Chiarparini of Brooklyn’s Duplex gallery sheds light on the lasting legacy of Italy’s postwar furniture boom.
See How New York City Designers Experiment on Their Own Homes
There are many lessons to be learned from the lofts, apartments and townhouses of architects and decorators in Manhattan and beyond.
Jeff Andrews Captures Old Hollywood Glamour in His Cinematic Spaces
Having created extravagant homes for reality TV’s biggest stars, the designer is stepping into the spotlight with his first book.
New Orleans’ Lee Ledbetter Makes Design Magic by Mixing Past and Present
The Louisiana-born and -bred architect talks to 1stdibs about the art of making timeless places that matter.
Desert Modern Designer Arthur Elrod Finally Gets His Day in the Sun
The Palm Springs interior decorator developed a mid-century style that defined the vacation homes of celebrities and other notables, including Bob Hope and Lucille Ball.
From the Hamptons to Palm Springs, FormArch’s Homes Embody Both Comfort and Cool
The houses from this New York studio cloak modernist tendencies within what are often more traditional trappings.
8 Mid-Century Lighting Makers
In the market for a fantastic fixture from the 1940s, ’50s or ’60s? Here are some names to know.
More Ways To Browse
Mid Century Auction
Torchiere Sculpture
Kurt Versen Gooseneck
1950s Fiberglass Desk Lamp
Marbro Crystal Lamps
Marbro Crystal
Barbini Medusa
Mcm Crystal Lamp
Modeline Lamp Shade
Underwriters Laboratories Portable Lamp
Luxcraft Lamp
Bronze Winged Lion
Brown Jordan Rattan
Brutalist Cross
Bubble Glass Cabinet
Bunk Beds
Burl Veneer Box
Burmese Bronze Monks Statue