Skip to main content

Mid Century Modern Dinnerware

2
290
8
4
to
37
251
44
294
287
288
266
12
5
3
2
1
3
287
12
3
215
50
1
2
5
65
51
24
8
4
165
70
54
38
33
131
127
122
36
33
25
18
16
13
13
Sort By
1980's Vintage Post Modern Stainless Steel Devo Maya Bowl Pewtertone by Mann
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Unique stainless steel serving bowl that will look great with your mid-century modern dinnerware or
Category

Vintage 1980s American Decorative Bowls

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Pan Am Airlines Melamine Plates Dinnerware Service, 1960s
By Pan American Airways
Located in Lambertville, NJ
Mid-Century Modern pan Am American Airlines black/charcoal and white 74 piece melamine dinnerware
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Plastic

Mis Century Russel Wright American Modern Dinnerware Coral Pink Carafe Jug 1950s
By Steubenville, Russel Wright
Located in Miami, FL
Mid Century Russel Wright (1904-1976) Coral American Modern carafe / jug / pitcher designed in 1937
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Pitchers

Materials

Ceramic, Earthenware, Pottery

Mancioli Drum Pattern Dinnerware/Service for Eight
By Mancioli Pottery
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Magnificent set of Italian Mid-Century drum pattern dinnerware by Mancioli. Very good overall
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Pottery

1960s 15 Piece Dinnerware in by Ingrid, Chicago
By Ingrid Atterberg
Located in San Gabriel, CA
Set of 15 vintage plastic dinnerware consisting of 7 dinner plates, 7 salad plates, and 5 bowls
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Plastic

Villeroy And Boch Twist Alea Vitrum Pattern Fused Glass Dinnerware
By Villeroy & Boch
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Villeroy & Boch fused glass dinnerware in "Twist Alea Vitrum" pattern in textured green glass with
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Glass

Mid-20th Century Modern Danish Porcelain Sculpture of Boy by Bing & Grøndahl
By Bing & Grøndahl
Located in North Miami, FL
Mid-20th century scandinavian modern glazed porcelain sculpture of a boy sitting o a rock by danish
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Porcelain, Paint, Ceramic

Franciscan Starburst Dinnerware Service for 6 plus Serving Pieces!
By Franciscan China 1
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Set of Franciscan Dinnerware in the Starburst Pattern. Set includes! 6 11" Dinner Plates 6 8" Salad
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Ceramic

Richard Ginori Brown & Gold Trimmed Extensive Dinnerware Service Of 99 Pieces
By Richard Ginori
Located in Tarry Town, NY
Richard Ginori extensive dinnerware service Contessa brown / gilt pattern dinnerware service
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Gold

Set of Six Charlotte Perriand Porcelain Dinnerware Plates by Cassina
By Charlotte Perriand, Cassina
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Hand-decorated porcelain dinnerware service, based on ancient influences filtered through the
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Porcelain

Materials

Porcelain

Mid-Century Modern Gordon & Jane Martz Ceramic Table Lamp
By Gordon & Jane Martz
Located in San Antonio, TX
their main focus, but furniture, dinnerware and other small items were produced in their Indiana
Category

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

Materials

Ceramic

Richard Ginori Burnt Orange Contessa Extensive Dinnerware Service Of 141 Pieces
By Richard Ginori
Located in Tarry Town, NY
Richard Ginori extensive dinnerware service Contessa rust red pattern dinnerware service . Pattern
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Gold

Set of Six Charlotte Perriand Porcelain Dinnerware Plates by Cassina
By Cassina, Charlotte Perriand
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Hand-decorated porcelain dinnerware service, based on ancient influences filtered through the
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Porcelain

Materials

Porcelain

Danish Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Table Lamp by Desiree Stentoj
By Desiree
Located in Berlin, DE
Danish Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Table Lamp by Desiree Stentoj This lamp was produced by Danish
Category

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

Materials

Ceramic, Stoneware

Rosenthal Form 2000 "Linear" Dinnerware set by Raymond Loewy 54 Pieces
By Rosenthal, Raymond Lowey
Located in Highland, IN
The Form 2000 or "Classic Modern" line of dinnerware designed by Raymond Lowey with Richard Latham
Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Porcelain

Fortessa Forta Luxe Super White Ceramic Plate Bowl Centerpiece Dinnerware Italy
Located in Miami, FL
Decorative glazed dinnerware, china, centerpiece, plate, fruit bowl in super white by Fortessa
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

1960s Dorothy C. Thorpe California Persimmon Orange & Gold Dinnerware Set Four
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Chula Vista, CA
1960s Dorothy C. Thorpe California Persimmon pattern Orange & Gold Dinnerware Set Service for four
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Ceramic

Pair of Danish Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Table Lamps by Desiree Stentoj
By Desiree
Located in Berlin, DE
Pair of Danish Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Table Lamps by Desiree Stentoj These lamps were produced
Category

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

Materials

Stoneware

Eva Zeisel Scarce Ironstone Dinnerware Set for 10 by Schmid NKT, Japan
By Eva Zeisel
Located in Chicago, IL
serving platters 1 large serving bowl A whimsical, Mid-Century set designed by Eva Zeisel for Schmid
Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Ceramic

Pair of Italian Mid-Century Modern Wood Benches / Stools Attributed to Gio Ponti
By Gio Ponti
Located in New York, NY
Rare pair of Italian Mid-Century Modern benches or stools attributed to Gio Ponti with hand cut
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Stools

Materials

Hardwood, Upholstery

Green, Yellow and White Dinnerware by Vignelli for Heller, Set of 32
By Massimo Vignelli, Heller, Massimo and Lella Vignelli
Located in Brooklyn, NY
dinnerware for Heller (likely designed with his equally talented wife Lella) has been in near constant
Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Plastic

1960s Mid-Century Modern Green Diamond Panel Cabinet in Lacquered Walnut
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Immerse yourself in the sophistication of the 1960s with our Mid-Century Modern Lacquer-Painted
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Massimo Vignelli for Heller Mid Century Modern Plates and Mugs for Six
By Massimo and Lella Vignelli, Heller
Located in Chesterfield, NJ
Compasso d’Oro award for good design. It was introduced to the U.S. in 1971. This dinnerware is also in
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Plastic

Massimo Vignelli for Heller Dinnerware 20 Large Plates and 20 Small Plates Light
By Massimo Vignelli
Located in Topeka, KS
. All in beautiful soft yellow and ready to grace your dinner table with mid-century modern excellence
Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Plastic

Mid-Century Modern Solid Wood Oak Storage Credenza Cabinet with, Brass & Glass
By Esvee, Esvee
Located in Hyderabad, TG
it a fitting vessel for storage of precious dinnerware in your dining room or to store and display
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Modern Aluminum Saucer Reflector Lamp Russel Wright 50s Art Deco
By Russel Wright
Located in Peoria, AZ
transition of Art Deco and Bauhaus designs to Mid Century Modern. The New York World's Fair brought new
Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

Mid-Century China Cabinet by Broyhill Premiere
By Broyhill
Located in Trenton, NJ
Introducing this Mid-Century Modern Two-Piece Sideboard With China Cabinet topper from broyhill – a
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Glass, Wood

Mid-Century China Cabinet by Broyhill Premiere
Mid-Century China Cabinet by Broyhill Premiere
H 69.75 in W 54.75 in D 18.25 in
Set of Eight Mid-Century Modern Smoked Grey Cocktail Glasses, Denmark, C. 1960s
By Orrefors, Holmegaard
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
or dinnerware collection.
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Barware

Materials

Blown Glass

Mid Century Erphila Edinburgh Blue Plaid Pottery Dinner Plates Made in Italy Set
Located in Topeka, KS
condition report. We attempt to portray any imperfections. Circa, Mid-20th Century. Portare La Pasta
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Dinner Plates

Materials

Pottery, Porcelain

Large Mid-Century Cipollino Ondulato Marble Dining Table, Italy
By Stone International, Roche Bobois
Located in DE MEERN, NL
Introducing the Italian Post-Modern Dining Table: A Timeless Marvel of Design and Elegance If
Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Marble

Set of 3 Mid Century Pyrex Glass Bowls, Fire King Brand- Red Dot decor
Located in San Francisco, CA
16th century, as a competitor to porcelain. It was produced in blue, pink, yellow, black, - white
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls

Materials

Milk Glass

Restored Vintage Mid-Century Wood Cabinet with Burl Door Details
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Embrace the timeless beauty of our elegant vintage mid-century cabinet, a piece that exudes
Category

Vintage 1960s French Art Deco Cabinets

Materials

Walnut, Mahogany, Wood, Lacquer

Vintage MCM 1 Piece Walnut & Radio Weave Cane Front Lighted China Cabinet
Located in Topeka, KS
Fabulous vintage Mid-Century Modern 1 piece walnut & radio weave cane front lighted China cabinet
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Cane, Glass, Walnut

MCM Russel Wright Tea Service in Robin's Egg Blue
By Russel Wright
Located in Austin, TX
.' Now with ‘Mid-Mod’ all the rage again, Russel Wright’s American Modern Collection of dinnerware and
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Tea Sets

Materials

Pottery

French Ceramic Tureen by Marianne Westman for Longchamp, France
By Longchamp, Marianne Westman
Located in BARCELONA, ES
of dinnerware but also owning a symbol of culinary artistry and aesthetic refinement that will
Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Wooden Flower Shaped Bowls - set of four
Located in Munster, IN
beauty to your dinnerware collection.
Category

Mid-20th Century Philippine Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls

Materials

Wood

Wooden Flower Shaped Bowls - set of four
Wooden Flower Shaped Bowls - set of four
H 1.88 in W 5.75 in D 5.63 in
Wooden Flower Shaped Salad Bowl with Servers
Located in Munster, IN
natural beauty to your dinnerware collection.
Category

Mid-20th Century Philippine Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls

Materials

Wood

A Pair of Katavalos, Littell, and Kelly - T-Chairs
By Douglas Kelly, Ross Littell and William Katavolos
Located in New York, NY
, United States, c. 1950. A set of three-legged iconic mid-century modern leather chairs - both sculptural
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal

Vintage Sascha Brastoff Ashtrays Blue Metal Enameled Set of 3 Circa 1960's
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in North Hollywood, CA
. Set of Three Vintage Metal Enameled Blue Ashtrays by Sascha Brastoff Mid Century Modern vintage enamel
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Metal

Wooden Leaf-Shaped Dish
Located in Munster, IN
add natural beauty to your dinnerware collection.
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Wood

Wooden Leaf-Shaped Dish
Wooden Leaf-Shaped Dish
H 1.5 in W 6 in D 12 in
Faceted Avocado Green Kings Crown Indiana Thumbprint Stem Glasses, Set of 19
By Indiana Glass Company
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
dinnerware. Dimensions: Tea glasses: (8) 3.75" diameter 6.75" tall Goblets: (8) 3.75" diameter 5
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Glass

Materials

Glass

Raymond Loewy for Rosenthal Porcelain China Service for 12
By Raymond Loewy, Rosenthal
Located in Palm Springs, CA
German porcelain china dinnerware service for 12 by renowned American designer Raymond Loewy. The
Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Porcelain

Materials

Porcelain

Sascha Brastoff Midcentury Signed Green Enamel Ashtray, Candy Dish, 1950s
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in North Hollywood, CA
catch all or decorative plate on a desk or on your vanity. An original Signed 1960s Mid-Century Modern
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Contemporary Rattan Walnut Green Marble Credenza by SinCa Design
Located in Tolland, CT
This vernacular Mid-Century Modern inspired console is superbly detailed as well as practical
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Marble

Paul McCobb Set of Contempri 40 piece plus
By Jackson Internationale, Paul McCobb
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Paul McCobb Contempri for Jackson Internationale Set of Dinnerware. 40 plus pieces. 8 10" Dinner
Category

Vintage 1960s Japanese Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Ceramic

Ceramic Leaf Plates Set Edera Model from the Sixties
Located in bari, IT
Dinnerware set for 6 plus a large serving plate and a deep tray, SKI production from the 1960s
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic

Katavolos, Kelley and Littell for Laverne Set of 3 T-Chairs in Black Leather
By William Katavolos, Douglas Kelly, Ross Littell and William Katavolos, Laverne International
Located in Paris, FR
in designing textiles, dinnerware and furniture at Laverne which was established in 1938. One of
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Katavolos, Kelley and Littell for Laverne, T-Chair in Black Leather
By William Katavolos, Douglas Kelly, Ross Littell and William Katavolos, Laverne International
Located in Paris, FR
designing textiles, dinnerware and furniture at Laverne which was established in 1938. One of their most
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal, Chrome

1960s Oiva Toikka for Nuutajarvi Notsjo, Iittala Flora Glass Serving Bowl
By Iittala
Located in Atlanta, GA
many mediums, Toikka has also created iittala’s Kastehelmi glass dinnerware, Marimekko Bird Mugs, and a
Category

Mid-20th Century Finnish Mid-Century Modern Serving Bowls

Materials

Glass

Vintage Sascha Brastoff Midcentury Ceramic Pipe Shaped Ashtray
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Sascha Brastoff Art Studio Ceramic midcentury Art Pottery, Circa 1950s. Vintage Mid-Century Modern
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Ceramic

Midcentury Georges Briard Gilt Glass Appetizers Dishes Set of 2
By Georges Briard
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Vintage 1960's Mid Century Modern Georges Briard gold leaf glass appetizers plates set of 2. The
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-...

Materials

Art Glass

Die Zauberflötte the Magic Flute Bjørn Wiinblad for Rosenthal Espresso Set
By Bjorn Wiinblad, Rosenthal
Located in Miami, FL
white glaze.  The Magic Flute pattern is one of the most sought after and valuable dinnerware made by
Category

Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Porcelain

Materials

Porcelain

Jane and Gordon Martz Footed Bowl for Marshall Studios
By Gordon & Jane Martz, Marshall Studios
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
with mid century modern, contemporary, organic modern, minimalist, etc
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Ceramic

T-Chairs by Katavolos, Kelley & Littell for Laverne International, US, 1950s
By Douglas Kelly, Ross Littell and William Katavolos, Laverne International
Located in Antwerp, BE
leather seats seemingly floats atop the three-legged frame, adding a touch of modern flair to any dining
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Metal

Jane and Gordon Martz Vase for Marshall Studios
By Marshall Studios, Gordon & Jane Martz
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
6.75" tall. Would work well with mid century modern, contemporary, organic modern, minimalist, etc
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Modernist Bronze Bookends by Ben Seibel, US, 1950s
By Ben Seibel
Located in Berlin, DE
Mid-Century Modern design, and are highly sought after by collectors.
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Materials

Bronze

Pair of 2 Lounge Chair by Katavolos, Littell, & Kelley for Laverne International
By Douglas Kelly, Ross Littell and William Katavolos
Located in Los Angeles, CA
appearance of the seating. The T-chair can be found in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Carl-Harry Stalhane Tall Stoneware Vase for Rostrand, Sweden
By Carl-Harry Stålhane
Located in Dallas, TX
studio art pieces, he designed functional dinnerware. While still working at Rörstrand he also taught
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Stoneware

Set of Glazed Ceramic Pineapple Dessert Serving or Appetizer Snack Bowls
Located in Barcelona, ES
ceramics decorative objects, serving pieces and dinnerware items are avaliable at our 1stdibs marketplace
Category

20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Platters and Serveware

Materials

Majolica, Ceramic

Sascha Brastoff "Surf Ballet" Footed Bowl Aqua Blue and Silver
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in North Hollywood, CA
ceramic pottery footed bowl with silver And aqua blue swirled glaze colors. Mid-Century Modern Sascha
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Ceramic

  • 1
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Modern Dinnerware", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Mid Century Modern Dinnerware For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic piece of mid century modern dinnerware available at 1stDibs. An item from our selection of mid century modern dinnerware — often made from ceramic, porcelain and plastic — can elevate any home. There are 85 variations of the antique or vintage choice in our collection of mid century modern dinnerware you’re looking for, while we also have 2 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. Whether you’re looking for newer or older items, there are earlier versions available from the 20th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. An object in our assortment of mid century modern dinnerware made by Mid-Century Modern designers — as well as those associated with Scandinavian Modern — is very popular. A well-made option in this array of mid century modern dinnerware has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Rosenthal, Heller and Massimo and Lella Vignelli are consistently popular.

How Much is a Mid Century Modern Dinnerware?

A piece of mid century modern dinnerware can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $1,044, while the lowest priced sells for $85 and the highest can go for as much as $11,500.

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

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively. 

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by 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 Modern Dinnerware
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 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, 2021
    Mid 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
    Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019

    Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
    Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
    The defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture design include simplicity, an emphasis on organic forms, clean lines and a mix of both natural and man-made materials. The mid-century modern style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is used to describe the work of furniture designers who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Both neutral tones and bold Pop art colors can typically be found in mid-century modern interiors, which usually include light-filled spaces. An integration of floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant access to the outdoors renders prominent a connection with nature, which owes in part to the ideas of celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an inspiration for mid-century furniture designers. Popular mid-century modern designers include Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and others. Find vintage mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Read More

The 21 Most Popular Mid-Century Modern Chairs

You know the designs, now get the stories about how they came to be.

Iconic Furniture Makes This 1958 Midwestern Home a True Mid-Century Gem

Designer Susan Yeley turned to 1stDibs to outfit an Indiana home with standout pieces that complement its modernist style.

The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home

Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.

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.

Welcome Back to Designer Russel Wright’s Mid-Century Hudson Valley Home

The industrial designer was known for his sleek, modern dinnerware, but his 1961 house and the landscape around it may be his most astonishing creation.

Cara Greenberg Wrote the Book on Mid-Century Modern Furniture. Here Are Her Auction Finds

The author and design expert was among the first to define the style and coined its alliterative name. She shares her favorite pieces on 1stDibs Auctions — including some steals.

Jochum Rodgers Has Long Brought the Best of 20th-Century Design to Berlin and Beyond

Opened by Hans-Peter Jochum some 40 years ago, the pioneering gallery specializes in mid-century gems but also spotlights contemporary pieces by European artists and makers.

A Guide to Herman Miller’s Most Iconic Furniture

The prolific manufacturer has partnered with many of the world’s top designers since opening its doors in 1923. Here are some of the company’s greatest hits, which helped transform the American home and office.