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Mid Century Modern Lighter

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Midcentury Modern Lighter Ronson Silver 925 Design 1960s
By Ronson
Located in Palermo, IT
Rare Ronson pocket lighter in 925 silver with an elegant line. Italy of the 60s. Note: We try to
Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Silver

Iconic Dunhill Gold-Plated Cigarette Lighter with Original Red Lather Case
By Alfred Dunhill
Located in New York, NY
beautifully engineered piece rare lacquer condition. Mid-Century Modern Lighter by Dunhill Rollagas Rulerlite
Category

Mid-20th Century Swiss Art Deco Vanity Items

Materials

Gold Plate

Mid-century Modern Georges Briard Stained Mosaic Lighter
By Georges Briard
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Mid-century modern Georges Briard blue and green mosaic stained glass lighter. Colorful and stylish
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Modern Novelty Pro Golf Ball Table Desk Lighter
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This mid-century vintage lighter is a unique collectible or gift, shaped like a golf ball and clubs
Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Plastic

Dunhill Mid-Century Modern Chrome Stylized Sabre Jet Airplane Table Lighter
By Alfred Dunhill
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
1960 and done in the period Mid-Century Modern style. The lighter is made in the likeness of the F-86
Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Mid 20th Century Modern Table lighter by Dieter Rams for Braun
By Braun, Dieter Rams
Located in Brugge, BE
1968-1970 Germany Brushed metal 8.5cm high, 5.5cm diameter Dieter Rams, born in 1932, is a renowned German industrial designer closely associated with Braun, Vitsœ, and the funct...
Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal

Whimsical Thick Lucite Whale Lighter Mid-Century Regency Modern
By Guzzini
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Gorgeous thick lucite sculpted whale lighter. Add some whimsy with a touch of glam to your table
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Hollywood Regency Desk Accessories

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Transparent Faceted Art Glass Chrome Gas Lighter Japan 1970
Located in Miami, FL
Mid-Century Modern transparent art Glass lighter with Chrome hardware from the 1970s, made in Japan
Category

Late 20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Modern Set of Ceramic Lighter and Ashtray by Marcello Fantoni 1950s
By Marcello Fantoni
Located in Troy, MI
Vintage Marcello Fantoni for Raymor Ceramic Lighter and Ashtray Set Italian Pottery Mid Century
Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Ceramic

Mid Century Modern Cobalt Murano Glass & Brass Table Lighter W/ Copper Striker
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Vintage circa 1960 mid century modern cobalt murano glass & brass lighter w/ Copper Striker. Made
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes

Materials

Murano Glass

Mid century ceramic lighter by Aldo Londi for Bitossi, 1960s
By Bitossi, Aldo Londi
Located in View Park, CA
A mid century modern ceramic lighter by Aldo Londi for Bitossi, Italy 1960s. Tones of espresso
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Materials

Metal

"The Lamp Lighter" Texas Mid-Century Modern Everett Spruce (1908-2002) EXHIBITED
By Everett Spruce
Located in San Antonio, TX
of Modern American Paintings, Galerie Giroux Brussels and was chosen as the first artist to be
Category

1940s Modern Figurative Paintings

Materials

Mixed Media, Oil

Ronson Mid-Century Era Silver Plated Figural 'Decanter' Table Lighter
By Ronson
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
the period Mid-Century Modern style. The lighter is composed of a cast and silver plated base with a
Category

Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Lead, Metal, Silver Plate

Mid Century Enameled Brass Lighter & Ashtray Set by Sascha Brastoff
By Sascha Brastoff
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Original matching enameled brass cloisonne Ashtray and Lighter featuring an Autumn, Fall scene of
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Copper

Mid-Century Brass Toned Figural Aladdin's Oil Lamp Styled Table Lighter
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
and date to approximately 1965 and done in the period Mid-Century Modern style. The base of the
Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Spelter

11pc Mid Century Arrowsmith Mahogany Sterling Silver Salad Bowl Tongs Lighter
Located in Dayton, OH
Mid century eleven piece Arrowsmith salad serving set featuring turned mahogany bowls with sterling
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Sterling Silver

Mid-century Raymor Glazed Ceramic Smoking Set Italy, Box, Lighter and Ashtray
By Raymor
Located in Miami, FL
an Italian mid-century modern Raymor smoking set including a covered cigarette box, tall lighter, and
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes

Materials

Ceramic

Mid-century Table top smoking set, ashtray and table lighter, Italy 1950s
Located in Firenze, IT
Mid-century Table top smoking set, ashtray and table lighter Italy 1950s wood & brass 18 x 12 x
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Sapphire Cross
Located in Chicago, IL
This striking mid-century modern wall cross, handcrafted by a European studio pottery artist, is a
Category

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

Materials

Ceramic

 Mid-Century Modern Sapphire Cross
 Mid-Century Modern Sapphire Cross
H 5.63 in W 4.63 in D 0.25 in
Vintage Italian Set of Ashtray and Lighter in Bras, Mid-Century from the 1960s
Located in Rome, IT
An elegant set consisting of a lighter and ashtray or brass tray, vintage from the 1960s
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Brass

Vintage Faceted Lucite Table Lighter
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A Mid-Century Modern lucite table lighter with faceted corners and decorative elements, and new
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Lucite

Vintage Faceted Lucite Table Lighter
Vintage Faceted Lucite Table Lighter
H 5 in W 3.25 in D 3.25 in
Art Deco Silver Table Lighter
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A wonderful Aluminum Art Deco Table lighter by Saroma, made in Japan, 1960. A compliment to the
Category

20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

Art Deco Silver Table Lighter
Art Deco Silver Table Lighter
H 2.75 in W 4.5 in D 2.25 in
1970s Shell Lighter, France
Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR
1970 shell lighter, will feet well with modern ahtrays.
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Metal

1970s Shell Lighter, France
1970s Shell Lighter, France
H 3.94 in Dm 4.73 in
Rustic Mid-Century Modern Tiered Oak Side Table
By George Nakashima
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Handsome, mid-century modern, tiered oak side table features lovely rustic details like carved
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Oak

Lot of 5 Lighters, Rare 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Half Giant Lighters
By Dunhill
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Lot of 5 Rare 1950s Half-Giant Dunhill Aquarium table lighters (made in England) Each of these
Category

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Chrome, Silver Plate

Mid-Century Modern Carrara Marble Abstract Sculpture
Located in New York, NY
This elegantly bold Mid-Century Modern Carrara Marble Abstract Sculpture originates from the United
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Carrara Marble

Italy Modern Design Black Faceted Crystal Table Lighter Contemporary Production
Located in Brescia, IT
This elegant table lighter designed with a shape that evoques the Mid-Century Italian style. A
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Paperweights

Materials

Crystal

Antique Chinese Porcelain Famille Rose Sancai Meiping Mounted Lighter mid 20c
Located in Richmond, CA
into a functional butane table lighter. The intricate brass mounting work dates from mid 20th century
Category

Mid-20th Century Chinese Qing Scholar's Objects

Materials

Porcelain

Murano Glass Table Lighter
Located in Cathedral City, CA
Italian 1970s clear Murano glass lighter.
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern More Desk Accessories

Materials

Brass

Murano Glass Table Lighter
Murano Glass Table Lighter
H 7 in W 3.5 in D 3.5 in
Ronson Large Table Lighter 1980
Located in Byron Bay, NSW
Ronson Large Table Lighter 1980
Category

Vintage 1980s Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Materials

Plexiglass

Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
By Werkstätte Carl Auböck
Located in Berlin, DE
Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Brass

Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
H 3.35 in W 2.37 in D 4.34 in
Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
By Werkstätte Carl Auböck
Located in Berlin, DE
Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Brass

Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
Carl Auböck Lighter, Austria 1960s
H 6.7 in W 13 in D 7.88 in
Vintage Acrylic Italian Lighter 1980
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage acrylic Italian lighter.  
Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Chrome

Vintage Acrylic Italian Lighter 1980
Vintage Acrylic Italian Lighter 1980
H 7 in W 4.5 in D 2.5 in
Mid century danish modern teak desk with 3 drawers
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Mid century danish modern teak desk with 3 drawers And lower brace. This danish desk has (2) upper
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Desks

Materials

Teak, Oak

Mid Century Modern Platform Storage Bed
Located in Vancouver, WA
clean, coherent lines with angles reminiscent of the mid century era, but brought into a contemporary
Category

2010s American Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Hermes Silver Cube Lighter, 1960s France
By Hermès
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Magnificent cube lighter by Hermes, Paris, circa 1960s France. Hermes H displayed on all 4 sides
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Silver

Hermes Silver Cube Lighter, 1960s France
Hermes Silver Cube Lighter, 1960s France
H 2.5 in W 2.32 in D 2.32 in
Swedish Mid-Century Modern Rectangular Cocktail Table in Pine
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
A Swedish designed vintage sofa table from circa 1970 in dark pine and lighter pattern of cubes of
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Pine

Mid-Century Modern Saarinen Styled Side Chairs, a Pair
By Eero Saarinen
Located in Weehawken, NJ
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Saarinen styled side chairs, upholstered in light biege vinyl. The
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Naugahyde, Wood

Mid Century Modern Drop Leaf Dining Table by Heywood Wakefield
By Heywood-Wakefield Co.
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern drop leaf table by Heywood Wakefield features solid wood construction
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Birch, Maple

1970s Lucite Ashtray and Lighter Set
Located in New York, NY
Stunning 1970s Lucite chrome ashtray and lighter desk set. Lighter measurements: Width 3.75
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Materials

Chrome

AMERICAN OF MARTINSVILLE Mid 20th Century Modern Walnut Queen Size Headboard
By American of Martinsville
Located in Charlotte, NC
A Mid 20th Century Modern queen size panel headboard by American of Martinsville. Walnut with a
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut

Vintage Fully Brass Italian Lighter 1970s
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Fully Brass Vintage Lighter made in Italy 1970s
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Brass

Rare 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Half-Giant Lighter
By Dunhill
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A rare 1950s Half-Giant Dunhill aquarium table lighter (made in England) Each of these lighters
Category

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Lucite

Rare 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Half-Giant Lighter
By Dunhill
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A rare 1950s Half-Giant Dunhill aquarium table lighter (made in England) Each of these lighters
Category

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Lucite

Rare 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Half-Giant Lighter
By Dunhill
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A rare 1950s Half-Giant Dunhill aquarium table lighter (made in England) Each of these lighters
Category

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Lucite

Desk in Solid Hardwood, by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
aesthetics typical of mid-century modern furniture. It has a minimalistic yet sophisticated look that
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Vintage Cannon Shaped Iron and Brass Table Lighter
Located in New York, NY
Vintage cannon shaped iron and brass novelty table lighter.  
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Metal, Brass, Iron

Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Decorative Tray in Pastel Turquoise & Gilt Detailing
Located in New York, NY
would be a winning addition to any style of interior from Classic Mid-Century Modern to contemporary. It
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Ceramic

Mid-Century German Modern High Turquoise Sideboard with Drawers, 1970s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
functionality and original appearance. It was covered with turquoise varnish with delicate, lighter stripes. The
Category

Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Round Wooden Brass Dining Table, Italy, 1950s
Located in Vienna, AT
Mid-century Modern round wooden brass dining table, Italy 1950s. This elegant Italian dining
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Brass

Greta Magnusson Mid Century Modern Grasshopper Floor Lamp - circa 1947
By Greta Magnusson Grossman
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
elegance of Mid Century Modern design with this exceptional Grasshopper floor lamp, created by renowned
Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass, Steel

1960s St Dupont Lighter Silver Design Horizontal
By S.T. Dupont
Located in Biella, IT
S.T. Dupont France lighter sophisticated horizontal line1 first edit two tone silverplate and gold
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Silver Plate

Bert England Forward Trends Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart
By Johnson Furniture Company, Bert England
Located in St. Louis, MO
doors. Geometric door panels, Brutalist style. Two available, one in lighter finish needs only touch up
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Modern Blue Cone Pendant Chandeliers 8 Available
Located in Port Jervis, NY
stripes of pale blue grading up to lighter blue at the top. Brushed satin brass metalwork is of current
Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Sculptural Danish Mid Century Modern Magazine Rack c. 1950/1960's
By Sam Maloof, Hans J. Wegner
Located in New York, NY
Sculptural, architectural Danish Mid Century Modern magazine rack, circa 1950/1960's. This piece is
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Magazine Racks and Stands

Materials

Teak

Chrome Midcentury Leather Wrapped Letter Opener Lighter
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Original midcentury leather wrapped letter opener lighter with a blank monogram. The lighter
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Chrome

Wall Unit in Hardwood, by Joaquim Tenreiro, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern
By Joaquim Tenreiro
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
This wall is a fine example of Joaquim Tenreiro's work, which is emblematic of the mid-20th century
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Hardwood

Small Sideboard in Hardwood, by Sergio Rodrigues, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
This meticulously crafted sideboard by Sergio Rodrigues is a paradigm of Brazilian mid-century
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Steel

'Stella' Lounge Chair, by Sérgio Rodrigues, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Design
By Sergio Rodrigues
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
tropical hardwood frame. This chair's embracing shape, a hallmark of mid-century design, boasts a backrest
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Other

1970s Marble Bronze and Brass Lighter France
Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR
1970s Marble Bronze and Brass Lighter France
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Materials

Marble, Brass, Bronze

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Mid Century Modern Lighter For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the mid century modern lighter you’re looking for. Frequently made of metal, plastic and lucite, every mid century modern lighter was constructed with great care. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer mid century modern lighter, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 20th Century. A mid century modern lighter, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Hollywood Regency style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Many designers have produced at least one well-made mid century modern lighter over the years, but those crafted by Dunhill, Tommaso Barbi and Alfred Dunhill are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Mid Century Modern Lighter?

A mid century modern lighter can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $483, while the lowest priced sells for $65 and the highest can go for as much as $16,000.

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 Lighter
  • 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    There are many colors available for painting a mid-century modern home and it is a matter of preference. You can choose from a range of colors that are closely associated with mid-century modernism — popular pairings include orange and brown or chartreuse and gray, for example. Find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture, decorative pieces, serveware and lighting on 1stDibs today.
  • 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.

Read More

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