Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 10

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Question 11

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Question 12

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

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

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

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

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

Question 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To 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.

Question 16

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 18

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 19

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Question 20

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Off White

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Large German Midcentury off White Ceramic Floor Vase

20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Jens Risom Danish Mid-Century Off-White Vinyl and Teak Dining Side Chair

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Midcentury Off-White Lacquered Landstrom 12 Drawer Dresser with Copper Pulls

Mid-20th Century Unknown Art Deco Urns

Mid-Century Off-White Mosaic Natural Bone with Brass Inlay Urn or Vase

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

Original Midcentury white Paul McCobb Origami Fiberglass Chair spider base

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

4 Original Midcentury white Paul McCobb Origami Fiberglass Chairs spider base

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

Luciano Frigerio off White Lacquered Brass Commode Chest 1970s

21st Century and Contemporary Shoes

OFF-WHITE C/O VIRGIL ABLOH Optic Chlorine Mid-Top Sneaker Shoes 37

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

Edward ColverBad Religion, Falling Off Chair

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

Jim MarcheseComing off the Plane, Bruce Springsteen

Mid-20th Century Black and White Photography

Colin JonesThe Wall of the Tobacco and Alcohol Dock, off Wapping High Street, London , 1962

Mid-20th Century Photorealist Black and White Photography

'Vintage Manhattan Skyline' with River', by Unknown, Black & White Photograph

1980s Modern Black and White Photography

Koo StarkVintage Silver Gelatin Portrait Photograph Horst Black & White Photo Koo Stark, c.1986

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Stefanie SchneiderAm I Dreaming? - Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, 2005

Mid-20th Century American Modern Black and White Photography

Fred McDarrahVintage Print Silver Gelatin Signed Photograph Jack Kerouac Street Sign Photo

Mid-20th Century American Modern Black and White Photography

Fred McDarrahVintage Print Silver Gelatin Signed Photograph Poet Allen Ginsberg Howl Photo

Mid-20th Century Modern Black and White Photography

Liza Minnelli iconic picture, unknown date, 20th century

Mid-20th Century Modern Black and White Photography

Liza Minnelli iconic picture, unknown date, 20th century

Mid-20th Century Modern Black and White Photography

Mark ShawCoco Chanel Lunches with Jessica Daves at the Ritz, 1957, 2018

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

John R. HamiltonBrigitte Bardot on set of "Viva Maria, " 1964

Mid-20th Century Black and White Photography

Alfredo Valente Artef Yiddish Theater Photograph

20th Century Modern Black and White Photography

Ruth OrkinBoy jumping into Hudson River, NYC by Ruth Orkin, 1948, Silver Gelatin Print, 1948

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowFerrari, 2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowFerrari, 2023

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

Steve Miller"Pineapple", 2008, 2008

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

Steve Miller"Orchid Architecture", 2008, 2008

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

Steve Miller"Glass", 2008, 2008

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowPebble Beach, 2021

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowSummer of '75 (B&W), 2022

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowThe Birds, 2020

1950s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Jimmy Stewart and Family at Baseball Game, 1954

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowSummer of '75 (B&W), 2022

20th Century Black and White Photography

Fred McDarrahHerbert & Mercedes Matter, 1978

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Black and White Photography

David YarrowRock Star, 2016

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Mid-Century Tapiovaara Inspired Off-White Spindle Rocking Chair w/ Gold Cushions

1980s Black and White Photography

Fred McDarrahBrooke Shields Vintage Silver Gelatin Photograph, 1981

1970s American Modern Black and White Photography

Fred McDarrahVintage Signed Silver Gelatin Photograph Jasper Johns Exhibit Photo Whitney Mus, 1978

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Stefanie SchneiderThe Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Stefanie SchneiderThe Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

Edward Colver
Bad Religion, Falling Off Chair

Jim Marchese
Coming off the Plane, Bruce Springsteen

Colin Jones
The Wall of the Tobacco and Alcohol Dock, off Wapping High Street, London , 1962

Koo Stark
Vintage Silver Gelatin Portrait Photograph Horst Black & White Photo Koo Stark, c.1986

Stefanie Schneider
Am I Dreaming? - Contemporary, 21st Century, Polaroid, Figurative, 2005

Fred McDarrah
Vintage Print Silver Gelatin Signed Photograph Jack Kerouac Street Sign Photo

Fred McDarrah
Vintage Print Silver Gelatin Signed Photograph Poet Allen Ginsberg Howl Photo

Mark Shaw
Coco Chanel Lunches with Jessica Daves at the Ritz, 1957, 2018

John R. Hamilton
Brigitte Bardot on set of "Viva Maria, " 1964

Alfredo Valente
Artef Yiddish Theater Photograph

Ruth Orkin
Boy jumping into Hudson River, NYC by Ruth Orkin, 1948, Silver Gelatin Print, 1948

David Yarrow
Ferrari, 2023

David Yarrow
Ferrari, 2023

Steve Miller
"Pineapple", 2008, 2008

Steve Miller
"Orchid Architecture", 2008, 2008

Steve Miller
"Glass", 2008, 2008

David Yarrow
Pebble Beach, 2021

David Yarrow
Summer of '75 (B&W), 2022

David Yarrow
The Birds, 2020

David Yarrow
Summer of '75 (B&W), 2022

Fred McDarrah
Herbert & Mercedes Matter, 1978

David Yarrow
Rock Star, 2016

Fred McDarrah
Brooke Shields Vintage Silver Gelatin Photograph, 1981

Fred McDarrah
Vintage Signed Silver Gelatin Photograph Jasper Johns Exhibit Photo Whitney Mus, 1978

Stefanie Schneider
The Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
The Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
The Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
The Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
The Games we played (Till Death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, Women, 2005

Stefanie Schneider
I need to save myself (Till death do us Part) - Contemporary, Polaroid, 2005

Ludwig R. Sander
1950s Abstract Charcoal Drawing, Mid Century Modern Design, Black Off White, Circa 1955