Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What 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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

Who was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century?

Accepted Answer

British artist John Singer Sargent was one of the most important portrait painters of the 19th century. Other notable portraitists from the period include James Abbott McNeill Whistler, Eugène Delacroix, Théodore Géricault, Gustave Courbet, Édouard Manet, Mary Cassat, Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of portrait paintings.

Question 10

What art style was used by the 19th-century French painters?

Accepted Answer

The French painters of the 19th century worked in two styles. Neoclassicism dominated the first half of the century, and Impressionism was the most common style during the second half. On 1stDibs, you can find a variety of French paintings.

Question 11

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 20

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Mid Century Painters

Vintage 1950s American Modern Sterling Silver

Karl Drerup Enamel Metal and Sterling Silver, Plaque/Brooch/Pin Picture, Signed

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Large Black, Red, Orange, and White Abstract Expressionist Painting , Mid-20th Century

Vintage 1960s Italian Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Green Glass Table by Duiliu Barnabé / Fontana Arte, c.a. 1960

1970s Modern Landscape Paintings

Robert W Hill20th Century Modern British Landscape with fisherman, bridge, trees, , circa 1970

1930s Post-Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Andre Firmin Regagnon'Solitaire', Post-Impressionist Figural, Salon des Artistes Français, Benezit, Circa 1935

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

The Painter - China Ink - Mid-20th century, Mid-20th century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Painter - Original Etching and Drypoint - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Mino MaccariPainter - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Raymond CazanovePainter - Original Watercolor by R. Cazanove - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Mino MaccariPainter Fisherman - Woodcut by Mino Maccari - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Portrait Paintings

French Mid Century huge 1950's French Modernist Signed Oil Painting Portrait Two Acrobats, 1950's

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Figurative Photography

Portrait of Painter Franco Gentilini - Vintage Photo - Mid-20th Century , Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Photography

Photograph of a Painting by the Painter Beppe Guzzi - mid 20th Century, mid 20th Century

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Sculptures

Dan ColenBlowin' in the Wind (Boot), 2011

Mid-20th Century More Art

Nino BertolettiMessage from the painter Nino Bertoletti to Silvio Perina - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern More Art

Antonio BarreraLetter with Business Card by the painter Antonio Barrera - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Abstract Paintings

Thomas Brownell EldredUnique signed Mid Century Modern Abstract painting by renowned American painter , 1941

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Sid CedargreenNear Tubac, Arizona, c.1960

Mid-19th Century Realist Landscape Paintings

Autumn Lake Landscape Mid 19th Century Oil Painting by Listed Scottish Painter, e.g. 1850-1866

17th Century Old Masters Paintings

Portrait Knight Paint Oil on canvas 17th Century Lombard school Old master Italy, 1630-1680

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Painter - Original Pencil Drawing by 20th Century French Artist, Mid 20th Century

1930s American Realist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Louis WolchonokBridge Painter WPA American Modernism Mid 20th-Century Realism Industrial Worker, c. 1930s

Mid-20th Century Modern Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

Mino MaccariThe Sculptor and The Painter - China Ink By Mino Maccari - Mid 20th cCntury, Mid 20th Century

Mid-19th Century Old Masters Figurative Paintings

Historical Italian painter - 19th century figure painting - Allegory , c.1850

Mid-18th Century Rococo Figurative Paintings

Rococò Venetian painter - 18th century figure painting - Portrait, c.1740

Antique 1860s Sofa Tables

Unique 19th-Century French Painter's Palette Table

Mid-17th Century Rococo Landscape Paintings

Rococò Italian painter - 18th century landscape painting - Festival , c.1750

1960s American Impressionist Landscape Paintings

20th century Canadian SchoolMid 20th Century Canadian snow covered landscape, Halliburton Highlands Ontario, Circa 1960

Mid-17th Century Baroque Portrait Paintings

Antique Portrait painter - 17th century figure painting - Portrait nobleman, 1650 c.

Mid-18th Century Rococo Figurative Paintings

Antique Chinese painter - 18th century figure painting - Landscape Pagoda , c.1750

Mid-18th Century Rococo Figurative Paintings

Antique Chinese painter - 18th century figure painting - Landscape Pagoda, c.1750

Mid-18th Century Old Masters Figurative Paintings

Antique Italian painter - 18th century figure painting - Saint crucifix , 1750 c.

Mid-18th Century Old Masters Figurative Paintings

Religious Italian painter - 18th century figure painting - Saint Monica , c.1750

Mid-17th Century Baroque Figurative Paintings

Baroque Italian painter (Guercino Workshop) - 17th century painting - Saint , c.1640

Mid-19th Century Realist Landscape Paintings

Vedutist Venetian painter - 19th century landscape painting - Venice view , c.1830

Mid-19th Century Naturalistic Landscape Paintings

Vedutist Neapolitan painter - 19th century landscape painting - Vesuvius Gulf , c.1850

Mid-19th Century Naturalistic Landscape Paintings

Sidney Richard PercySidney Richard Percy (Naturalistic British painter) - 19th century landscape , c.1860

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Gio ColucciThe Painter and his Work - Charcoal Drawing by Gio Colucci - 20th Century, Mid 1900

Mid-19th Century Old Masters Landscape Paintings

Vedutist Florence painter - 19th century landscape painting - Lungarno View, c.1840

Mid-19th Century Naturalistic Portrait Prints

Robert W Hill
20th Century Modern British Landscape with fisherman, bridge, trees, , circa 1970

Andre Firmin Regagnon
'Solitaire', Post-Impressionist Figural, Salon des Artistes Français, Benezit, Circa 1935

Mino Maccari
Painter - Drawing by Mino Maccari - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Raymond Cazanove
Painter - Original Watercolor by R. Cazanove - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mino Maccari
Painter Fisherman - Woodcut by Mino Maccari - Mid 20th Century, Mid 20th Century

French Mid Century
huge 1950's French Modernist Signed Oil Painting Portrait Two Acrobats, 1950's

Dan Colen
Blowin' in the Wind (Boot), 2011

Nino Bertoletti
Message from the painter Nino Bertoletti to Silvio Perina - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Antonio Barrera
Letter with Business Card by the painter Antonio Barrera - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Thomas Brownell Eldred
Unique signed Mid Century Modern Abstract painting by renowned American painter , 1941

Sid Cedargreen
Near Tubac, Arizona, c.1960

Louis Wolchonok
Bridge Painter WPA American Modernism Mid 20th-Century Realism Industrial Worker, c. 1930s

Mino Maccari
The Sculptor and The Painter - China Ink By Mino Maccari - Mid 20th cCntury, Mid 20th Century

20th century Canadian School
Mid 20th Century Canadian snow covered landscape, Halliburton Highlands Ontario, Circa 1960

Sidney Richard Percy
Sidney Richard Percy (Naturalistic British painter) - 19th century landscape , c.1860

Gio Colucci
The Painter and his Work - Charcoal Drawing by Gio Colucci - 20th Century, Mid 1900

Wenzel Karl-Heinz
Deer in a Mountain Landscape, Karl-Heinz Wenzel, 20th Century, German Painter, Mid 20th Century

Giuseppe Migneco
Giuseppe Migneco(Italian painter) - 20th century figure drawing - Fortune teller, c.1940

Sever Frentiu
Sever Frentiu (Avant-garde painter) - 20th century figure portrait painting , c.1960

Alex Lazard
Portrait of a Painter , 2017

Jean Jacques Boimond
Painter and gardener at work

Giuseppe Bonito
18th Century by Giuseppe Bonito The Painter's Studio or Allegory of Painting, Middle 18th Century