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1970s Mid Century Pretzel Armchairs by Plycraft, Pair
By Plycraft
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Mid-century pretzel armchairs designed by Norman Cherner and manufactured by Plycraft in the United
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Plywood

Classic Mid Century Pretzel Arm Chair by Norman Cherner for Plycraft
By Norman Cherner, Plycraft
Located in Buffalo, NY
Classic mid century Pretzel arm chair by Norman Cherner for Plycraft: Great original condition
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Naugahyde, Plywood

Pair of Norman Cherner for Plycraft White Bentwood 'Pretzel' Dining Chairs
By Plycraft, Norman Cherner
Located in New York, NY
PAIR of American Mid-Century 'Pretzel' design dining armchairs with white painted bentwood frames
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Wood, Walnut, Paint

Mid-Century Modern "Pretzel" Armchair by Norman Cherner for Plycraft
By Plycraft, Norman Cherner
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Mid-Century Modern "Pretzel" armchair by Norman Cherner for Plycraft
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Wood, Birch, Bentwood

Mid-Century Paul Frankl Rattan Chaise Pretzel Arms Lounge Chair with Ottoman
By Paul Frankl
Located in Bay City, MI
This five-strand rattan lounge chair features stylized pretzel arms with a matching fitted ottoman
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Restored Mid Century 5-Strand Reverse Pretzel Rattan Lounge Chair
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Four-strand 3/4 reverse pretzel rattan sofa and five-strand lounge chair set both feature a
Category

Vintage 1950s North American Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Mid-Century Modern French 3/4 Round Pretzel Arms Bamboo Lounge Chair, 1970s
Located in Prato, IT
Mid-Century Modern French 3/4 round pretzel arms bamboo and rattan lounge chair. Some laces of the
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan

Restored Mid Century Six-Strand Square Pretzel Three-Seat Sectional Sofa
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Paul Frankl style four-strand square pretzel style, three-seat sectional sofa. This sofa features
Category

Vintage 1950s Sectional Sofas

Materials

Rattan

Restored Mid Century 3 Strand Full Pretzel Settee W/ Open Base
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Art Deco six-strand square pretzel rattan settee with custom-made cushions available C.O.M
Category

Vintage 1950s American Settees

Materials

Rattan

Vintage rattan pretzel sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in AIGNAN, FR
pretzel-shaped armrests and its manufacturing quality. Sold without cushion, possibility of providing a
Category

Mid-20th Century European Canapes

Materials

Rattan

Vintage rattan pretzel sofa
Vintage rattan pretzel sofa
H 28.75 in W 45.67 in D 35.44 in
Mid Century 3-Strand 3/4 Pretzel Sectional Rattan Corner Sofa with Drink Table
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Restored 3 stranded 3/4 pretzel arm, rattan 2-seater sectional sofa with line base. Comes with
Category

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Rattan

Vintage Coastal Pretzel Rattan Waterfall Coffee Table
Located in west palm beach, FL
A fabulous vintage Coastal coffee table. Beautiful rich brown pretzel rattan in a beautiful
Category

Mid-20th Century Bohemian Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan, Glass

Set of Two '2' Mid-Century Modern Pretzel Chairs in Oak and Original Tweed, USA
Located in Deland, FL
This set of playfully-shaped pretzel chairs is unlike any other we've ever seen. Constructed of
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Oak

Paul Frankl-Style Rattan Bamboo Pretzel Lounge Chair
By Paul Frankl
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage, mid-century modern bamboo "pretzel" lounge chair in the style of Paul Frankl. The chair
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo

Paul Frankl-Style Rattan Bamboo Pretzel Lounge Chair
Paul Frankl-Style Rattan Bamboo Pretzel Lounge Chair
No Reserve
H 25.5 in W 29 in D 36 in
2-Strand Pretzel Shape Arm Rattan Lounge Chair
Located in Sheffield, MA
canvas seat and back cushions. The side has pretzel shape x design. This lounge chair offers style and
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Patio and Garden Furniture

Materials

Rattan

19th Century Biedermeier Cabinet Ashwood "Pretzel" Design, Austria, circa 1845
Located in Lichtenberg, AT
"stamp" legs and a two-door front showing a lovely "pretzel" design, confers this antique Biedermeier
Category

Antique Mid-19th Century Austrian Biedermeier Cabinets

Materials

Spruce, Ash

Dorothy Thorpe “Pretzel” Lucite Table Lamp
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Dorothy Thorpe “Pretzel” Lucite Table Lamp
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Linen, Lucite

Rattan Pretzel Lounge Chairs and Loveseat
By Paul Frankl
Located in Rochester, NY
A pair of Art Deco three strand rattan and cane pretzel lounge chairs and matching loveseat
Category

Mid-20th Century Philippine Art Deco Patio and Garden Furniture

Materials

Upholstery, Cane, Rattan, Natural Fiber

Paul Frankl Style Bamboo Pretzel Frame Armchair
By Paul Frankl
Located in Trenton, NJ
collectors and design enthusiasts alike. Its square pretzel rattan frame is a nod to mid-century modern style
Category

Early 20th Century Unknown Bohemian Armchairs

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan

French Provincial Hollywood Regency Cane Back Pretzel Twist Dining Chair, Set 8
Located in Philadelphia, PA
backs, solid wood frames, cabriole legs. Circa mid 20th century. Measurements: (2) Armchairs: 41.5" H
Category

Mid-20th Century Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Pretzel Artydec candle holders, Spain, 1970's
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in La Tour-de-Peilz, CH
Recalling the work of Dorothy Thorpe, this pair of transparent candlesticks will be placed at your table to accompany your guests around a candlelit meal with a seventies taste.
Category

Vintage 1970s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Candelabras

Materials

Lucite

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand Club Chairs with Ottomans, Set of 4
By Paul Frankl
Located in Miami, FL
Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand Club Chairs with Ottomans, Set of 4 Offered for sale are 2 pairs of
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Rattan, Foam

Vintage Coastal Pretzel Rattan Glass Cube Coffee Table
Located in west palm beach, FL
A fabulous vintage Coastal coffee table. A chic and simple design with thick pretzel rattan frame
Category

Mid-20th Century Philippine Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan, Glass

Early and Rare Pretzel sIDE Chair by George Nelson
By George Nelson
Located in Buffalo, NY
Early and Rare Pretzel sIDE Chair by George Nelson, c 1952,,, gREAT EXAMPLE, Iconic Design
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Plywood

Set of 6 Vintage French Hollywood Regency Style Cane Pretzel Back Dining Chairs
Located in Philadelphia, PA
, mid-20th century. Measurements: 46" H x 21" W x 23.5" D x 19" seat height.
Category

Mid-20th Century North American Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Cane, Wood

Restored Rattan Six Strand Square Pretzel Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This restored Mid-Century Rattan sofa in three pieces featuring six-strand square pretzel arms
Category

Vintage 1950s American Sectional Sofas

Materials

Rattan

Vintage 5-Piece Beverly Hills Rattan Bamboo Pretzel Sunroom Living Room Sofa Set
By Beverly Hills Rattan Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
original label, circa mid-20th century. Measurements: Sofa 28.5" H x 73.5" W x 33.5" D. Chair 28" H x 29" W
Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Living Room Sets

Materials

Bamboo, Laminate

Restored Six-Strand Square Pretzel Rattan Chaise Lounge Chair
Located in Van Nuys, CA
pretzel arms and a Classic stacked base.
Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Midcentury Dorothy Thorpe Frosted Lucite Wreathed Pretzel Candelabra 1950s
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Midcentury Sculptural Dorothy Thorpe frosted Lucite wreathed pretzel candela bra 1950s. Gorgeous
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Candelabras

Materials

Lucite

Vintage Tom Sturgis Pretzels Large Tin Metal Red Advertising Can
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Tom Sturgis Pretzels Large Tin Metal Red Advertising Can. Circa Early to Mid 20th Century
Category

Early 20th Century Country Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Vintage Bentwood & Leather "Pretzel" Chair by Norman Cherner
By Norman Cherner
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage Mid-Century arm chair in "Pretzel" design by Norman Cherner, consisting of a lacquered
Category

Vintage 1950s American Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Bentwood

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand 4-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Pasadena, TX
Paul Frankl Pretzel 4-seat rattan bamboo sofa. Rare 4 seat version this classic design. Pretzel
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Bamboo

Richard Rohac Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder, Vienna, 1950s
Located in Wien, AT
Richard Rohac figurine pretzel holder, ring holder, Vienna, 1950s Original condition.
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Restored Rattan 3-Strand Full Pretzel 3 Piece Sofa
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Indulge in comfort and style with this restored rattan 3-strand full pretzel 3-piece sofa
Category

Vintage 1940s Philippine Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Rattan

Walter Bosse Brass Monkey Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder
By Walter Bosse, Herta Baller
Located in Wien, AT
Walter Bosse brass monkey figurine pretzel holder, ring holder Austrian brass monkey figurine
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Walter Bosse Brass Cat Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder
By Walter Bosse, Herta Baller
Located in Wien, AT
Walter Bosse brass cat figurine pretzel holder, ring holder Original condition.
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Walter Bosse Brass Cat Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder
By Walter Bosse, Herta Baller
Located in Wien, AT
Austrian brass cat figurine, usually made to be used as a pretzel holder, a decorative piece, very
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Restored Full Round Pretzel Lounge Chair with Arched Base
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This round full pretzel three-seat sofa sectional with three-strand round pretzel arms and arched
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Cat Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder by Walter Bosse
By Walter Bosse, Herta Baller
Located in Vienna, AT
Brass figurine blackened pretzel holder, ring holder. Designed in the 1950s by Walter Bosse for
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Walter Bosse Brass Cat Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder
By Walter Bosse, Herta Baller
Located in Wien, AT
Austrian brass cat figurine, usually made to be used as a pretzel holder, a decorative piece, very
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Restored Five-Strand Round Full Pretzel Rattan Lounge Chair
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Rare five-strand round full pretzel arm rattan lounge chair with fancy wicker wrappings. 1950
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Snack Holder, Pretzel Salt Stick Holder Vintage, German, 1950s
Located in Nuernberg, DE
stand is for pretzels. The handle is made of bamboo. The metal holder is in gold. The set is in very
Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Barware

Materials

Brass

Pair Square Pretzel Rattan Lounge Chairs Style of Paul Frankl
By Paul Frankl
Located in New York, NY
Pair of square pretzel rattan lounge chairs in the style of Paul Frankl. The chairs have a stacked
Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Art Deco Five-Strand Square Pretzel 3-Seater Sectional Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Art Deco era five-strand square pretzel style, three-seat sectional sofa. This sofa features the
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Mid Century Bamboo Sofa
Located in Pasadena, TX
A Mid-Century Modern "Pretzel" sofa reminiscent of the designs of Paul Frankl. A bent bamboo frame
Category

Vintage 1940s Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo

Mid Century Bamboo Sofa
Mid Century Bamboo Sofa
H 31 in W 72.5 in D 35 in
Art Deco Five-Strand Square Pretzel 3-Seater Sectional Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Art Deco era five-strand square pretzel style, three-seat sectional sofa. This sofa features the
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Wicker, Rattan

Paul Frankl Pretzel Six Strand 3-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa
By Paul Frankl
Located in Miami, FL
Paul Frankl Pretzel Six strand 3-Seat Rattan Bamboo Sofa Offered for sale is a Paul Frankl six
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Bamboo, Foam

Pretzel Armchair in the Style of Paul Frankl, France 1950s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Lambertville, NJ
Rattan lounge chair pretzel style in the manner of Paul Frankl, France 1950s
Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Rattan

Rattan Wicker Corner Pretzel Sofa Paul Frankl Style, Italy, 1940s
By Paul Frankl
Located in Rome, IT
Pretzel corner rattan sofa designed in the manner of Paul Frankl. This unique sofa features a bent
Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Rattan, Cane, Bamboo, Wicker

Restored Six-Strand Square Square Pretzel Sofa & Lounge Chair Set
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Mid Century rattan living-room set including a matching 3-seat sectional sofa and lounge chair
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Rattan

Mid-Century Modern Rocker
Located in Sag Harbor, NY
Pretzel Style midcentury rocker, The condition is amazing. lines are so attractive and unique, sure
Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chairs

Materials

Rattan

Mid-Century Modern Rocker
Mid-Century Modern Rocker
H 28 in W 31 in D 42 in
Restored Rattan Three-Strand Full Pretzel Livingroom Set
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Sun Rattan specializes in restoring and servicing the pinnacle of mid-century and custom-made bespoke
Category

Vintage 1950s Living Room Sets

Materials

Rattan

Restored Square Pretzel 3 Seat Rattan Corner Sofa W/ Table
Located in Van Nuys, CA
Rare Square Pretzel rattan 3-seater sectional sofa with Paul Frankl-inspired design featuring 6
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas

Materials

Rattan

Set of 8 MCM Pretzel Clear Lucite Napkin Rings by Dorothy Thorpe
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Chicago, IL
Set of 8 mid-century modern Lucite pretzel-shaped napkin rings designed by Dorothy Thorpe. Single
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces

Materials

Lucite

Gold and Lucite Twisted Pretzel Candlestick Holder/Candelabra by Dorothy Thorpe
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Landau an der Isar, Bayern
, it is often referred to as the 'pretzel' candelabra and it is easy to see why. We love these as
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Candelabras

Materials

Gold Plate, Brass

1970's Dorothy Thorpe Lucite & Chrome Pretzel Candle Holders Pair
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Lovely pair of Lucite candle holders designed by Dorothy Thorpe, circa 1970's. Exceptional condition with no flaws to note. Both sparkle like jewelry.
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Candlesticks

Materials

Chrome

Restored Rattan Six Strand Square Pretzel Four Seat Sofa
Located in Van Nuys, CA
This restored mid-century rattan six-strand square pretzel four-seat sofa with sectional pieces
Category

Vintage 1940s American Sectional Sofas

Materials

Fabric, Rattan

Single Dorothy Thorpe "Pretzel" Twisted Lucite Candlesticks with Chrome Holders
By Dorothy Thorpe
Located in St. Louis, MO
Classic Dorothy Thorpe twisted Lucite candlestick with nickel plated candle holders. Set does show very few internal age cracks, common with lucite of this age. Excludes candles.
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Candlesticks

Materials

Chrome

Set of Norman Cherner Pretzel Dining Chairs, Made by Plycraft, USA, 1960s
By Plycraft, Norman Cherner
Located in London, GB
A set of four original Norman Cherner pretzel dining chairs, made by Plycraft, USA, in the 1960s
Category

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

Materials

Wood

Brass Cat Figurine Pretzel Holder, Ring Holder Attributed to Richard Rohac
Located in Wien, AT
Brass cat figurine pretzel holder, ring holder attributed to Richard Rohac Original condition.  
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Brass

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Mid Century Pretzel For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century pretzel for your home. Frequently made of natural fiber, rattan and wood, every mid century pretzel was constructed with great care. Find 405 options for an antique or vintage mid century pretzel now, or shop our selection of 2 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Your living room may not be complete without a mid century pretzel — find older editions for sale from the 19th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A mid century pretzel made by mid-century modern designers — as well as those associated with Hollywood Regency — is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one mid century pretzel that is appealing in its simplicity, but Norman Cherner, Dorothy Thorpe and Plycraft produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Mid Century Pretzel?

Prices for a mid century pretzel can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $100 and can go as high as $32,775, while the average can fetch as much as $2,595.

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 Pretzel
  • 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 ExpertOctober 26, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    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.
  • 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 ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 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 13, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 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 ExpertJune 15, 2023
    A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Read More

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