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

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.

What is a mid-century sofa?

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.

What is mid-century artwork?

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.

What is mid century decor?

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.

What is a mid-century chair?

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.

What is mid century furniture?

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.

What is mid-century jewelry?

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.

What does mid century mean?

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.

What does mid century modern mean?

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.

What is mid century modern furniture?

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.

Is Eames mid-century modern?

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.

What years are mid century modern?

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.

What years are considered mid-century?

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.

Are the 1970s mid-century?

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.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

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.

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

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.

How do you identify mid century lamps?

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.

Why is mid century modern popular?

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.

What makes a dresser mid-century?

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.

Is rattan mid-century modern?

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.

Mid Century Puzzle

Puzzle Desk

Puzzle Furniture

Cube Nesting Tables

Miguel Berrocal Puzzle Sculptures

Magic Table

Mini Sculptures

Puzzle Cocktail Table

Enzo Mari Puzzle

Pair of Rare Geometric Wood Puzzle Sculptures - France - 1970s

$1,261 / set

Pair of Rare Geometric Wood Puzzle Sculptures - France - 1970s

By Sori Yanagi

Located in SOTTEVILLE-LÈS-ROUEN, FR

Playful yet architectural, these mid-century puzzles epitomize the harmony of craftsmanship, abstraction, and mathematical elegance.

Category

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Mobiles and Kinetic Sculptures

Materials

Wood

$2,450

Mid Century Italian Travertine Table Lamp, Pieced Puzzle Design, 26.5"

Located in New York, NY

Mid Century Italian single unfilled and honed travertine lamp.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Table Lamps

Materials

Travertine

Mid-Century Miguel Berrocal Mini "Portrait De Michelle" Puzzle Sculpture

$2,475

Mid-Century Miguel Berrocal Mini "Portrait De Michelle" Puzzle Sculpture

By Miguel Berrocal

Located in New York, NY

This exquisite Mid-Century Modernist mini puzzle sculpture, titled "Portrait De Michelle" by renowned Spanish artist Miguel Berrocal, is a testament to innovative design and intricat...

Category

Vintage 1960s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Mobiles and Kinetic Sculptures

Materials

Nickel

Richard Rothbard Mid Century Modern Burl Wood Live Edge Puzzle Jewelry Box

$450

$930

$2,250

Magic Puzzle Cube Danish Teak Nesting Tables Mid-century Modern

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in Pemberton, NJ

A set of six interlocking teak nesting tables with chromed steel legs expertly engineered to nest into a discreet cube end table with a small teak finger button on the top table. By ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Tables

Materials

Chrome, Steel

Splendid Barbini 'Puzzle' Murano Vase

$789

$4,950

Miguel Ortiz Berrocal Mini Maria Puzzle Sculpture in its Original Box

By Miguel Ortiz Berrocal

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Simply a wonderful, incredibly rare find retaining so much of the original packaging! Date: Mid-20th Century Overall Condition: It is in overall good, as-pictured, used estate co...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Bronze, Nickel

Miguel Berrocal La Mini Cariatide Nickel Plated Puzzle Sculpture w/ Box and Book

$2,000 / item

Miguel Berrocal La Mini Cariatide Nickel Plated Puzzle Sculpture w/ Box and Book

By Miguel Berrocal

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Vintage Miguel Berrocal La Mini Cariatide Nickel Plated Puzzle Sculpture in Box with Book. Circa Mid 20th Century.

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Metal

$1,450

Vintage Gone with the Wind 5000 Piece Framed Puzzle

Located in Birmingham, AL

A rare and impressive vintage 5,000-piece Gone with the Wind puzzle, featuring a colorful collage of memorable scenes and imagery from the classic film. According to the previous ow...

Category

Mid-20th Century American American Classical Decorative Art

Materials

Composite

Brutalist "Puzzle" Ashtray by David Marshall, Spain, 1980's

$629

$972

Ado Ko Verzuu 255 puzzle box the Netherlands 1955

By ADO, Ko Verzuu

Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant

A beautifully preserved ADO ‘Kistje Gekleurde Tegels’, model 255, designed by Ko Verzuu and manufactured by ADO in The Netherlands in 1955. This construction and puzzle set consists ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Toys and Dolls

Materials

Wood, Paint

$430

Swatch Twin Phone 'Puzzle' Memphis Style, Vintage 1989, Excellent

Located in Milano, IT

1980s (1989) Gorgeous Swatch twin phone "Puzzle" in excellent condition with the original box. It works perfectly. Memphis style. It was an icon for its amazing design. A true piece ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Materials

Plastic

Vintage Bjorn Wiinblad Indian Puzzle for Irma Denmark, 1970s

$228

Vintage Bjorn Wiinblad Indian Puzzle for Irma Denmark, 1970s

By Bjørn Wiinblad

Located in Esbjerg, DK

A rare 500 pcs puzzle in 3 mm thick cardboard paper. Motif: American Indian. Designed during the 1970s and made for Irma in Denmark in 1979. Measurements in box: 33x23x3 cm.

Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Games

Materials

Paper

Pair of 1950's Italian Interlocking Puzzle Coffee Tables

$6,800 / set

$525

Abstract Art Deco Wooden Sculpture - Paperweight & Puzzle Game - France 1940s

Located in ROUEN, Normandie

Abstract Art Deco Wooden Sculpture - Paperweight & Puzzle Game - France 1940s Originally a wooden puzzle game, this beautiful piece can also be displayed as a paperweight on a d...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Wood, Fruitwood, Nutwood

Bernard Girette puzzle aluminum abstract sculpture, titel Le Pentac .

$1,500

Bernard Girette puzzle aluminum abstract sculpture, titel Le Pentac .

By Bernard Girette

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Bernard Girette designer of this aluminum sculpture of 5 components that can be arrange in many different options creating a different sculpture any , time. Title " Le Pentac"

Category

Mid-20th Century French Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Aluminum

Large Wall Panel Cast Metal Vivid Details Puzzle Secret Door

$120,000

$350

Vintage Sculptural Maple Burl Wood Jewelry Puzzle Box by Fred and Marilyn Buss

Located in San Jose, CA

Mid century California modern jewelry trinket wood puzzle box by Fred and Marilyn Buss circa 1970s.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Burl

Recent Sales

Puzzle Table

Unavailable

H 14.97 in W 43.31 in D 35.44 in

Puzzle Table

Located in lyon, FR

Detachable puzzle coffee table. 6 purple and white pieces. Lacquered wood. 1970s. Very good condition.

Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Wood

Unavailable

H 17 in W 16.5 in D 16.5 in

Magic Puzzle Cube Nesting Tables '6' by Poul Norreklit for GP Farum

By Poul Nørreklit

Located in New Westminster, British Columbia

This amazingly magic puzzle cube in gorgeous rosewood is actually a set of 6 individual nesting tables with chrome U shaped legs. Designed by Poul Norreklit for GP Farum in the 1960s...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking Tables

Materials

Chrome

ADO and Ko Verzuu No. 4 "Puzzle Box" in Lacquered Wood and Metal, circa 1950s

Unavailable

Sold

Sold

H 30.32 in W 13.78 in D 3.15 in

Rare Kanak "kagu" Wooden Bird Beak Puzzle, New Caledonia, 19th Century

Located in NICE, FR

Rare Kanak war club of the "Kagu" type (Bird's beak) in hardwood, from New Caledonia, Melanesia, 19th century. This is an exceptional Kanak art collector's item due to its imposing ...

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century New Caledonian Tribal Art

Materials

Wood

Gabriella Crespi 'Puzzle' Table, Italy, 1970s

Sold

H 29.53 in W 66.34 in D 46.86 in

Gabriella Crespi 'Puzzle' Table, Italy, 1970s

By Gabriella Crespi

Located in Greding, DE

Multifunctional 'Puzzle' table by Gabriella Crespi (1922-2017) in octagonal shape on a central base, veneered in Thuja wood. The maximum dimensions of the table are 168.5 x 119 cm. I...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tables

Materials

Wood

Vintage Carved Trinket Puzzle Jewelry Box

Sold

H 7.25 in W 20 in D 7 in

Vintage Carved Trinket Puzzle Jewelry Box

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Vintage carved trinket puzzle jewelry box.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Wood, Maple

Pierre Cardin Brass Puzzle Base Coffee Table

Sold

H 14.5 in W 20 in D 20 in

Pierre Cardin Brass Puzzle Base Coffee Table

By Pierre Cardin

Located in Redding, CT

Mid Century Modern sculptural puzzle design by Pierre Cardin.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Puzzle by Line Vautrin – Box in gilded bronze

Sold

H 1.19 in W 7.05 in D 5.06 in

Puzzle by Line Vautrin – Box in gilded bronze

By Line Vautrin

Located in Uccle, BE

Puzzle by Line Vautrin – Box in gilded bronze Large and wide box in gilded bronze whose lid is carved with a puzzle by Line Vautrin. The chiselled puzzle pieces with different decora...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Materials

Bronze

Enzo Mari 16 Animals Children's Puzzle

Sold

H 9.5 in W 13.5 in D 1 in

Enzo Mari 16 Animals Children's Puzzle

By Danese Milano, Enzo Mari

Located in New Windsor, NY

A children's toy that was ahead of its time. Not a device or a phone to stare at for hours. Unlimited choices and hours of fun. Made of expandable resin and complete with box, cir...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Games

Materials

Resin

H 2.5 in W 8.5 in D 3.25 in

Vintage French Walnut 'Mushroom' Jewelry Puzzle Box by Fred Buss

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Dual-mushroom jewelry puzzle box by Fred Buss composed of solid French walnut components: two tops slide off (completely or partially) to reveal a dual-shallow, circular compartment ...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Walnut

Whieldon-Type Lead-Glazed Tortoiseshell Large Puzzle Jug, circa 1765-1785

Sold

H 8 in W 6.5 in D 5 in

Whieldon-Type Lead-Glazed Tortoiseshell Large Puzzle Jug, circa 1765-1785

By Thomas Whieldon Pottery

Located in Downingtown, PA

Whieldon-type lead-glazed tortoiseshell large puzzle jug, circa 1765-1785. The fun an rare jug with loop handle and a band of pierced holes to the neck with three hollow spout t...

Materials

Brass

Danish Mid-Century Children's Puzzle in Teak

Sold

H 1.25 in W 10.25 in D 5.5 in

Danish Mid-Century Children's Puzzle in Teak

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Very cute small puzzle for the youngest family members. The pieces handmade in solid teak fitted in a nice teak box. Highly decorative and collectible.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Toys and Dolls

Materials

Teak

Mid Century Austin Alcoa Aluminum Sculptural Puzzle Triangles

Sold

H 1 in W 3.25 in D 14 in

Mid Century Austin Alcoa Aluminum Sculptural Puzzle Triangles

By Austin Enterprises

Located in San Diego, CA

Mid-Century, Hollywood Regency, Art Deco, Eclectic, Coastal, Modern, Boho, Organic Modern, Minimalist, Scandinavian

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Toys and Dolls

Materials

Aluminum

Sold

H 4 in W 4 in D 4 in

Mid-Century Modern Brutalist Bronze Puzzle Sculpture Marked Viljans Nyaar

Located in Bedford Hills, NY

Very cool bronze Brutalist puzzle sculpture marked Viljans Nyaar. Comes with original inner box packaging with instructions. Solid bronze, approximately 3lbs in weight.

Category

Vintage 1960s Unknown Brutalist Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Brass

Rattan Puzzle Coffee Table

Sold

H 15.75 in W 23.63 in D 23.63 in

Rattan Puzzle Coffee Table

By Vivai del Sud

Located in Isle Sur Sorgue, FR

Create your own coffee table shape with these fun yet 6 functional rattan triangle tables. High quality work, entirely hand made. Excellent condition.

Category

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rattan

$12,500Sale Price|50% Off

H 18 in W 15 in D 7 in

26 Cubes

Located in Atlanta, GA

Born March 15, 1943 in Szekelyudvarhely, Transylvania, Hungary (now Romania), Marton Varo studied sculpture at Ion Andreescu Institute of Arts in Cluj, Romania from 1960 to 1966. In...

Category

2010s Post-Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Marble

Vasa Mihich Acrylic Cube Sculptures Mid Century Post Modern

$2,360Sale Price|20% Off

$401

$1,376

H 11.82 in W 7.49 in D 7.49 in

Ko Verzuu for Ado, Mid-Century Modern, Wood Blocks Construction Netherlands Toy

By ADO, Ko Verzuu

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Toy designed by Ko Verzuu, circa 1930. Manufactured by ADO in Netherlands. ADO Blokken, canvas bag with a set of wooden blocks / cubes to play. In good original condition, with min...

Category

Vintage 1930s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Toys and Dolls

Materials

Canvas, Wood

Invertible Cube Signed, Colored and Handmade by Paul Schatz, 1898-1979

$10,295

H 4.93 in W 4.93 in D 4.93 in

Invertible Cube Signed, Colored and Handmade by Paul Schatz, 1898-1979

By Paul Schatz

Located in Munster, NRW

The invertible cube, signed, colored and handmade by Paul Schatz, 1898-1979. Anthroposoph, Artist & Mathematician, (authenticity confirmed by Paul Schatz Foundation). Measures...

Category

Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Mobiles and Kinetic Sculptures

Materials

Paper

People Also Browsed

Vintage Wooden Barley-Twist Hourglass with Hand-Blown Glass

$475

H 9 in W 5 in D 4.5 in

Vintage Wooden Barley-Twist Hourglass with Hand-Blown Glass

Located in San Diego, CA

A handsome vintage hourglass featuring a solid wood frame with classic barley-twist turned supports and a faceted hexagonal top and base. The hourglass contains hand-blown glass bulb...

Category

Early 20th Century American Post-Modern Scientific Instruments

Materials

Glass, Wood

Tronador Square Blue Onyx Box by AIREDELSUR, Hand-Carved Design

$1,584 / item

H 3.94 in W 6.3 in D 6.3 in

Tronador Square Blue Onyx Box by AIREDELSUR, Hand-Carved Design

By AIREDELSUR

Located in Buenos Aires, AR

The shape of the inactive Tronador volcano reminded us of the pyramid shaped idea of our boxes that make up this collection. With a rectangular or square base, the box is a reflectio...

Category

2010s Argentine Modern Decorative Boxes

$3,500

$255 / item

H 4.73 in W 11.82 in D 11.82 in

Scandinavian Contemporary Natural Oak Klot30, Bed Side Table, Shelf

By Lukas Dahlén

Located in Visby, SE

The half sphere holding the plane contributes to a bold yet minimal look that works well in several different spaces and environments. Whether used as a shelf for an extraordinary ob...

Category

2010s Swedish Minimalist Shelves

Materials

Ash, Oak

Art Deco style lamp with cat EQUILIBRE signed Gaillard for Max Le Verrier.

$1,135 / item

$200

H 3.13 in W 3.25 in D 1.5 in

Vintage Silver Plate & Glass Swan Form Open Salt Cellar - Mid 20th Century

Located in Chatham, ON

Vintage silver plate and pressed glass open salt cellar - featuring moveable wings that open (see photos) - unsigned - United States (likely) - mid 20th century. Excellent vintage c...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Victorian Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

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Mid Century Puzzle For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the mid century puzzle you’re looking for. A mid century puzzle — often made from wood, metal and brass — can elevate any home. If you’re shopping for a mid century puzzle, we have 109 options in-stock, while there are 1 modern editions to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect mid century puzzle — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each mid century puzzle bearing Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Georgian hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one mid century puzzle that is appealing in its simplicity, but Miguel Berrocal, Miguel Ortiz Berrocal and ADO Toys produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Mid Century Puzzle?

A mid century puzzle can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $1,475, while the lowest priced sells for $175 and the highest can go for as much as $120,000.

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

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

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 celebrated 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.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. 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 Puzzle

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
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.
What is a mid-century sofa?
1 Answer
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.
What is mid-century artwork?
1 Answer
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.
What is mid century decor?
1 Answer
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.
What is a mid-century chair?
1 Answer
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.
What is mid century furniture?
1 Answer
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.
What is mid-century jewelry?
1 Answer
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.
What does mid century mean?
1 Answer
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.
What does mid century modern mean?
1 Answer
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.
What is mid century modern furniture?
2 Answers
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.
Is Eames mid-century modern?
1 Answer
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.
What years are mid century modern?
1 Answer
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.
What years are considered mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
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.
Are the 1970s mid-century?
1 Answer
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.
How can you tell if furniture is mid century?
1 Answer
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.
How can you tell if a chair is mid century?
1 Answer
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.
How do you identify mid century lamps?
1 Answer
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.
Why is mid century modern popular?
1 Answer
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.
What makes a dresser mid-century?
1 Answer
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.
Is rattan mid-century modern?
1 Answer
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.