Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

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

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

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

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

Question 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 16

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 18

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

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

Question 20

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

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

Mid Century Selves

2010s Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Made To Oder Mid Century Style Cane Credenza

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Danish Mid-Century Modern Chest on Chest by Sven Ellekaer

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Teak Fresco Sideboard from G-Plan, 1960s

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Jalama End Table by Levi Christiansen x Lawson-Fenning, Small

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Jalama End Table by Levi Christiansen x Lawson-Fenning, Large

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

1950s Edward Wormley for Dunbar Wave Credenza

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cabinet

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Shelves

Pastoe wall system, design Cees Braakman 1950 Holland

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Jalama Console by Levi Christiansen x Lawson-Fenning

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Jalama Console by Levi Christiansen x Lawson-Fenning

Mid-20th Century Modern More Art

Jean LurçatVintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Mid-20th Century Modern More Art

Jean LurçatVintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Mid-20th Century Modern More Art

Jean LurçatVintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Mounted Objects

Vintage Wall Relief Captain Alte Seebär, Masculinity, 1970s

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Abstract Prints

Jean LurçatThe warrior, 1953

Mid-20th Century Modern Animal Paintings

Jean LurçatVintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Watercolor Painting Mod Blue and Orange Owl, c.1950's

21st Century and Contemporary Academic Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Christopher GanzDusk from the Tomb of Lorenzo di Piero de'Medici - Original Ink Drawing, 2018

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzDescent, 2008

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzFlayed Wax-Cast Figure - Original Ink Drawing, Matted and Signed, 2016

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Drawings and Waterc...

Christopher GanzThe Belltower of Piza, a Pleine Aire Study in Pen and Chalk, Matted and Framed, 2014

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzThe Reclamation - Large Scale Charcoal Drawing, 2015

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzDavid & Goliath - Caravaggio Inspired Monumental Double Self-Portrait, Charcoal, 2001

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzThe Rape of Persephone by Bernini, Galleria Borghese -Original Sepia Ink Drawing, 2010

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Prints

Christopher GanzSelf Check-Out - Several Self Portraits in the Chaos of a Big Box Store, Framed, 2005

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Water...

Christopher GanzWoman at Rest, Nude Female, Pastel and Charcoal Drawing on Green Paper, 2013

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Landscape Drawings and Waterc...

Christopher GanzView of Siena with the Duomo - Ink and Crayon Drawing, Matted and Framed, 2017

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - Her Roots, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - She Is Here, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - For Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - Own, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - The New Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

2010s Contemporary Color Photography

Isabelle Van ZeijlIsabelle Van Zeijl - For Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Christopher GanzChiaroscuro, 2017

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Cobi MoulesUntitled (Mountain view of Schroon Lake) - Figurative landscape oil painting, 2021

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Cobi MoulesUntitled (Adirondacks) - Figurative landscape painting, 2021

2010s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Cobi MoulesUntitled (Ship Harbor), 2020

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-20th Century Original Oil on Canvas Painting "Women in Purple" by, Ardell

2010s Contemporary Figurative Paintings

Ian RobinsonKaempfer's Japanese Manuscripts: Photorealistic Painting by Ian Robinson, 2019

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

Tea Trolley Bar Cart Poul Hundevad Denmark 1950s Mid-Century Modern Palisander

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Jean Lurçat
Vintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Jean Lurçat
Vintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Jean Lurçat
Vintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Glazed Ceramic Art Plate Sant-Vicens France, c.1950's

Jean Lurçat
The warrior, 1953

Jean Lurçat
Vintage French Modernist Jean Lurcat Watercolor Painting Mod Blue and Orange Owl, c.1950's

Christopher Ganz
Dusk from the Tomb of Lorenzo di Piero de'Medici - Original Ink Drawing, 2018

Christopher Ganz
Descent, 2008

Christopher Ganz
Flayed Wax-Cast Figure - Original Ink Drawing, Matted and Signed, 2016

Christopher Ganz
The Belltower of Piza, a Pleine Aire Study in Pen and Chalk, Matted and Framed, 2014

Christopher Ganz
The Reclamation - Large Scale Charcoal Drawing, 2015

Christopher Ganz
David & Goliath - Caravaggio Inspired Monumental Double Self-Portrait, Charcoal, 2001

Christopher Ganz
The Rape of Persephone by Bernini, Galleria Borghese -Original Sepia Ink Drawing, 2010

Christopher Ganz
Self Check-Out - Several Self Portraits in the Chaos of a Big Box Store, Framed, 2005

Christopher Ganz
Woman at Rest, Nude Female, Pastel and Charcoal Drawing on Green Paper, 2013

Christopher Ganz
View of Siena with the Duomo - Ink and Crayon Drawing, Matted and Framed, 2017

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - Her Roots, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - She Is Here, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - For Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - Own, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - The New Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Isabelle Van Zeijl
Isabelle Van Zeijl - For Me, Photography 2020, Printed After, 2020

Christopher Ganz
Chiaroscuro, 2017

Cobi Moules
Untitled (Mountain view of Schroon Lake) - Figurative landscape oil painting, 2021

Cobi Moules
Untitled (Adirondacks) - Figurative landscape painting, 2021

Cobi Moules
Untitled (Ship Harbor), 2020

Ian Robinson
Kaempfer's Japanese Manuscripts: Photorealistic Painting by Ian Robinson, 2019

Gerdine Duijsens
Fine Dining in Blue, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Botox Beauty 24, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Botox Beauty 31, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Botox Beauty 23, 2016

Gerdine Duijsens
Empty Glasses, 2016

Gerdine Duijsens
Botox Beauty 32, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Party Time, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Cheers, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Reception in Purple, 2017

Gerdine Duijsens
Happy Couple in Blue , 2018

Gerdine Duijsens
Le Buffet, 2016

Christopher Ganz
Oil Refinery at Night (Study for Reclamation), 2010