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.

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.

Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?

Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Shell Chair

Brown Boucle Chair

Four Hands Chairs

1960s Chair Yellow

Modern European Chairs

Clam Chair

Rare Shells

Poland Chair

Herman Miller Eames Shell Chair

1960s Herman Miller Eames Fibreglass Shell MSX-1 Low Dressing Occasional Chair

$541

1960s Herman Miller Eames Fibreglass Shell MSX-1 Low Dressing Occasional Chair

Located in Sherborne, Dorset

A very attractive Herman Miller green MSX-1 Low Chair on an Eames H-Base, previously used as a dressing table chair. This original Cadmium green fibreglass shell retains its matchin...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Hans J. Wegner 'CH07 Shell' 60th Anniversary Lounge Chair in Leather Upholstery

$5,645 / item

Hans J. Wegner 'CH07 Shell' 60th Anniversary Lounge Chair in Leather Upholstery

By Carl Hansen & Søn, Hans J. Wegner

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Hans J. Wegner 'CH07 Shell' 60th Anniversary Rosewood Lounge Chair in Leather Upholstery for Carl Hansen & Son. The story of Danish Modern begins in 1908 when Carl Hansen opened...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Leather, Oak, Rosewood

ST 664 Shell Chairs, Designed by Eddie Harlis

$1,700 / item

ST 664 Shell Chairs, Designed by Eddie Harlis

By Eddie Harlis, Thonet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

The ST 664 chair designed by Eddie Harlis in 1954. Thonet manufactured the chairs in Germany. These chairs are no longer produced. The chair has a yellow stained finish and are made ...

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Twelve

$6,995 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Twelve

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of twelve Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fibergla...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Eight

$4,995 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Eight

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of eight Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fiberglas...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Ten

$5,995 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Ten

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of ten Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fiberglass ...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

$2,395 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of four Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fiberglass...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

$2,395 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of four Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fiberglass...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

$2,395 / set

Charles & Ray Eames DSS Seal Brown Stacking Shell Chairs Set of Four

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in South Bend, IN

An iconic set of four Eames "DSS" shell side chairs, dining chairs, or office chairs By Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller USA, Circa 1980s Rare "seal brown" colored fiberglass...

Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Set of Four Midcentury Tortoise Shell Style Burnt Bamboo Folding Chairs

$1,400 / set

Set of Four Midcentury Tortoise Shell Style Burnt Bamboo Folding Chairs

By Ficks Reed

Located in Doylestown, PA

Beautiful set of four vintage tortoise shell burnt bamboo folding chairs. Great for extra side seating or dining chairs featuring an open weave rattan cane seat back and a space-savi...

Category

Mid-20th Century Bohemian Side Chairs

Materials

Bamboo, Rattan

Mid Century Teak & Steel Chairs - Style of Gerrit Rietveld and Joseph-Andre Mott

$3,302 / item

Mid Century Teak & Steel Chairs - Style of Gerrit Rietveld and Joseph-Andre Mott

By Gerrit Rietveld Jr., Artifort

Located in Reading, Berkshire

Mid Century Teak and Ebonised Steel Shell Rocking Chair, in the Manner of Gerrit Rietveld and Joseph-André Motte for Artifort Description Price per chair.

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Red Crimson Eames Herman Miller Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$750 / item

Red Crimson Eames Herman Miller Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Unique Matteo Grassi Soft Leather Arm Chair in Aluminium Shell by Kunihide Oshi

$2,278

Unique Matteo Grassi Soft Leather Arm Chair in Aluminium Shell by Kunihide Oshi

By Matteo Grassi, Kunihide Oshinomi

Located in Voorburg, NL

Unique Italian black leather armchair with an aluminium shell. Designed by Kunihide Oshinomi and manufactured by Matteo Grassi. This lounge chairs is extremely comfortable to sit in....

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs

Materials

Aluminum

Rainer Schell for Schlapp Möbel Modell Canto Shell Chair Saddle Leather, 1964

$1,713 / item

Rainer Schell for Schlapp Möbel Modell Canto Shell Chair Saddle Leather, 1964

Located in Munich, Bavaria

This Lounge chair was designed by Architect Rainer Schell 1964 It was produced by German manufacturer Franz Schlapp Möbel. Schell was a master student from Architect Egon Eiermann. T...

Category

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

Materials

Leather, Wood, Beech

Shell Lounge Square Chair in Natural Walnut with upholstery seat in leather

$1,963 / item

Shell Lounge Square Chair in Natural Walnut with upholstery seat in leather

By Niko Kralj

Located in Ljubljana, SI

Shell Lounge Square designed mid-century architect and designer Niko Kralj in 1956.

Category

2010s Slovenian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Walnut

Vintage Carved Wood Shell Back Dining Chairs - Set Of 4

$3,950 / set

Vintage Carved Wood Shell Back Dining Chairs - Set Of 4

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

This set of four carved wood dining chairs, two armchairs and two side chairs, shares a graceful, sculptural silhouette crowned by a generous scallop-shell back. Each shell is carved...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Venetian Grotto Hollywood Regency Style Scalloped Shell Back Dining Chair

$1,995

Venetian Grotto Hollywood Regency Style Scalloped Shell Back Dining Chair

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Venetian Grotto Hollywood Regency Style Scalloped Shell Back Dining Chair This chair measures: 19.5 wide x 21 deep x 37 inches high, with a seat height/chair clearance of 19 inches ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Ib Kofod-Larsen, Shell Lounge Chair, Teak, Beech, Leather, Denmark, 1950s

$3,800

Ib Kofod-Larsen, Shell Lounge Chair, Teak, Beech, Leather, Denmark, 1950s

By Ib Kofod-Larsen, Christensen & Larsen

Located in High Point, NC

A teak, beech and black leather lounge chair designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen and produced by Christensen & Larsen, Denmark, 1950s. Seat height: 16.5”

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Leather, Beech, Teak

Seldom seen shell color "Ochre Light "Charles Eames / Herman Miller side chair

$1,199

Seldom seen shell color "Ochre Light "Charles Eames / Herman Miller side chair

By Herman Miller, Charles Eames

Located in Buffalo, NY

Iconic chair designed by Charles & Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Molded fiberglass shell in seldom seen Ochre Light Color.. Mounted on vintage black steel H-base. chair in very good ...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Steel

Cayenne Lounge Chair, Shell Velvet/High Gloss Varnish Brown Solid Oak

$4,118Sale Price / item|20% Off

Cayenne Lounge Chair, Shell Velvet/High Gloss Varnish Brown Solid Oak

By Marie Burgos Design

Located in Brooklyn, NY

The Cayenne lounge chair is a deft homage to midcentury design. Designer Marie Burgos has taken the clean lines that defined seating designs of that era and given them a luxurious ne...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric

French Louis XV Style Carved Shell & Painted Caned Bergere Chairs -Pair

$3,125 / set

French Louis XV Style Carved Shell & Painted Caned Bergere Chairs -Pair

Located in Kennesaw, GA

This is a lovely pair of French Louis XV style caned bergere chairs with vintage check upholstery. The upholstery feels like silk but could be a blend. The frames are ivory painted w...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Louis XV Bergere Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Oak, Down

Six Vintage Eames Herman Miller Swivel Shell Chairs on Casters 1970s

$6,320Sale Price / set|20% Off

Six Vintage Eames Herman Miller Swivel Shell Chairs on Casters 1970s

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Baltimore, MD

Authentic rare Mid-Century Modern iconic molded fiberglass pivoting shell office or dining chairs on "contract bases" (PSC chairs) with casters, two armchairs and four side chairs, c...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Aluminum

Set of Eames for Herman Miller Fiberglass Shell DSS Chairs

$2,500 / set

Set of Eames for Herman Miller Fiberglass Shell DSS Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Cedar Falls, IA

Original set of 5 DSS molded fiberglass shell chairs on stacking base, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Very nice glossy fiberglass shells on steel stacking base...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Steel

Burke Tulip Side Chairs No 103 White Shell Oval Stationary 4 Prong Bases Set 4

$2,795 / set

Burke Tulip Side Chairs No 103 White Shell Oval Stationary 4 Prong Bases Set 4

By Burke, Inc., Maurice Burke

Located in Topeka, KS

Wonderful Mid-20th Century MCM or Mid Century Modern Tulip side chairs No. 103 by Burke comprised of white fiberglass armless shells or frames & 4 prong fiberglass oval non-swive...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Midcentury Charles Eames by Herman Miller Orange Fiberglass Shell Chair

$885 / item

Midcentury Charles Eames by Herman Miller Orange Fiberglass Shell Chair

By Charles Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Mortsel, BE

Additionally, we are thrilled to inform you that we also have the original table available, complementing these chairs perfectly. Embrace the elegance and sophistication of the Mi...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Pair of Charles and Ray Eames Swivel Padded Arm Shell Chairs, Two-Tone

$2,200 / item

Pair of Charles and Ray Eames Swivel Padded Arm Shell Chairs, Two-Tone

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Buffalo, NY

Pair of Charles and Ray Eames swivel padded arm shell chairs, unusual color combination, early brown exposed fiberglass shells. Mustard yellow fabric covers, gray piping, early four ...

Category

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

Materials

Aluminum

Vintage Elda Chair in Grey Leather and Black Shell by Joe Colombo, Italy

$10,914

Vintage Elda Chair in Grey Leather and Black Shell by Joe Colombo, Italy

By Joe Colombo

Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen

Stylish color combination on this vintage Elda chair. Still 100% original. Great patinated grey leather with a black fiberglass shell. This iconic “Elda” armchair was designed...

Category

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

Materials

Leather

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Brown/White Cowhide Walnut Lacquer Carl Hansen

$6,820 / item

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Brown/White Cowhide Walnut Lacquer Carl Hansen

By Carl Hansen & Søn, Hans J. Wegner

Located in New York, NY

Hans J. Wegner’s architectural expertise is exhibited in the CH07 Shell Chair with the design’s floating lightness through its wing-like seat and three arched legs. The chair’s signa...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Cowhide, Walnut

Early 2nd Generation X Base Translucent Arm Shell Lounge Chair by Charles Eames

$1,780

Early 2nd Generation X Base Translucent Arm Shell Lounge Chair by Charles Eames

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Buffalo, NY

Early 2nd generation X base translucent arm shell lounge chair by Charles Eames for Herman Miller. Amazing condition, featuring low aluminum X base, large domes of silence shock moun...

Category

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

Materials

Aluminum

ST 664 Shell Chairs, Designed by Eddie Harlis, Orange

$1,700 / item

ST 664 Shell Chairs, Designed by Eddie Harlis, Orange

By Eddie Harlis, Thonet

Located in Los Angeles, CA

The ST 664 chair designed by Eddie Harlis in 1954. Thonet manufactured the chairs in Germany. These chairs are no longer produced. The chair has an orange painted finish and are made...

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Early Pair Harry Bertoia Molded Fiberglass Shell Side Chairs for Knoll, Labeled

$1,490 / set

Early Pair Harry Bertoia Molded Fiberglass Shell Side Chairs for Knoll, Labeled

By Knoll, Harry Bertoia

Located in Buffalo, NY

Matched Pair molded fiberglass shell side chairs designed by Harry Bertoia and manufactured by Knoll. Originally debuted in 1960, this very early set is from 1966 ,Classic modernist ...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Iron

Parchment Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$850 / item

Parchment Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Set of Six Eames Fiberglass Shell Chairs by Herman Miller, 1960

$3,600 / set

Set of Six Eames Fiberglass Shell Chairs by Herman Miller, 1960

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Portland, OR

Very clean set of classic Eames chairs in Parchment. Original Eiffel bases. This set has been together since its production- circa 1960. The chairs are in excellent vintage condition...

Category

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

Materials

Steel

Herman Miller Eames Side Shell Chair in Seafoam Light on Black H Base

$1,200

Herman Miller Eames Side Shell Chair in Seafoam Light on Black H Base

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Grand Rapids, MI

Gorgeous color and original mid-century style. Chair will be disassembled to ship via UPS ground.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Red /orange Fiberglass Charles Eames Side Shell Chair, Scoop, Herman Miller

$690

Red /orange Fiberglass Charles Eames Side Shell Chair, Scoop, Herman Miller

By Herman Miller, Charles Eames

Located in Buffalo, NY

Classic Mid-Century Modern side shell chair, "SCOOP" designed by Charles and Ray Eames manufactured by Herman Miller, amazing red / orange fiberglass, retain beautiful gel coat, exp...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Metal

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Brown/White Cowhide Oak White Oil Carl Hansen

$6,035 / item

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Brown/White Cowhide Oak White Oil Carl Hansen

By Hans J. Wegner, Carl Hansen & Søn

Located in New York, NY

Hans J. Wegner’s architectural expertise is exhibited in the CH07 Shell Chair with the design’s floating lightness through its wing-like seat and three arched legs. The chair’s signa...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Oak, Cowhide

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Leather Loke 7150 Walnut Lacquer for Carl Hansen

$6,170 / item

Hans J. Wegner CH07 Shell Chair Leather Loke 7150 Walnut Lacquer for Carl Hansen

By Hans J. Wegner, Carl Hansen & Søn

Located in New York, NY

Hans J. Wegner’s architectural expertise is exhibited in the CH07 Shell Chair with the design’s floating lightness through its wing-like seat and three arched legs. The chair’s signa...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Walnut, Leather

First Edition Charles Eames Paw Chair Swivel Fibre Glass Shell Dowel Leg Walnut

$6,576

First Edition Charles Eames Paw Chair Swivel Fibre Glass Shell Dowel Leg Walnut

By Charles Eames

Located in Hamburg, DE

First production, first generation 1949-1950 Zenith Herman Miller, Charles Eames PAW rope swivel chair in color grey elephant, dowel legs in birch / all original parts. The awesome d...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Swivel Chairs

Materials

Steel

1950's Shell Back Italian Mahogany Dining Chairs Set Of 6

$9,500 / set

1950's Shell Back Italian Mahogany Dining Chairs Set Of 6

Located in New York, NY

Amazing set of 6 1950's shell back Italian mahogany dining chairs with inaly detail, fully restored and re-upholstered with some wear and patina due to age and use, the were made in....

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Mahogany

Eames Herman Miller Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs in Primary Colors Bauhaus

$750 / item

Eames Herman Miller Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs in Primary Colors Bauhaus

By Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available in Primary Colors. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractiv...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Eames Herman Miller DSS Ochre Yellow Mustard Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$700 / item

Eames Herman Miller DSS Ochre Yellow Mustard Vintage Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Early Set of Four Harry Bertoia Molded Shell Side Chairs for Knoll, Labeled

$3,000Sale Price / set|33% Off

Early Set of Four Harry Bertoia Molded Shell Side Chairs for Knoll, Labeled

By Harry Bertoia, Knoll

Located in Chesterfield, NJ

Set of four molded shell side chairs designed by Harry Bertoia and manufactured by Knoll. Originally debuted in 1960, this very early set is from 1963 and includes four colors - beig...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs

Materials

Metal

Pair of Important Philadelphia Shell Carved Walnut Chippendale Side Chairs C1765

$19,600Sale Price / set|39% Off

Pair of Important Philadelphia Shell Carved Walnut Chippendale Side Chairs C1765

Located in Swedesboro, NJ

This pair of Philadelphia Chippendale shell carved chairs embodies history, artistry, and timeless elegance—ideal for collectors of 18th-century antiques and period interiors.

Category

Antique Mid-18th Century American Chippendale Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Silk, Walnut

Brilliant Yellow Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$750 / item

Brilliant Yellow Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Ochre Yellow Mustard Eames Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$750 / item

Ochre Yellow Mustard Eames Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Pair of Danish Sculptural Shell Chairs by Ib Kofod-Larsen in Teak and Beech

$5,800 / set

Pair of Danish Sculptural Shell Chairs by Ib Kofod-Larsen in Teak and Beech

By Christensen & Larsen, Ib Kofod-Larsen

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Pair of 1950s Danish beech and teak shell chairs designed by Ib Kofod-Larsen for Christensen & Larsen. Composed of a deeply sculpted bent-teakwood back and seat mounted to a beech fr...

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Beech, Teak

1960s Pair of Rare Miroslav Navratil Shell Lounge Chairs in Sheepskin Fabric, C

$2,513 / set

1960s Pair of Rare Miroslav Navratil Shell Lounge Chairs in Sheepskin Fabric, C

By Miroslav Navratil

Located in Praha, CZ

- Newly upholstered with quality synthetic fabric imitating sheepskin - beech legs have been refurbished - height of seat 40 cm.

Category

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fabric, Beech

Arne Jacobsen Chair 3107 (Series 7), Beechwood Shell, Chrome Legs, Danish Design

$342

Arne Jacobsen Chair 3107 (Series 7), Beechwood Shell, Chrome Legs, Danish Design

By Arne Jacobsen

Located in Hannover, DE

A timeless classic that fits perfectly into modern, Scandinavian, and mid-century inspired interiors. The chair features a beechwood shell, which has been carefully refinished and o...

Category

Early 2000s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Metal

Eames Fiberglass Shell Chairs by Charles and Ray Eames, 1986

$1,000Sale Price / set|20% Off

Eames Fiberglass Shell Chairs by Charles and Ray Eames, 1986

By Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Denton, TX

Eames for Herman Miller fiberglass shell chairs with original blue upholstery. These can be stacked or used anwhere around the house.

Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs

Materials

Metal

Greige Light Grey Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$700 / item

Greige Light Grey Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Price for Stacking base. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their at...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Greige Light Grey Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

$750 / item

Greige Light Grey Eames for Herman Miller Vintage 1960s Fiberglass Shell Chairs

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Multiple Available. Original Molded Fiberglass Shell Chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames for Herman Miller. Vintage shell chairs are prized for their attractive patina, distinct...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Eames Herman Miller Fiberglass Shell DSX Chair from IBM c 1950/60's

$395

Eames Herman Miller Fiberglass Shell DSX Chair from IBM c 1950/60's

By Charles and Ray Eames, Herman Miller

Located in New York, NY

Iconic Mid century DSX fiberglass chair, designed by Charles and Ray Eames, produced by Herman Miller circa 1950/60's. This example is in very fine, original, clean and ready to use ...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Gray Boucle Shell Armchair, Germany, 1960s

$913 / item

Gray Boucle Shell Armchair, Germany, 1960s

Located in Rīga, LV

Vintage German shell-form armchair with black metal legs.

Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Metal

Vintage Blue Green Iron Shell Back Grotto Brown Jordan Regency Patio chairs 14

$10,500

Vintage Blue Green Iron Shell Back Grotto Brown Jordan Regency Patio chairs 14

By Brown Jordan

Located in Jensen Beach, FL

A wonderful vintage set of 14 Brown Jordan Regency style iron shell back grotto patio pr dining room chairs. It is rare to have such a huge set of these chairs at one time. The chai...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Iron

Set of six swivel armchairs with organic shell, produced in the 1990s

$1,130

Set of six swivel armchairs with organic shell, produced in the 1990s

By Pierre Paulin

Located in LYON, FR

Maison Lecan presents this set of six swivel armchairs with organic shell, produced in the 1990s in the formal continuity of the vocabulary developed by Pierre Paulin for Artifort, e...

Category

1990s French Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Steel

Arkana Set of Four White Shell Seat Pedestal Chairs by Burke Maurice, 1960's

$1,695 / set

Arkana Set of Four White Shell Seat Pedestal Chairs by Burke Maurice, 1960's

By Arkana Furniture

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Produced by Arkana in the 1960s, these four shell seat pedestal chairs were designed by Maurice Burke. Each chair features a molded white shell seat with a gently curved back, mounte...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Plastic

Vintage Burke Tulip Swivel Armchairs No 116 White Shell Black Cushions Set of 4

$2,495 / set

Vintage Burke Tulip Swivel Armchairs No 116 White Shell Black Cushions Set of 4

By Maurice Burke, Burke, Inc.

Located in Topeka, KS

Awesome Mid-20th Century Mid Century Modern Tulip Swivel No. 116 Armchairs by Burke comprised of a white fiberglass armed shell or frame, white painted metal shaft, 4 prong fiberglas...

Category

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

Materials

Metal

Set of 6 original Borg Mogensen “Shell chairs” model: 155 for Soborg 1950 Danish

$12,394 / set

Set of 6 original Borg Mogensen “Shell chairs” model: 155 for Soborg 1950 Danish

By Børge Mogensen

Located in Ijzendijke, NL

An increasingly rare opportunity to acquire a complete set of six original Model 155 chairs, ideal for both collectors and interiors seeking authentic mid-century Scandinavian design.

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak, Teak

Set of Eight Italian Modern Shell Dining Chairs in Teak and Bouclé by Saporiti

$8,500 / set

Set of Eight Italian Modern Shell Dining Chairs in Teak and Bouclé by Saporiti

By Fratelli Saporiti

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Set of eight dining chairs with teak frames and seat and back shells of molded teak plywood by Fratelli Saporiti (ca. 1960s, Italy). Elegant, organic form enhanced by the floating-li...

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Bouclé, Teak, Plywood

1 Herman Miller Eames Fiberglass Shell DAR Eiffel Base

$1,280Sale Price / item|20% Off

1 Herman Miller Eames Fiberglass Shell DAR Eiffel Base

By Charles and Ray Eames

Located in Pasadena, TX

Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of Mid-Century Modern American design, and have been recognized as the most inf...

Category

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

Materials

Fiberglass

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Mid Century Shell Chair For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the mid century shell chair you’re looking for. Each mid century shell chair for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using plastic, metal and fiberglass. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer mid century shell chair, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. Each mid century shell chair bearing Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency or Scandinavian Modern hallmarks is very popular. Many designers have produced at least one well-made mid century shell chair over the years, but those crafted by Herman Miller, Charles and Ray Eames and Charles Eames are often thought to be among the most beautiful.

How Much is a Mid Century Shell Chair?

The average selling price for a mid century shell chair at 1stDibs is $1,712, while they’re typically $245 on the low end and $34,500 for the highest priced.

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.

Finding the Right Seating for You

With entire areas of our homes reserved for “sitting rooms,” the value of quality antique and vintage seating cannot be overstated.

Fortunately, the design of side chairs, armchairs and other lounge furniture — since what were, quite literally, the early perches of our ancestors — has evolved considerably.

Among the earliest standard seating furniture were stools. Egyptian stools, for example, designed for one person with no seat back, were x-shaped and typically folded to be tucked away. These rudimentary chairs informed the design of Greek and Roman stools, all of which were a long way from Sori Yanagi's Butterfly stool or Alvar Aalto's Stool 60. In the 18th century and earlier, seats with backs and armrests were largely reserved for high nobility.

The seating of today is more inclusive but the style and placement of chairs can still make a statement. Antique desk chairs and armchairs designed in the style of Louis XV, which eventually included painted furniture and were often made of rare woods, feature prominently curved legs as well as Chinese themes and varied ornaments. Much like the thrones of fairy tales and the regency, elegant lounges crafted in the Louis XV style convey wealth and prestige. In the kitchen, the dining chair placed at the head of the table is typically reserved for the head of the household or a revered guest.

Of course, with luxurious vintage or antique furnishings, every chair can seem like the best seat in the house. Whether your preference is stretching out on a plush sofa, such as the Serpentine, designed by Vladimir Kagan, or cozying up in a vintage wingback chair, there is likely to be a comfy classic or contemporary gem for you on 1stDibs.

With respect to the latest obsessions in design, cane seating has been cropping up everywhere, from sleek armchairs to lounge chairs, while bouclé fabric, a staple of modern furniture design, can be seen in mid-century modern, Scandinavian modern and Hollywood Regency furniture styles.

Admirers of the sophisticated craftsmanship and dark woods frequently associated with mid-century modern seating can find timeless furnishings in our expansive collection of lounge chairs, dining chairs and other items — whether they’re vintage editions or alluring official reproductions of iconic designs from the likes of Hans Wegner or from Charles and Ray Eames. Shop our inventory of Egg chairs, designed in 1958 by Arne Jacobsen, the Florence Knoll lounge chair and more.

No matter your style, the collection of unique chairs, sofas and other seating on 1stDibs is surely worthy of a standing ovation.

Questions About Mid Century Shell Chair

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.
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.
Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

How Top Designers Are Using Mid-Century Chairs in Today’s Interiors

Modern icons are showing up in gracefully layered dining nooks, living rooms and lounges — proof that great design only gets better with context.

The 21 Most Popular Mid-Century Modern Chairs

You know the designs, now get the stories about how they came to be.

Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair Shook Modernism and Charmed Hollywood

The enduring appeal of the Barcelona chair is in the details.

Herman Miller Got Its Start in the Office, but Its Legacy Is in the Home

The brand that turned Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson into mid-century household names is just as relevant today as it was six decades ago.