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 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 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.

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.

What time is considered mid-century??

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.

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

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.

Is mid-century modern timeless?

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

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.

Mid Century Torchiere

Art Deco Torchiere Floor Lamp

Pair Torchieres

Torchiere Wall

Lucite Torchiere

Mid-Century Torchiere Floor Lamp by Walter von Nessen

$1,150 / item

Mid-Century Torchiere Floor Lamp by Walter von Nessen

By Nessen Lighting, Walter Von Nessen

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Mid-Century torchiere floor lamps by Walter von Nessen, each finished in white enameled aluminum.

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Aluminum, Enamel

Copper Mid-Century Torchiere Table Lamps, Pair

$4,370

Copper Mid-Century Torchiere Table Lamps, Pair

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Vintage pair of Mid-Century copper torchière table lamps with leaded glass center accent.

Category

Vintage 1940s North American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Copper

Mid Century Modern Venetian Glass Torchiere Lamp

$2,375

Mid Century Modern Venetian Glass Torchiere Lamp

Located in Norwood, NJ

Murano glass midcentury torchiere floor lamp with silvered bronze legs and decorative elements. Hand blown fluted glass columns with gold flecks. Original torchere shade from spun al...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Bronze

Mid Century Thurston for Lightolier Torchiere

$1,500

Mid Century Thurston for Lightolier Torchiere

By Gerald Thurston, Lightolier

Located in New York, NY

Classic mid century torchiere floor lamp, designed by Gerald Thurston, for Lightolier.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Steel

Pair Of Mid Century Stiffel Torchiere Table Lamps

$895 / set

Pair Of Mid Century Stiffel Torchiere Table Lamps

By Stiffel

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Pair of mid century torchiere table lamps by Stiffel in brass with white enameling.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Monumental Mid Century Porcelain and Brass Genie Torchiere Lamps

$1,500Sale Price|25% Off

Monumental Mid Century Porcelain and Brass Genie Torchiere Lamps

Located in Waxahachie, TX

Striking, monumental, Genie shaped, atomic mid century torchiere lamps. These could be considered either floor or table lamps.

Category

Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired Torchiere Floor Lamps

$595 / item

Mid-Century Frank Lloyd Wright Inspired Torchiere Floor Lamps

By (after) Frank Lloyd Wright

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Mid-Century Frank Lloyd Wright-Inspired Torchiere Floor Lamps with Faux Granite and White Glass Panels – Individually Available Evoking the iconic Prairie School aesthetic of Frank ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Other Floor Lamps

Materials

Composition

Mid-Century Modern Brass Toned Torchiere Floor Lamp with ribbed glass diffuser.

$795

Mid-Century Modern Brass Toned Torchiere Floor Lamp with ribbed glass diffuser.

Located in Seattle, WA

Striking mid-century torchiere floor lamp in brass with a sculptural design element in cast patinated metal.

Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Lucite Floor Lamp or Torchiere

$2,650

Mid-Century Modern Lucite Floor Lamp or Torchiere

Located in Houston, TX

Mid-Century Modern lucite floor lamp or torchiere.

Category

Vintage 1970s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Tripod Torchiere Floor Lamp by "Keystone"

$940Sale Price|20% Off

Mid-Century Tripod Torchiere Floor Lamp by "Keystone"

By Keystone Manufacturing Company

Located in Esperance, NY

Mid-century tripod torchiere floor lamp by "Keystone".

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Colonial Premier Brass Torchiere Trophy Urn Uplight Table Lamp 25"

$500

Mid Century Colonial Premier Brass Torchiere Trophy Urn Uplight Table Lamp 25"

Located in Dayton, OH

Early to mid 20th century table lamp by the Colonial Premier Company of Chicago.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Hollywood Regency Tables

Materials

Brass

Early Mid-century Copper Stacked Base Torchiere Table Lamp

$3,295

Early Mid-century Copper Stacked Base Torchiere Table Lamp

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Early Mid-century copper torchiere table lamp, featuring a slender copper torchiere lampshade and stacked base made of lacquered wood steps with decorative copper links.

Category

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Copper

Mid-Century Modern Torchiere F. Fabbian Floor Lamp Italian Architectural Brass

$1,500

Mid-Century Modern Torchiere F. Fabbian Floor Lamp Italian Architectural Brass

By F. Fabbian

Located in Keego Harbor, MI

For your consideration is a fantastic, tall black and brass Torchiere floor lamp by F. Fabbian from Italy. With articulating head. In excellent condition. The dimensions are 11" W x ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid Century Modern Minimalist Floor Lamp Torchiere by Laurel Lamp.

$2,200Sale Price|51% Off

Mid Century Modern Minimalist Floor Lamp Torchiere by Laurel Lamp.

By Gio Ponti

Located in Peoria, AZ

ITALIAN TYLE LAUREL FLOOR LAMP / TORCHIERE MID CENTURY LIGHTING SCULPTURE BLACK ENAMEL DIMENSIONS: HEIGHT 63" GLOBE TOP 12" WIDE" BASE 12" WIDE ( CIRCA 1960 ) This torchiere is...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

California Ranch Mid Century Wrought Iron Torchiere Standing Candelabra

$1,495

California Ranch Mid Century Wrought Iron Torchiere Standing Candelabra

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Spanish wrought iron torchiere standing candelabra Early 20th century Handcrafted rustic piece Twisted wrought iron pillar supports four arms and floats on a high arched tripod base ...

Category

Early 20th Century Spanish Torchères

Materials

Wrought Iron

Mid-20th Century Stiffel Brass 4-Way Torchiere Milk Glass Floor Lamp

$1,875

Mid-20th Century Stiffel Brass 4-Way Torchiere Milk Glass Floor Lamp

Located in Germantown, MD

Midcentury Stiffel Brass 4-way Torchiere Floor Lamp with milk glass shade. Measures 11" in width, 11" in depth and stands 58.5" tall. Milk glass shade is 8" in diameter and 6" tall.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Italian Mid-Century Tall Brass and Black Lacquer Torchiere

$3,500

Italian Mid-Century Tall Brass and Black Lacquer Torchiere

Located in Queens, NY

Italian Mid-Century Tall Brass and Black Lacquer trimmed floor lamp with a rectangular top light fixture and base connected by a narrow rectangular column

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Italian Brass Torchiere Floor Lamp, Mid-Century Modern, 1970s Design

$2,020

Italian Brass Torchiere Floor Lamp, Mid-Century Modern, 1970s Design

Located in Byron Bay, NSW

The clean cylindrical column rises from a balanced circular base, creating a timeless silhouette that integrates effortlessly into both contemporary and mid-century interiors. Sculp...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Tomlinson Sophisticate Walnut Torchiere Floor Lamp with Table

$1,975

Mid-Century Tomlinson Sophisticate Walnut Torchiere Floor Lamp with Table

By Tomlinson

Located in Germantown, MD

A rare Mid-Century Tomlinson Sophisticate Walnut Torchiere Floor Lamp with Table and milk glass torcchire shade and brass feet.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Walnut

Vintage Rare Mid Century Hollywood Regency Torchiere Floor Lamp

$2,200Sale Price|20% Off

Vintage Rare Mid Century Hollywood Regency Torchiere Floor Lamp

By Stiffel, Karl Springer

Located in San Diego, CA

Floor lamp in the style of Karl Springer for Stiffel. This pieces exudes mid century glamour and style. The chic simple lines have impact and weight. The conical metal laminated shad...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid Century French Country Walnut Tiered 3 Light Torchiere Floor Lamp End Table

$1,000

Mid Century French Country Walnut Tiered 3 Light Torchiere Floor Lamp End Table

Located in Dayton, OH

Mid century French Country dumbwaiter style floor lamp end table.

Category

Mid-20th Century French Provincial Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Torchiere Reading Lamp Style of Kurt Versen

$1,450

Mid-Century Modern Torchiere Reading Lamp Style of Kurt Versen

By Kurt Versen

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Elegant and simple with numerous positions for the reading lamp. Torchiere and flexible reading lamp have separate switches. Newly restored, polished and rewired. A beautiful combina...

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass, Steel

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Blond Maple Stacked Torchiere Floor Lamp

$4,500

Mid-Century Modern Chrome Blond Maple Stacked Torchiere Floor Lamp

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Unique Stacked Aluminum tube and hand-shaped Blond maple torchiere floor lamp with a crystal ball detail along the top. The lamp features a Maple wood base with a series of four alum...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Wood

Pair of Mid-Century Silver Metal Turned Design Floor Torchiere/Candle Holders

$4,500 / set

Pair of Mid-Century Silver Metal Turned Design Floor Torchiere/Candle Holders

Located in Queens, NY

Pair of mid-century silver metal floor torchiere/candleholders with circular bases and a turned design.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Pair of Mid Century Mirrored Torchiere Floor Lamps with Palm Leaves

$16,200 / set

Pair of Mid Century Mirrored Torchiere Floor Lamps with Palm Leaves

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Rare and remarkable pair of vintage torchiere floor lamps crafted with copper shades decorated with copper stylized palm leaves over columns with copper tinted mirrors set on black a...

Category

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Marble, Copper

Merle Edelman Mid Century Pair of Roche Style Torchiere Wall Lamps

$8,300 / set

Merle Edelman Mid Century Pair of Roche Style Torchiere Wall Lamps

Located in Palm Beach, FL

Chic pair of vintage palm tree torchieres in the style of Serge Roche by Merle Edelman crafted in composition in a dramatic modern stylized sculptural form.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Composition

Mid Century Uplight Torchiere By Gerald Thurston and Carl Moser for Lightolier

$2,400

Mid Century Uplight Torchiere By Gerald Thurston and Carl Moser for Lightolier

By Lightolier, Gerald Thurston

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional Mid Century uplight torchiere floor lamp, designed by Gerald Thurston, with glass by Carl Moser, for Lightolier, circa 1950's.

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Documented Mid-Century Modern Hand-Blown Scavo Glass Torchiere by Karl Springer

$8,475

Documented Mid-Century Modern Hand-Blown Scavo Glass Torchiere by Karl Springer

By Karl Springer

Located in New York, NY

This documented Mid-Century Modernist torchiere, designed by the renowned Karl Springer in America circa 1980, and hand-blown in Murano Italy by Seguso Vetri d'Arte, is a remarkable ...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Glass

Mid-century Googie Modern Brushed Aluminum Torchiere Wall Sconce, 4 Available

$950 / item

Mid-century Googie Modern Brushed Aluminum Torchiere Wall Sconce, 4 Available

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Mid-century era Googie brushed aluminum wall sconces with polished brass featuring a torchiere with a large folded aluminum shade connected to a brass.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Aluminum

Mid Century Spun Aluminum Torchiere Wall Sconce, Unused Old Stock

$2,200 / set

Mid Century Spun Aluminum Torchiere Wall Sconce, Unused Old Stock

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Lot of six original new old stock Mid Century spun aluminum torchiere wall sconce featuring a two-piece spun aluminum body with chrome cap and ceramic socket.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Aluminum

1950's Mid Century Modern White and Chrome Floor Lamp Torchiere

$1,600

1950's Mid Century Modern White and Chrome Floor Lamp Torchiere

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Double cone design original Mid-Century Modern floor lamp with chrome body.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Mid Century Handkerchief Form Glass Top Torchiere att. to Bianconi for Venini

$3,500

Mid Century Handkerchief Form Glass Top Torchiere att. to Bianconi for Venini

By Fulvio Bianconi, Venini

Located in New York, NY

Exceptional Hollywood Regency uplight torchiere, having a classic art glass handkerchief form shade mounted on a heavy brass lamp base. Attributed to Fulvio Bianconi for Venini, unsi...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Hollywood Regency Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Reading and Torchiere Lamp Style of Kurt Versen

$1,795

Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Reading and Torchiere Lamp Style of Kurt Versen

By Kurt Versen

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Spectacular floor lamp with great versatility attributed to Kurt Versen. Works as a reading lamp when the lamp shade is directed downward and as a Torchiere when tilted upward. Very ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Art Deco Mid-Century Modern Reading or Torchiere Flip Lamp by Kurt Versen

$3,750

Art Deco Mid-Century Modern Reading or Torchiere Flip Lamp by Kurt Versen

By Kurt Versen

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Simple and elegant Flip floor lamp by Kurt Versen. Spectacular design from 1935 where the lamp doubles as a reading lamp and a torchiere. Just flip the shade upward or downward and i...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Steel

Asymmetric Mid-century Brass Torchiere Floor Lamp w/ Wood Base Smoked Swirl Glas

$1,675

Asymmetric Mid-century Brass Torchiere Floor Lamp w/ Wood Base Smoked Swirl Glas

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Asymmetric Mid-century Brass torchiere floor Lamp w/ wood base and smoked swirl glass shades

Category

Vintage 1940s North American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Modern Tri-Pole Torchiere Patterned Glass Shade by Gerald Thurston

$2,195

Mid-Century Modern Tri-Pole Torchiere Patterned Glass Shade by Gerald Thurston

By Gerald Thurston

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Fabulous tall floor lamp with a tri-pole setup which helps support a beautiful textured and Patterned glass shade 18 inches in diameter. Metal and brass base 14 inch. 3 bulb setup fo...

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Iron

pair of French mid 19th century patinated wood and Giltwood Torchiere pedestals

$29,500 / set

pair of French mid 19th century patinated wood and Giltwood Torchiere pedestals

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A sensational and most impressive pair of French mid 19th century patinated wood and Giltwood Torchière pedestals.

Category

Antique 19th Century French Pedestals and Columns

Materials

Marble

Postmodern Iron Torchiere Floor Lamp

$1,270

Postmodern Iron Torchiere Floor Lamp

Located in W Allenhurst, NJ

Great period Post Modern Torchiere floor lamp. Textured iron frame set atop a travertine base. Wonderful geometrics with an aesthetic movement vibe. Great uplighting. Curbside to NYC...

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Post-Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Travertine, Iron

Mid-Century Modern Hollywood Regency Lucite and Brass Tall Torchiere Floor Lamp

$1,150

Mid-Century Modern Hollywood Regency Lucite and Brass Tall Torchiere Floor Lamp

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A Hollywood Regency Torchiere floor lamp made of brass and Lucite, made in the late 1970s or early 1980's. Classic dramatic look from the period. Very nice condition and working well.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Hollywood Regency Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Art Deco Mid-Century Modern Flip Floor Torchiere and Reading Lamp by Kurt Versen

$3,750

Art Deco Mid-Century Modern Flip Floor Torchiere and Reading Lamp by Kurt Versen

By Kurt Versen

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Simple and elegant Flip floor lamp by Kurt Versen. All brasses polished with a new linen shade. Newly rewired with twin sockets. Iconic floor lamp by Kurt Versen which doubles as a r...

Category

Vintage 1930s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Steel

Art Deco Torchiere Floor Lamp

$2,500

Art Deco Torchiere Floor Lamp

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Art Deco mixed metal floor lamp. This lamp features a spun aluminum top shade and a chrome plated stem and base. The lamp has alternating chrome and black enameled details. Dimensio...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome, Aluminum

Dome Torchiere Floor Lamp for Flos

$2,500

Dome Torchiere Floor Lamp for Flos

By Flos

Located in Los Angeles, CA

White enamel uplight floor lamp for Flos. The modern lamp features a dome shade that directs light upwards and a round chrome foot pedal on/off switch on the newly wired black lamp c...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Enamel, Chrome

Art Nouveau Polished Chrome Torchiere

$1,400Sale Price|20% Off

Art Nouveau Polished Chrome Torchiere

Located in Skokie, IL

Art Nouveau Polished Chrome Torchiere This strikingly beautiful torchiere is truly a work of art. The torchiere has a square polished chrome base with embossed figural animals. The ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Nouveau Floor Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Vintage Art Deco Barovier and Toso Torchiere

$3,975

Vintage Art Deco Barovier and Toso Torchiere

By Ferro Toso Barovier

Located in W Allenhurst, NJ

Beautiful Art Deco floor lamp styled after Barovier and Toso. Very heavy torchiere with fabulous styling. Great frosted glass fluted tube flanked by 2 chrome balls. Black metal coni...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Mid-Century Post Modern Black with Red Torchiere Neon Floor Lamp by Rudi Stern

$2,900

Mid-Century Post Modern Black with Red Torchiere Neon Floor Lamp by Rudi Stern

By Rudi Stern

Located in Philadelphia, PA

A tall post modern neon floor lamp made by Rudi Stern circa 1970's. It features black enameled steel construction, red neon lamp, and top torchiere light.

Category

Vintage 1970s American Post-Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel

Monumental Brass and Metal Torchieres

$40,000 / set

Monumental Brass and Metal Torchieres

By Tommi Parzinger

Located in Dallas, TX

These massive and absolutely stunning Monumental Brass and Metal Torchieres are a true testament to mid-century modern elegance, expertly restored to their former glory.

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Brass

Vintage Stainless Steel Torchiere Lamp

$500

Vintage Stainless Steel Torchiere Lamp

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid-Century Modern stainless steel four bulb floor lamp featuring a sturdy tripod base. Please confirm item location (NY or NJ) with dealer.

Category

Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Stainless Steel

Modern Iron and Brass Torchiere

$575

Modern Iron and Brass Torchiere

Located in W Allenhurst, NJ

Beautiful iron and brass DECO Modern Torchiere. Unique elegant simplicity. Black iron base and frame with brass banded insert and shade. In the manner of Relco. On dimmer. Curbside t...

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Iron

Torchiere Lamp by Russel Wright

$6,800

Torchiere Lamp by Russel Wright

Located in Sagaponack, NY

An aluminum torchiere, retaining the original matte red paint, with a shallow bowl-form shade and a domed cast-iron base.

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Pair of Atelier Petitot Torchieres,

$3,950 / set

Pair of Atelier Petitot Torchieres,

By Atelier Petitot

Located in Miami, FL

Superb pair of signed Atelier Petitot sconces, from an Avignon chateau. High quality bronze Priced by pair. US rewired and in working condition Measures: Back plate: 3.5" diameter. ...

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Bronze

Pair of Barovier & Toso Torchieres

$4,900 / set

Pair of Barovier & Toso Torchieres

By Barovier&Toso

Located in Palm Springs, CA

Pair of floor lamps by Barovier and Toso, circa 1980s. Barovier & Toso is an Italian company that specializes in Venetian glass. They measure 70" high. Top glass portion is 22" diame...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Glass

Monumental Italian Porcelain Urn Torchiere Lamp Shag Shade Fruit 39"

$1,800

Monumental Italian Porcelain Urn Torchiere Lamp Shag Shade Fruit 39"

Located in Dayton, OH

A very large and impressive mid 20th century Italian porcelain table lamp featuring a ruffled topped urn / vase with branches of different fruit applied to each side, turned wood nec...

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Neoclassical Table Lamps

Materials

Porcelain

Tommi Parzinger Lamp #27 Iron Floor Torchiere

$6,400

Tommi Parzinger Lamp #27 Iron Floor Torchiere

By Tommi Parzinger

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Designed by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals in the 1950’s. A tall electrified iron torchiere with four faux candles in antiqued finish with a marvelous fountain like top fini...

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Other, Iron

2 Neoclassical Grecian Cameo Face Ceramic Torchiere Table Lamps 28"

$400 / set

2 Neoclassical Grecian Cameo Face Ceramic Torchiere Table Lamps 28"

Located in Dayton, OH

Pair of vintage off-white porcelain mantel urn table lamps with brass bases, stenciled with neoclassical motifs including the heads of a Roman / Greek soldier and noblewoman. Topped ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Neoclassical Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Heifetz Style Hand-Carved Torchiere Floor Lamp

$2,179

Heifetz Style Hand-Carved Torchiere Floor Lamp

By Heifetz

Located in Van Nuys, CA

Heifetz style Mid-Century hand-carved wood torchiere floor lamp pair with milk glass shades and brass accents.

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Walter von Nessen White Torchiere Floor Lamp

$1,800

Walter von Nessen White Torchiere Floor Lamp

By Nessen Studio

Located in New York, NY

Walter von Nessen white torchiere-style floor lamp. Made by Nessen Studio, Inc. USA, circa 1970. Enameled aluminum, plastic. Signed with cast manufacturer's mark to underside o...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Vintage Black and Gold Torchiere Floor Lamp with Calla Lily Motif

$800

Vintage Black and Gold Torchiere Floor Lamp with Calla Lily Motif

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Striking vintage torchiere floor lamp featuring a high-gloss black lacquered finish with polished brass accents and a flared shade adorned with hand-painted white calla lilies. Clear...

Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Art Deco Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Lighting Under $1,000

Antique and Vintage Lighting

Mid-Century Modern Lighting

20th Century Lighting

Metal Lighting

Lighting on Sale

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Mid Century Torchiere For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century torchiere for your home. Each mid century torchiere for sale was constructed with extraordinary care, often using metal, brass and glass. Find 243 options for an antique or vintage mid century torchiere now, or shop our selection of 2 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect mid century torchiere — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each mid century torchiere bearing Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco or Hollywood Regency hallmarks is very popular. Max Bill, Casella Lighting and Laurel Lamp Company each produced at least one beautiful mid century torchiere that is worth considering.

How Much is a Mid Century Torchiere?

The average selling price for a mid century torchiere at 1stDibs is $2,100, while they’re typically $450 on the low end and $75,000 for the highest priced.

Finding the Right Floor-lamps for You

The modern floor lamp is an evolution of torchères — tall floor candelabras that originated in France as a revolutionary development in lighting homes toward the end of the 17th century. Owing to the advent of electricity and the introduction of new materials as a part of lighting design, floor lamps have taken on new forms and configurations over the years.

In the early 1920s, Art Deco lighting artisans worked with dark woods and modern metals, introducing unique designs that still inspire the look of modern floor lamps developed by contemporary firms such as Luxxu.

Popular mid-century floor lamps include everything from the enchanting fixtures by the Italian lighting artisans at Stilnovo to the distinctly functional Grasshopper floor lamp created by Scandinavian design pioneer Greta Magnusson-Grossman to the Paracarro floor lamp by the Venetian master glass workers at Mazzega. Among the more celebrated names in mid-century lighting design are Milanese innovators Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, who, along with their eldest brother, Livio, worked for their own firm as architects and designers. While Livio departed the practice in 1952, Achille and Pier Giacomo would go on to design the Arco floor lamp, the Toio floor lamp and more for legendary lighting brands such as FLOS.

Today’s upscale interiors frequently integrate the otherworldly custom lighting solutions created by a wealth of contemporary firms and designers such as Spain’s Masquespacio, whose Wink floor lamps integrate gold as well as fabric fringes.

Visual artists and industrial designers have a penchant for floor lamps, possibly because they’re so often a clever marriage of design and the functions of lighting. A good floor lamp can change the mood of any room while adding a touch of elegance to your entire space. Find yours now on 1stDibs.

Questions About Mid Century Torchiere

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 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 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.
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.
What time is considered mid-century??
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.
Is Mondrian mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.
Is mid-century modern timeless?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.
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.

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