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

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 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 Triptych

2010s Asian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Mid-Japandi Walnut & Glass Triptych Cabinet

Vintage 1960s Belgian Mid-Century Modern Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Mid-Century Modern Glass Folding Triptych Fire Screen by Jemeppe

Antique Mid-19th Century French Empire More Objets d'Art and Vertu

An Exceptional French Mid-19th Century Triptych Bronze Empire Mantel Clock

2010s Modern Abstract Paintings

Ryan RivadeneyraPink Lagoon Sands, Mid-Century Shapes Triptych, Abstract Gold Transparencies , 2023

Mid-20th Century British Scandinavian Modern Dressers

Beithcraft Mid-Century Modern Teak Triptych Mirror Dressing Table or Desk, 1960

Mid-20th Century Post-War Abstract Paintings

MORRIS, CARLUntitled (Triptych), 1977

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Contemporary Art

Movement Triptych

2010s Modern Abstract Sculptures

Gudrun PagterInto Blue, Red & Black, Mid-Century Modern Textile Triptych by Gudrun Pagter, 2021

2010s New Zealand Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

3 Door Mid-Century Inspired Weave Credenza with Modern Triptych Woven Art Doors

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

Henry DiltzNeil Young Triptych

Mid-19th Century Academic Prints and Multiples

Rudolph GoetheTriptych of Pears., 1849

Mid-19th Century Academic Prints and Multiples

Rudolph GoetheTriptych of Pears, 1849

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Portrait Photography

Henry DiltzPaul McCartney Triptych, 1977

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Portrait Photography

Henry DiltzJimi Hendrix Triptych, 1967, 1967

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

Henry DiltzJim Morrison Triptych, 1968, 1968

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Portrait Photography

Herb GreeneBob Weir & Phil Lesh Triptych

20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Triptych Sea Blue Oil Paintings

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Lamps VeArt Design Italian 1970 Triptych

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

David MangusThe Beatles, Triptych, Abbey Road Studios, 1967

Mid-20th Century American Posters

Roy Lichtenstein Triptych As I Opened Fire Vintage Pop Art Poster Framed

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Triptych of Brass Lamps with Thatched Dome

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

20th Century Lidia Selva Le Maschere D'oro Triptych for Luciano Frigerio, 70s

Antique Mid-19th Century French Victorian Floor Mirrors and Full-Length ...

French Victorian Faux Bamboo Triptych Cheval Mirror Trifold

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Black and White Photography

David MangusPaul McCartney, Triptych, Abbey Road Studios, London, 1967

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Unique and big triptych Mirror / reverse glass painting

Antique Mid-19th Century Japanese Japonisme Prints

Utagawa Kunisada woodblock Flowers (Hana) Triptych, c. 1847-52

2010s Pop Art Still-life Paintings

Charles BuckleyAirplane, yellow triptych, pop art style, 2012

Vintage 1940s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vanities

1940s Danish Ebonised Vanity Dressing Table With Triptych Mirror

Vintage 1940s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Vanities

1940S Scandinavian Vanity Dressing Table With Its Triptych Mirror

Antique Mid-19th Century Belgian Gothic Revival Figurative Sculptures

Flemish 1850 Carved Sculpture Triptych of Emperor Charlemagne Enthroned

Mid-20th Century Contemporary Color Photography

Jay BlakesbergNeil Young, Triptych, Shoreline Amphitheater, Mountain View, CA, 2011

20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Vintage Boho Textured Abstract Triptych Original Oil On Canvas Set Of Three

Mid-20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Peter SwordPeter Sword Vintage Abstract Triptych Oil Paintings C.1970s, Circa 1970

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

Triptych Nesting Tables 1960 Italian Design Lacquered Metal Chrome

Vintage 1930s French Mid-Century Modern Photography

Triptych of Original 1930s Prisoner Photos Framed with Modern Elegance

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Triptych Color Field Painting by Henry Kallem, circa 1960s

Antique Mid-19th Century Wall Mirrors

Antique American Empire First Finish Giltwood Triptych Wall Mirror, circa 1850

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Vanities

Mid-Century Walnut Dressing Table from Butilux, 1960s

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Triptych of vintage Italian coffee tables in thick glass and brass

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Vanities

Ryan Rivadeneyra
Pink Lagoon Sands, Mid-Century Shapes Triptych, Abstract Gold Transparencies , 2023

MORRIS, CARL
Untitled (Triptych), 1977

Gudrun Pagter
Into Blue, Red & Black, Mid-Century Modern Textile Triptych by Gudrun Pagter, 2021

Henry Diltz
Neil Young Triptych

Rudolph Goethe
Triptych of Pears., 1849

Rudolph Goethe
Triptych of Pears, 1849

Henry Diltz
Paul McCartney Triptych, 1977

Henry Diltz
Jimi Hendrix Triptych, 1967, 1967

Henry Diltz
Jim Morrison Triptych, 1968, 1968

Herb Greene
Bob Weir & Phil Lesh Triptych

David Mangus
The Beatles, Triptych, Abbey Road Studios, 1967

David Mangus
Paul McCartney, Triptych, Abbey Road Studios, London, 1967

Charles Buckley
Airplane, yellow triptych, pop art style, 2012

Jay Blakesberg
Neil Young, Triptych, Shoreline Amphitheater, Mountain View, CA, 2011

Peter Sword
Peter Sword Vintage Abstract Triptych Oil Paintings C.1970s, Circa 1970

David Sokosh
Pause that Refreshes (Vintage Tin Type Triptych with Coca Cola), 2012

James Stroudley
A Triptych: The Olympic Games, Modern British Drawing, Ancient Greek, Nude

Yayoi Kusama
With all My Flowering Heart Skateboard Triptych, 3 Limited Edition Skate Decks , 2014

David Sokosh
Hermes with Goggles On (Tin Type Triptych of Statue, Vintage Victorian Frame), 2012

Tsukioka Yoshitoshi
Tsukioka Yoshitoshi (1839-1892) -1866 Japanese Woodblock, Battle Of Kawanakajima, 1866

Utagawa Kunisada
Kabuki Scene- Woodcut Print by Utagawa Kunisada - 1850s, 1850s

Utagawa Yoshitora
Foreign Soldiers from Five Countries at the Port of Yokohama

Ben-Zion Weinman
Ben ZIon Expressionist Judaica Rabbi Watercolor Painting Jewish Modernist WPA, c.1950's