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Modern Mid Century

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Vintage Danish Modern Mid-Century Modern Accent Table
Located in Seattle, WA
Vintage Danish Modern Mid-Century Modern Accent Table Dimensions. 25 1/2 W ; 17 1/2 D ; 18 1/2 H.
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern End Tables

Materials

Wood

Post-Modern Mid Century Table Vase
Located in Delray Beach, FL
Add a splash of retro elegance to your decor with this Post-Modern Mid Century Table Vase. The vase
Category

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Scholar's Objects

Materials

Pottery

Post-Modern Mid Century Table Vase
Post-Modern Mid Century Table Vase
H 10 in W 4.25 in D 4.25 in
Danish Modern Mid century Rosewood wide Wall Floor Bookcase
By Gunni Omann
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Beautiful simple Danish modern mid century rosewood wide wall floor bookcase. Has 6 adjustable
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Bookcases

Materials

Rosewood

Gore Augustsson for Ruda, Scandinavian Modern Mid-Century Clear Glass Bowl
By Ruda, Gote Augustsson
Located in New York, NY
Gore Augustsson for Ruda, Scandinavian Modern Mid-Century Clear Glass Bowl circa 1960s. Measures
Category

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Glass

Square Danish Modern Midcentury Rosewood Coffee Table by Uldum Møbelfabrik
By Uldum Møbelfabrik
Located in Belmont, MA
Square Danish modern midcentury rosewood coffee table by Uldum Møbelfabrik with UM made in Denmark
Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Scandinavian Modern Midcentury Studio Vase by Sylvia Leuchovius for Rorstrand
By Sylvia Leuchovius
Located in New York, NY
A tall Scandinavian modern Mid-Century ceramic studio vase with raised elements and finished in a
Category

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Vases

Materials

Clay

The Moderns: Mid-century American Graphic Design Hardcover 2017
Located in North Hollywood, CA
The Moderns: Mid-century American Graphic Design Hardcover – September 19, 2017 by Steven Heller
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Books

Materials

Paper

Ello Post Modern Mid century layered Glass Mirror 5 door Credenza C. 1980s
By Ello Furniture, Milo Baughman
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Ello Post Modern Mid century layered Glass Mirror 5 door Credenza or sideboard C. 1980s. Long low
Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Chrome

Russel Wright for Conant Ball Young American Modern Mid Century Dining Chair
By Russel Wright, Conant Ball
Located in Countryside, IL
Russel Wright for Conant Ball Young American modern mid century dining chair Chair measures: 16.5
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Wood

Ello Post Modern Mid century Glass Mirror brushed metal 5 door Credenza C. 1980s
By Ello Furniture, Milo Baughman
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
Ello Post Modern Mid century Glass Mirror and bushed metal 5 door Credenza or sideboard C. 1980s
Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Chrome

Geometric Shape Hand-Tufted Modern Mid-Century Pastel Beige & Black Rug
Located in Porto, PT
Geometric shape hand-tufted modern mid-century pastel beige & black rug Tapis Pastel #04 is a
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Western European Rugs

Materials

Natural Fiber

Danish Modern Mid-Century Rosewood Coffee Table
Located in Belmont, MA
Danish Coffee table made of fine rosewood by Danish furniture manufacturer. Excellent professionally restored condition. Top has been refinished and water mark removed since photos.
Category

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

Materials

Rosewood

Modern Mid-century Square Pendant , 4 light
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A Modern/Deco looking square pendant .All metal work is polished and plated in Nickel . Chain and
Category

Early 2000s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Brass

Square Danish Modern Mid-Century Rosewood Coffee Table
Located in Belmont, MA
Square Danish rosewood coffee table.
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Materials

Rosewood

Modern Mid Century Organic Curved Amphora Couch Prolonged
Located in London, GB
Collection which was inspired by the Neolithic period. A period which began 12.000 years ago. The Amphora Collection fallows shapes of an amphora. The grace and elegance of this hist...
Category

2010s European Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Materials

Brass

Large Modern Midcentury Sideboard Minimal Design
By Harry Bertoia, Paolo Piva
Located in Wiesbaden, DE
. Whether you're a fan of midcentury modern aesthetics or contemporary design, this sideboard is a timeless
Category

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Steel

Large Modern Midcentury Sideboard Minimal Design
Large Modern Midcentury Sideboard Minimal Design
H 28.35 in W 92.52 in D 20.08 in
Danish Modern Mid Century Vintage Cognac Leather Sofa
Located in Munich, Bavaria
Gorgeous vintage Danish modern leather sofa. The cognac leather has a rich stunning patina with lot
Category

Vintage 1980s Danish Modern Sofas

Materials

Leather, Beech

Swedish Modern Mid-Century Chest of Drawers of Birch
Located in Atlanta, GA
Mid Century Modern Chest of Drawers made of Birch in Sweden. Chest of dawers has an espresso finish
Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Birch

Rare Swedish Tripod Floor Lamp, Scandinavian Modern / Mid-Century Modern
By ASEA, George Nakashima, Bergboms
Located in Stockholm, SE
Rare Swedish tripod floor lamp with original shade (paper/rice paper). In the style of George Nakashima. Similar designs have been bade by ASEA and Bergboms, Sweden. The components o...
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Modern Mid Century Bar Cart, plywood and brass, Brazil
By J.D. Moveis e Decoracoes
Located in PARIS, FR
aesthetics of the Mid century period. It can accommodate bottles and a carved wooden handle allows you to
Category

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

Materials

Brass

Modern Mid Century Bar Cart, plywood and brass, Brazil
Modern Mid Century Bar Cart, plywood and brass, Brazil
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H 27.56 in W 40.95 in D 27.56 in
Vase Soholm Ceramic Danish Modern Midcentury, 60s
By Soholm Pottery
Located in Bern, CH
Beautiful and rare ceramic vase from the manufactory Soholm, Denmark 60s. Very good condition, beautiful handmade. Signed.
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Ceramic

Brazilian Modern Mid Century Exotic Wood Bench or Coffee Table
Located in Oakland, CA
Mid Century bench consisting of ten planks of exotic Brazilian hardwoods raised on a solid wood
Category

Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Benches

Materials

Rosewood

Hans Bergström, Floor Lamp, Scandinavian Modern / Midcentury Modern
By Ateljé Lyktan, Hans Bergström
Located in Stockholm, SE
Unique floor lamp by Hans Bergström for Ateljé Lyktan. Sweden, mid-1900s. One arm is adjustable
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

California Modern Mid Century Six Drawer Dresser By Stanley Young
By Glenn of California, Stanley Young
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: USA Designer: Stanley Young Manufacturer: Glenn of California Era: 1950s Materials: Walnut Measurements: 65" wide x 18" deep x 32.5" tall Condition: In excellent original co...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Materials

Walnut

Swedish Modern Mid Century Paradiset Sofa by Kerstin Horlin-Holmquist
By Kerstin Horlin Holmquist, Triva
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Sweden Designer: Kerstin Hörlin-Holmquist Manufacturer: Triva Era: 1960s Materials: Beech, wool Measurements: 71? wide Condition: In excellent original condition with...
Category

20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Wool, Beech

Gunnar Ander, umbrella stand, Scandinavian Modern / Midcentury Modern classic
By Gunnar Ander
Located in Stockholm, SE
A modern classic by Gunnar Ander (Sweden, 1908-1976) for Ystad Metall. Umbrella stand in brass and
Category

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Modern Umbrella Stands

Materials

Metal, Brass

Gunnar Nylund, stoneware vase, Rörstrand, Scandinavian Modern / Midcentury
By Gunnar Nylund, Rörstrand
Located in Stockholm, SE
Stoneware vase with beautiful hare fur glaze by Gunnar Nylund for Rörstand, Sweden mid-1900s
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases

Materials

Stoneware

Six Danish Modern Midcentury Ladder Back Dinning Chairs
Located in Vienna, Austria
Very nice set of six Danish midcentury ladder back dining chairs from 1955, with new upholstery. Overall, in very nice condition.
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Wood

Holger Johansson, chandelier, Scandinavian Modern / Midcentury, chrome & glass
By Westal, Holger Johansson
Located in Stockholm, SE
, Sweden mid1900s. A true Scandinavian / Midcentury Modern chandelier with its beautiful, timeless shape
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Chrome

Set of Four Danish Modern Midcentury Teak Armchairs
Located in Belmont, MA
Set of four armchairs with teak seat and backrest. Seat and back upholstered with stitched leather. Danish furniture manufacturer, 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Leather, Teak

Modern, Mid-Century Style, Lounge Chairs, Black Leather, Chrome, 1980s
Located in Stamford, CT
Pair of black leather tufted and chrome X-base cigar chairs.
Category

Late 20th Century Hollywood Regency Armchairs

Materials

Metal

Sven Andersen Sideboard in Teak, Scandinavian Modern, Mid-Century Modern, 1950s
By Andersens Møbelfabrik A/S
Located in Wrocław, Poland
This beautiful teak sideboard was designed by Sven Andersen and manufactured in Norway in second half of the 1950s. The piece features three doors that reveal lots of storage space a...
Category

Vintage 1950s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Brass

Pair of Danish modern Mid-Century Lounge Chairs Blonde Bentwood Arms
By Rud Thygesen
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
A nice pair of Danish mid-century lounge chairs blonde bentwood arms designed by Rud Thygesen for
Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Wool, Beech, Bentwood

Danish Modern Mid century LaGardo Tackett Vase/Pitcher in Porcelain Decanter
By Lagardo Tackett
Located in San Diego, CA
Whimsical porcelain decanter circa 1970s designed by La Gardo Tackett nice condition co chips or cracks.
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Porcelain

Scandinavian Modern Mid Century Table Lamps by Trivselbelysning in Brass, 1970s
Located in Hägersten, SE
Pair of table lamps produced in Sweden by Trivselbelysning AB. Made from Brass and aluminum. Adjustable in angle and in height. Light switch on the chords. Good vintage condition wit...
Category

Vintage 1970s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Large Modern Mid-Century Italian Canapè or Sofa attr. to Osvaldo Borsani
By Osvaldo Borsani
Located in Rome, IT
Amazing Mid-Century Italian Canapè or Sofa with wood legs and arms . Acid green new upholstery in
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Wood

Solid Oak & Parchment Square Coffee Table in Early Modern & Mid-Century Style
Located in New York, NY
Custom piece conceived from early modern and mid-century references. Solid oak construction with
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Coc...

Materials

Oak, Parchment Paper

Large Modern Mid-Century Italian Canapè or Sofa attr. to Osvaldo Borsani
By Osvaldo Borsani
Located in Rome, IT
Amazing Mid-Century Italian Canapè or Sofa with wood legs and arms . Acid green new upholstery in
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Wood

Modern Mid-Century Brass and Turquoise Tiffany Blue Glass Sconces, Wall Lights
By Stilnovo
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
design interior or a typically mid century interior. The blue color of its globes is vivid turquoise with
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and...

Materials

Brass

Mazzega, Modern Mid-Century Italian Murano Chandelier Wood and Glass Italy 1970s
By Mazzega
Located in Roma, IT
Large and elegant vintage chandelier by Italian designer Mazzega, with its famous hand blown glass globes from artistic white to amber. Three Murano glass spheres.
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Glass, Art Glass, Blown Glass, Murano Glass, Wood

vintage coat hat rack stand post modern mid century metal and wood
Located in Boise, ID
very cool artistic 1980s hat / coat rack post modern or mid century modern design great vintage
Category

Vintage 1980s Post-Modern Hat Racks and Stands

Materials

Metal

Post Modern Mid-Century Modern Red Lounge Chair by Metropolitan of San Francisco
By Knoll
Located in Basel, BS
structure. Details: Dimensions: 38"W × 32"D × 26"H Styles: Mid-Century Modern What type of item is it
Category

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Upholstery, Plywood

1960s 1970s Danish Modern Mid Century Teak Queen Bed With Excellent Storage
Located in Madison, WI
large footprint-- works in many kinds of decors--Vintage, Mid Century, MCM, Modern, Postmodern
Category

Vintage 1970s Danish Scandinavian Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Teak

Modern Midcentury Style Black Glass and Brass Sideboard or Credenza
Located in Rome, IT
Very fine handmade sideboard by a master artisan. Brass frame with handmade and hand-cut black glass , four doors with fish shaped brass handles.  
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Wood

English Modern Midcentury Credenza in Teak with Black Lacquer Accents
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: England Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1960s Materials: Teak Measurements: 59? wide x 17? deep x 29.5? tall Condition: In excellent original condition ...
Category

20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Teak

Modern Mid-Century Round Glass Dining or Center Table Attr. to Ico Parisi
By Ico Parisi
Located in Rome, IT
Striking Mid-Century round glass Dining or Center Table Attributed to Ico Parisi Elegant design
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Center Tables

Materials

Glass

Italian Modern Midcentury Modular Wall Unit in Rosewood, Wool and Brass
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Italy Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Rosewood, wool, brass Measurements: 138 wide x 18 deep x 79.5 tall Condition: In excellent origina...
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Credenzas

Materials

Brass

Modern/Midcentury American Walnut Clair Sideboard By Corinna Warm Faceted Panels
By WARM, Corinna Warm
Located in Santa Monica, CA
The Clair collection of high-end sideboards and credenzas features a three-dimensional, faceted front panel which beautifully conceals two doors and two central drawers. The use of p...
Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Sideboards

Materials

Walnut

Bergboms, Pair of Floor Lamps, G-024, Brass, Scandinavian Modern / Midcentury
By Alf Svensson & Yngve Sandström, Bergboms, Alf Svensson
Located in Stockholm, SE
just moved in to their midcentury modern house in Sweden. The shades are original and the floor lamps
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Modern Midcentury Pair of Brass and Turquoise Blue Glass Sconces, Wall Lights
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
These sconces are very elegant with their brass frame and beautiful turquoise blue Murano glass globes. They have got very unusual geometrical proportions and are very elegant. Take ...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Modern Midcentury Pair of Brass and Turquoise Blue Glass Sconces, Wall Lights
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
These sconces are very elegant with their brass frame and beautiful turquoise blue Murano glass globes. They have got very unusual geometrical proportions and are very elegant. Take ...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Modern Midcentury Pair of Felix Agostini Maison Arlus Style Bronze Wall Sconces
By Arlus
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
This spectacular and dramatic pair or brutalist bronze sconces is in the style of Maison Arlus in the manner of Felix Agostini. This pair of wall lights is in gilded bronze . It is ...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Bronze

Modern Midcentury Pair of Brass and Gold Mercurised Glass Sconces Wall Lights
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
These sconces are very elegant with their brass frame and mercurised Murano glass globes. These globes are reflecting like mirrors in a silver and gold tone when light is switched of...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Italian Modern Midcentury Pair of Brass and White Glass Sconces, Wall Lights
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
These sconces are very elegant with their brass frame and white Murano glass globes. They have got very unusual geometrical proportions and are very elegant. Take E14 bulbs. Wired fo...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass

Scandinavia Modern Blue Art Glass Vase Mid-Century Modern
Located in New York, NY
A beautiful and substantial Scandinavia Modern Mid-Century Modern blue art glass vase with a tiny
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Art Glass, Blown Glass

Mid-century Round Teak Dining Table
Located in Malibu, CA
Danish Modern Mid-Century round table which has segmented top with four panels in teak veneers
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Teak

Mid-Century Modern Mary Armchair Cotton Velvet Walnut Wood
Located in RIO TINTO, PT
With the Hollywood Golden Era lifestyle in mind, Ottiu designers conceived a modern midcentury
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Armchairs

Materials

Cotton, Wood

Pair of Aluminum Saucer Lamps Space Age Mid-Century Modern
By Lightolier
Located in Lake Worth, FL
1960s-70s Pair of Mid-Century Modern aluminum hanging saucer lamps. Good vintage condition shows
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Aluminum

Mid-Century Scandinavian Drop-Leaf Dining Table, c.1960
By Jason Møbler, Kurt Østervig
Located in London, GB
A modern mid-century design Scandinavian 'Eva' Drop-leaf dining table by Kurt Ostervig for Jason
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Drop-leaf and Pembroke Tables

Materials

Wood, Teak

Rare Textured Finish Terracotta Minimalist Mid Century Small Planter WestGermany
Located in San Diego, CA
war , made in West Germany. Danish Modern Mid century Boho Home decor.
Category

20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Terracotta

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Modern Mid Century For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the modern mid century you’re looking for. Frequently made of metal, wood and glass, every modern mid century was constructed with great care. Find 322773 options for an antique or vintage modern mid century now, or shop our selection of 9916 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer modern mid century, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A modern mid century is a generally popular piece of furniture, but those created in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Modern styles are sought with frequency. You’ll likely find more than one modern mid century that is appealing in its simplicity, but Milo Baughman, Knoll and Herman Miller produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Modern Mid Century?

A modern mid century can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $2,464, while the lowest priced sells for $1 and the highest can go for as much as $3,500,000.

A Close Look at Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

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 legendary 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.

As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Questions About Modern Mid Century
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
    The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple. 

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

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

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

    Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019

    Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
    The defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture design include simplicity, an emphasis on organic forms, clean lines and a mix of both natural and man-made materials. The mid-century modern style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is used to describe the work of furniture designers who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Both neutral tones and bold Pop art colors can typically be found in mid-century modern interiors, which usually include light-filled spaces. An integration of floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant access to the outdoors renders prominent a connection with nature, which owes in part to the ideas of celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an inspiration for mid-century furniture designers. Popular mid-century modern designers include Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and others. Find vintage mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Read More

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