Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 10

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 11

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Question 12

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Question 13

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

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

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

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

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

Question 15

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Venice Mid Century

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

Venice Midcentury Italy Art Nouveau Eight Lights Chandelier in Silvered Brass

1950s Modern Color Photography

Slim AaronsSlim Aarons 'Hotel Excelsior, Venice' Midcentury Modern Photography, 1957

Early 20th Century Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

View of Canal in Venice - Drawing - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Landscape Paintings

Double Sided Mid 20th Century Oil - Views of Venice, Unknown

Antique Mid-19th Century Paintings

Mid Century French Post-Impressionist Painting -Venice Style Landscape

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Fernand AudetVenice Back Streets Mid 20th Century French Impasto Oil Painting on Canvas, Mid 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Photography

Old days Photo - Column in San Marco Venice - Vintage Photo - mid-20th Century, mid-20th Century

Mid-20th Century Modern Abstract Paintings

Abram KrolPolish French Mid Century Modern Abstract Venice Gondola Canal Scene

Mid-20th Century Modern Figurative Paintings

French SchoolMid 20th Century Expressionist Portrait Lady in Gondola Venice Signed Painting

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Set of six glasses, 1950s, Mid-Century, Sights of Venice, Italy

Antique 1750s Italian Rococo Dining Room Chairs

Six Mid-18th Century Italian Chairs, Venice, circa 1750

Mid-19th Century Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

W.H. TurnerW.H. Turner - Framed Mid 19th Century Watercolour, Rialto Bridge, Venice, Unknown

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Barovier &Toso Blown Glass Murano Venice Italy Mid-Century Modern 1950s

1950s Expressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Kurt Craemer'Three Figures', Mid-century German Expressionist, Düsseldorf, Venice Biennale, 1954

1950s Expressionist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Kurt Craemer'Reclining Nude', Mid-century German Expressionist, Düsseldorf, Venice Biennale, 1954

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Charming flower vase, enamel painting, Venice 1950s, Mid Century design, Germany

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Louis XV Wall Mirrors

Venice Italy Mid-18th Century mirror in lacquered and gilded wood.

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Landscape Prints

Kaiko MotiVenice, 1965

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Regis Bouvier de CachardVenice, 1964

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Models and Miniatures

Italian Mid Century Lacquer/Vellum Table Screen, Canaletto Style View of Venice

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Baroque Wall Mirrors

Venice Italy Mid-18th Century Red Wooden Lacquered Mercury Glass Mirror

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Albert Ferdinand DupratPainting 20th Century Venice Marine Boats, Circa 1950

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

Very Rare & Stylish Mid-Century Lead Lined Venice Murano Pendant / Ceiling Lamp

1950s Cubist Landscape Paintings

Claude Venard"Venice Canal, Italy" Claude Venard, French Post-Cubist Mid-Century Modern, circa 1950-55

Early 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern More Lighting

Early 20th Century Venice Murano Glass Floral Ceiling Lamp

1950s Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Italian vintageMid Century Italian Impressionist Oil Venice Lagoon Sludgy Green Colors Gondolas, 1950’s

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Baroque Wall Mirrors

Venice Italy Mid-18th Century Light Green Baroque Lacquered Mercury Glass Mirror

20th Century Expressionist Landscape Paintings

Henri Clement ServeauMid 20th Century oil painting of Venice by French artist Clement Serveau

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Baroque Console Tables

Venice Italy Mid-18th Century Pair of Corner Console Lacquered Wood Red Marble

1950s Modern Landscape Paintings

Huib Van Vugt (1923-2008)Mid Century Modern Impasto Oil Painting - Venice St. Mark's Basilica at Sunset, Circa 1950

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Pair of Mid-Century Murano Glass Ceiling Lamps by VeArt, Venice, Italy, 1960s

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Baroque Wall Mirrors

Late 19th Century Micromosaic Mirror, Venice

Mid-20th Century Dutch Paintings

Mid-20th Century Venice Oil Painting in Gilt Frame Signed A. Lemstra Dated 1959

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Rococo Console Tables

Pair Italian, Venice, Carved Walnut Rococo Period Console Tables, mid 18th cen.

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Contemporary Art

Venice Cityscape by Giorgio Valenzin, Original Artwork.

Mid-19th Century Italian School Landscape Paintings

Virgilio RipariView of Venice, 1900

Antique Mid-18th Century Italian Louis XVI Sterling Silver

18th Century, Italian Venice Silver Sugar Bowl

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

RIVA GiovaniSan Giorgio - Venice, Circa 1950

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Prints

Early 20th Century Venice Print in Black and White

Mid-20th Century Realist Figurative Prints

Slim Aarons
Slim Aarons 'Hotel Excelsior, Venice' Midcentury Modern Photography, 1957

Fernand Audet
Venice Back Streets Mid 20th Century French Impasto Oil Painting on Canvas, Mid 20th Century

Abram Krol
Polish French Mid Century Modern Abstract Venice Gondola Canal Scene

French School
Mid 20th Century Expressionist Portrait Lady in Gondola Venice Signed Painting

W.H. Turner
W.H. Turner - Framed Mid 19th Century Watercolour, Rialto Bridge, Venice, Unknown

Kurt Craemer
'Three Figures', Mid-century German Expressionist, Düsseldorf, Venice Biennale, 1954

Kurt Craemer
'Reclining Nude', Mid-century German Expressionist, Düsseldorf, Venice Biennale, 1954

Kaiko Moti
Venice, 1965

Regis Bouvier de Cachard
Venice, 1964

Albert Ferdinand Duprat
Painting 20th Century Venice Marine Boats, Circa 1950

Claude Venard
"Venice Canal, Italy" Claude Venard, French Post-Cubist Mid-Century Modern, circa 1950-55

Italian vintage
Mid Century Italian Impressionist Oil Venice Lagoon Sludgy Green Colors Gondolas, 1950’s

Henri Clement Serveau
Mid 20th Century oil painting of Venice by French artist Clement Serveau

Huib Van Vugt (1923-2008)
Mid Century Modern Impasto Oil Painting - Venice St. Mark's Basilica at Sunset, Circa 1950

Virgilio Ripari
View of Venice, 1900

RIVA Giovani
San Giorgio - Venice, Circa 1950

Josef Eidenberger
Venice Sailboats, Italy, c.1975

Bruno Martini
Gondoliers in Venice

Willy Ronis
Fondamente Nuove, Venice, 1959

John Taylor Arms
Shadows of Venice, 1930

Isabelle Graham Reese
Calla Mayor, Venice Canal, ca. 1950s

Giuseppe Kier
Venice, St. Mark's square - Lithograph by Giuseppe Kier - 19th Century, 19th Century

Giuseppe Kier
Doge's Palace in Venice - Lithograph by Giuseppe Kier - 19th Century, 19th Century

James McBey
Rio della Misericordia, Venice., 1930

Antonio Reyna Manescau
"Ca' d' Oro, Venice" Late 19th Century Oil on Canvas of Venice, by Antonio Reyna, Circa 1900

André Hambourg
Saint Marks Square, Venice, Circa 1951

Marco Grubacs
Pair of 19th Century townscape oil paintings of Venice, C1880