American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
American
American of Martinsville is today revered as one of the finest manufacturers of mid-century modern furniture in the United States, but its beginnings were unexpectedly humble.
Well ahead of the Civil War, tobacco was a cash crop in places such as Virginia, and the plant was grown with frequency on farms in Martinsville and elsewhere. In the early 1900s, the business around tobacco was changing and the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company was expanding nationally, buying any Virginia factories in reach. Former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee turned away from the business in 1906 and, with merely $30,000 in capital (and the support of local business leaders), began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company.
In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings. Alongside tallboy dressers and nightstands, Witten and Keesee’s outfit began to offer a range of dining-room sets to the discerning customer. By the 1950s, the name had been changed to American of Martinsville and the brand had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as its variety of furniture styles (Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie).
Mass-marketed furniture meant big business in the postwar years and throughout the 20th century in Virginia, and factories owned by companies like Bassett Furniture and American of Martinsville remained busy as suburbanites bought furniture to fill the homes they were moving into.
It isn’t difficult to spot American of Martinsville’s sturdy, solid designs — the lacquered walnut nightstands, mahogany coffee tables and more have long earned the admiration of mid-century modernism enthusiasts. The company’s high profile also owes to prominent attributes that distinguish its well-made vintage furniture, such as the use of wooden slats — inspired by Scandinavian modernism — on hutches and cabinet doors, the famous brass x’s inlaid on the tops of tables and dressers and the stately stacked type of the American of Martinsville logo, which usually appears in drawer interiors. The stamp prominently features an eagle perched atop the lettering, its broad wings spread across the “American” portion.
Besides quality manufacturing, American of Martinsville is additionally recognized for having incorporated the trends of the day.
Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul Laszlo, the brand was also known for innovations with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company’s most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun’s most popular line was reportedly Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries.
Shop a wide selection of vintage American of Martinsville mid-century modern sideboards, side tables and more on 1stDibs.
to
2
2
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
1
1
2
2
2
1
2
1
1
1
1
2
2
2
2
2
115
308
300
254
218
Creator: American of Martinsville
1950s American of Martinsville Walnut Cane Slipper Lounge Chairs, a Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Germantown, MD
A gorgeous pair of vintage Mid-Century Modern slipper lounge chairs by American of Martinsville. They have a walnut frame with cane back and faux leather seat and are in good vintage...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Faux Leather, Cane, Walnut
American of Martinsville High Back Lounge Chair in Original Seafoam Fabric, 1960
By American of Martinsville
Located in Deland, FL
An early and rare design produced by American of Martinsville, c. 1960s. Constructed from oak with a natural finish. The stately wingback chair is found in its original seafoam blue ...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Oak
Related Items
Pair of Oversized Adrian Pearsall Lounge Chairs
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Middlesex, NJ
Pair of oversized Adrian Pearsall lounge chairs.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Walnut
Pair of Selig 'Octet' Lounge Chairs
By Selig
Located in Hanover, MA
Pair of octagonal shape lounge chairs produced in 1979 by Selig Manufacturing for their "Octet" collection of modular seating.
The Octet upholstery is constructed with tight channel...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery
Frits Henningsen High-Back Lounge Chair
By Frits Henningsen
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Frits Henningsen High-Back Lounge Chair. Nice Traditional Design. Mahogany Legs. Unmarked.
Category
1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Fabric, Mahogany
1950s Pair of Lounge Chairs in Imbuia Wood, Brazilian Mid-Century Modern
Located in Sao Paulo, SP
These two chairs have an amazing Italian style, with sexy curves contrasting with the boxy shell. Two-tone fabrics enhance the dynamics of the shell, creating a very exciting piece. ...
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Hardwood
H 30.71 in W 27.56 in D 28.35 in
Frits Henningsen High Back Lounge Chair
By Frits Henningsen
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Frits Henningsen high back lounge chair.
Category
1940s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Fabric, Mahogany
Stylish Pair of Scroll Top Lounge Chairs, 1950s
Located in New York, NY
Pair of Italian scroll top lounge chairs with brass legs newly upholstered in ivory color Holly Hunt velvet. Italy, 1950s.
Matching sofa is also ava...
Category
1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass
Pair of Koene Oberman, Mid-Century Modern, Wood High Back Lounge Chair, 1960
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
High back lounge chairs by Koene Oberman, circa 1960.
Originated in Denmark
In good original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use, preserving a beautiful pati...
Category
1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Wood
H 37.41 in W 30.32 in D 37.8 in
Handsome Pair French Country Walnut Faux Bamboo Cane Barrel Back Chairs
By Baker Furniture Company
Located in Pemberton, NJ
A wonderful pair of faux bamboo caned club chairs with a glossy light tortoise finish. The sturdy frames with cane back and sides with cushions in an ivory cream subtle pinstripe. Th...
Category
1970s American Hollywood Regency Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery, Cane, Walnut
Lounge Chair in Beech and Woven Cane
By Torbjørn Afdal
Located in Bridgeport, CT
Beautiful lounge chair in stained beech woven double sided cane in the back and sides. Probably from the late 1960's and very much in the style of in the late 1960s by Torbjorn Afdal...
Category
1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Cane, Beech
Edward J. Wormley Lounge Chair and Ottoman circa 1950s for Dunbar
By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture
Located in St. Louis, MO
Edward J. Wormley lounge chair and ottoman for Dunbar circa 1950s on solid brass castors. The lounge chair has a trapezoid shape, wider in the front (27.5" W) and tapers to the back....
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery
Danish Mid-Century Modern Oak High Back Lounge Chair in Kjærnulf Style, 1960s.
By Henning Kjærnulf
Located in Asaa, DK
Danish Mid-Century Modern Oak High Back Lounge Chair in Kjærnulf Style, 1960s.
Beautiful Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern rustic highback lounge chair in solid Nordic white oak and o...
Category
1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Oak
H 40.56 in W 32.68 in D 34.26 in
1942 Fritz Hansen High-back Lounge Chair #1672 in Original Mohair
By Fritz Hansen
Located in Oakland, CA
Early Fritz Hansen high-back lounge chair, circa 1942, model #1672, features a solid wood frame, with eight-way hand tied copper coil springs and horsehair padding covered in the ori...
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Mohair, Wood
Previously Available Items
Ochre Armchair Waterfall Skirted
By American of Martinsville
Located in Saint Petersburg, FL
Ochre upholstered skirted armchair with unique carved armrests.
Upholstery is in good condition - no rips tears or stains. Inserts are removable. Both ...
Category
19th Century American Art Deco Antique American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Velvet
Baughman Style Forest Green Velvet Flat Bar Cantilever Brass Armchair Set of 6
By Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Milo Baughman, American of Martinsville
Located in Chattanooga, TN
Yes these Hollywood Regency gems are vintage, but they’re not Milo Baughman or Mies van der Rohe BRNO chairs. They’re actually made by American of Martinsville, not Knoll. So what’s ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass
H 34.5 in W 18.5 in L 34.5 in
Baughman Style Forest Green Velvet Flat Bar Cantilever Brass Armchair Set of 2
By Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Milo Baughman, American of Martinsville
Located in Chattanooga, TN
Yes these Hollywood Regency gems are vintage, but they’re not Milo Baughman or Mies van der Rohe BRNO chairs. They’re actually made by American of Martinsville, not Knoll. So what’s ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass
H 34.5 in W 18.5 in D 23 in
Baughman Style Forest Green Velvet Flat Bar Cantilever Brass Armchair Set of 2
By Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Milo Baughman, American of Martinsville
Located in Chattanooga, TN
Yes these Hollywood Regency gems are vintage (circa 1970s or 1980s), but they’re not Milo Baughman or Mies van der Rohe BRNO chairs. They’re actually made by American of Martinsville...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass
H 76 in W 22.38 in L 76 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs American Furniture of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pasadena, TX
In 1906, American Furniture company was founded by two Martinsville tobacco men, Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee.
Pair of chairs in walnut...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
Materials
Walnut
American Of Martinsville lounge chairs for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville lounge chairs are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of American of Martinsville lounge chairs, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original lounge chairs by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the mid-20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider lounge chairs by John Wisner, Byron Botker, and Brayton International. Prices for American of Martinsville lounge chairs can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $796 and can go as high as $2,600, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,396.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Lounge Chairs
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024To identify American of Martinsville furniture, first look for the brand stamp, often found inside of a drawer, on the bottom of the piece or under a seat. The mark typically features the full brand name; some pieces also display an eagle logo. Another identifying characteristic of wood pieces made by the company are brass "X" inlays, often found on tabletops and the front of cabinet doors. Many mid-century American of Martinsville case goods also feature slatted or louvered doors. If you need help with the identification process, use the services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024How much an American of Martinsville dresser weighs can vary greatly. The dimensions and materials of the piece will determine its weight. Generally, highboy dressers will be the heaviest pieces produced by the American furniture maker due to their size. Shop a diverse assortment of American of Martinsville dressers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024The history of Martinsville furniture starts with the founding of the company in Martinsville, Virginia, in 1906 by Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee, a pair of former tobacco farmers. They launched their business with $30,000 in capital and began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company. In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings with a range of dining room sets. By the 1950s, the company’s name had been changed to American of Martinsville, and it had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as a variety of furniture styles. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul László, the brand innovated with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company's most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun's most popular line was Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries. Find a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
- What is American oak?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021American oak comes from oak trees that grow in America (as opposed to in Europe). While both are pale, American oaks have a slightly pink undertone and European oaks have a honey-hued undertone.
- What is Elgin American?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024Yes, there is an American watch movement. In fact, there are multiple movements made in the USA. One is the Ameriquartz movement, a battery-driven quartz movement manufactured by Arizona-based maker Fine Timepiece Solutions for VAER watches. Another is the Caliber 1003 mechanical wind movement, created by Weis and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Find a diverse assortment of watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025There was actually more than one famous American clockmaker. Many people refer to Eli Terry as the “father of mass-produced clocks in the U.S.,” as he introduced the concept of interchangeable parts that made large-scale production possible. Another well-known name in the history of American clock-making is Seth Thomas, who founded the Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1813. Brothers Aaron and Simon Willard are also important figures in the field, having developed banjo clocks and tall case clocks, respectively. Shop a variety of antique and vintage clocks on 1stDibs.
- What color is American walnut?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021With respect to the actual wood, the outer layer of American walnut — the sapwood — has a creamy yellow-white color whereas the inner layer — the heartwood — ranges from a golden brown to dark chocolate brown color. In more descriptive words, the color of American walnut embodies the richness of chocolate mixed with slight undertones of red wine. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage American walnut furniture.
- Is sofa American or British?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024Sofa is both American and British. In the UK, sofa is the most commonly used term for an upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two people or more. Americans use the word sofa as well. However, couch is the more popular name for sofas in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- What is African American quilting?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022African American quilting has roots in history during slavery and was a way for African American women to bond. The quilts themselves tell stories of history, teach lessons and are beacons of hope. Shop a collection of African American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The history of African-American quilting stretches back almost as far as the beginning of the United States itself. The craft began with slave women quilting on plantations and after emancipation, the tradition of quilting continued. Today, there are many African American quilters who are inspired by a number of different quilting traditions. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of African-American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is American cut glass?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021American cut glass is a technique used for decorating glass. The period from 1771 to 1876 is considered the early period of American cut glass — later, cut glass was called Brilliant glass. This technique is associated with high labor costs and involves the work of skilled craftsmen — American cut glass is considered a luxury item and can be very valuable.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.
- What do Americans call a sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024Whether Hamilton watches are American or Swiss depends on the timepiece in question. Prior to 2003, Hamilton manufactured its timepieces in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. After the company's sale to the Swatch Group, its headquarters and manufacturing facility relocated to Biel, Switzerland. Explore a variety of Hamilton watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024To identify Native American beadwork, first consider the materials. Indigenous American artisans often produce beads out of glass and natural materials, such as shells, bone and wood, and use metal and plastic in their pieces less frequently. Older pieces will usually be held together by sinew, while newer examples will typically feature thread. Regardless of age, Native American beadwork will typically be expertly crafted, so pieces usually have tight, even stitching with no visible gaps. Familiarizing yourself with stitching techniques used by various tribes can also be helpful. You can find images of authentic beadwork on trusted online resources to refer to as you complete the identification process. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your piece. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of textiles and garments that feature Native American beadwork.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To identify Native American baskets, you can research the patterns using authoritative online resources to try and determine which tribe produced it. However, many replicas exist and there are many tribes that produced baskets. As a result, it is a good idea to consult a licensed appraiser. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Native American baskets.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is real leather. The American furniture maker typically uses genuine glove leather for its upholstered pieces. Only the top 10% of hides in the world meet the company's standards. Shop a diverse assortment of American Leather furniture from some of the world's top sellers.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024Yes, American Leather is good quality. Skilled artisans make every piece that bears the American furniture maker's name with precision computer-controlled systems to maximize quality while expediting the manufacturing process to allow custom-made pieces to be produced much more quickly. American Leather also uses computer systems to scan hides, ensuring that only the finest leathers are used as upholstery on its furniture. Find a variety of American leather furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville Dining Room Chairs
American of Martinsville Benches
American of Martinsville Chairs
American of Martinsville Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets
American of Martinsville Tables
American of Martinsville Mirrors
American of Martinsville Asian Art and Furniture
American of Martinsville Night Stands
American of Martinsville Beds and Bed Frames
American of Martinsville Bedroom Sets
American of Martinsville Jewelry Boxes