American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
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.
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Creator: American of Martinsville
American of Martinsville MCM Highboy / Dresser with Diamond Pattern Front
By American of Martinsville
Located in East Freetown, MA
Classic American of Martinsville diamond pattern front highboy. Dresser has three drawers in top section with doors and two drawers on...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
Stunning Pair of American of Martinsville Walnut Brass Louvered Bachelors Chests
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Stunning pair of American of Martinsville louvered walnut bachelor’s chests. We love the stylish louvered drawer fronts and handsome brass banding along the base. These wonderful che...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Merton Gershun Bali Hi Dresser by American of Martinsville, ca. 1950’s
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in New York, NY
Chic and stylish 5 drawer dresser in bleached mahogany with decorative faux bamboo front. The chest features an architecturally inspired case, which surrounds the drawer fronts, creating a dimensional design element to the cabinet. From the sought after, and hard to find Bali Hi...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Mahogany
American of Martinsville Brutalist Spanish Night Stand End Tables, Set of 2
By American of Martinsville
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, nightstands or end tables you could hope to find. Outstanding design is exhibited throughout. The beautiful set is statement p...
Category
1970s American Spanish Colonial Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Vintage "Dania" Dresser by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Bring home a tremendous example of authentic Mid-Century Modern furniture with this stunning dresser designed by the legendary Merton Gershun for the famed American of Martinsville f...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Light Olive Lacquer Oriental Base Legs 3 Drawer Accent Dresser Bachelor Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern decorative olive lacquer brass drop pulls small three drawer dresser bachelor chest in fully restored condition.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Chest of Drawers by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville- Mid Century MCM
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Vintage Chest of Drawers by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville in Black Lacquer with Melamine tops.
This pair of chest of drawers is a stunning example of mid-century mode...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Lacquer
Merton Gershun American of Martinsville MCM Urban Suburban 5-Drawer Highboy
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Urban Suburban 5-Drawer Highboy Dresser
This dresser measures: 38 wide x 19 deep x 42 inches ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Chrome
Mid Century American Walnut Gentleman's Chest Dresser w/ Two Doors Compartment
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern American walnut two doors compartment five drawers high chest dresser cabinet.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Walnut
Rare Five-Drawer Chest by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
A beautiful example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1950. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction. Fabulous "wormhole" detail on the drawer front adds a...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Mahogany
Milo Baughman Style American of Martinsville Mid Century Blonde Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville, Milo Baughman
Located in Countryside, IL
Milo Baughman style American of Martinsville mid century blonde highboy dresser
Dresser measures: 36 wide x 20.5 deep x 44 inches high
All p...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Five Drawers High Chest Dresser with Brass Accents
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
American of Martinsville Mid-Century Modern walnut high chest dresser with block front drawers and brass accents.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Mid-century Walnut Dresser by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Fabulous vintage walnut and lacquered dresser designed by Michael L. Gershun for American of Martinsville in the United States, circa 1960s. This credenza has been constructed from the highest quality walnut wood. Features a white lacquered box...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
American Mid-Century Modern Light Walnut 5 Drawers High Chest Dresser Mint!
By Sligh Furniture, American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
American Mid-Century Modern light walnut 5 drawers high chest dresser MINT!.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
American Walnut Block Front 6 Drawers Long Dresser Credenza Restored Mint
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern gorgeous American walnut six drawer block front dresser.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Walnut
Classic Modernist Chest of Drawers or Dresser, American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
A Classic tall chest by Merton Gershun for his Dania collection manufactured by American of Martinsville. Features three drawers over three generous drawers with louver fronts. Brass...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Walnut
Restored American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest- Pair Available
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An exquisite example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction restored in cream lacquer. Fabulous, chunky solid bra...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest. Featuring a straight line design, six drawers for storage, modern legs, and a beautiful walnut fi...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood, Walnut
Rare Restored Modern Chest by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An absolutely jaw-dropping chest from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Stout hardwood case construction with brass and leather accents. Fabulous detail and craf...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Hardwood
Pair of American of Martinsville Mid-Century American Chests
By American of Martinsville
Located in Queens, NY
PAIR of Mid-Century American teak chests each having two breakfront doors with an incised decorative grid pattern and two turned brass handles. (AMERICAN OF MARTINSVILLE) (PRICED AS ...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Remarkable Chest or Buffet by American of Martinsville in Cream Lacquer
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An absolutely jaw-dropping chest/buffet from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Beautiful, stout hardwood case construction, with brass and leather accents. Fabul...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Mid-Century High Chest with Bras Inlay, circa 1960
By American of Martinsville
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An American of Martinsville Mid-Century walnut high chest with bras inlay, circa 1960.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
Stellar Restored Nakashima Style American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest - Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
These magnificent commodes are shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored and completely installation ready.
...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Mahogany
Rare Five-Drawer Mahogany Faux Bamboo Chest by American of Martinsville, 1952
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Five-drawer chest by American of Martinsville
1952
Bleached Philippine mahogany faux bamboo with five drawers.
The three bottom drawe...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Faux Bamboo, Mahogany
Dramatic Restored Nine-Drawer Chest by American of Martinsville, circa 1950
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
A beautiful example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1950. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction finished in cream lacquer. Fabulous wormhole detail on...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Mahogany
Exceptional Pair of Modern Commodes by American of Martinsville, circa 1950
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
This magnificent pair of commodes is shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored and completely installation ready.
A fabulous meticulously restored pair of cream lacquer chests...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Mahogany
American of Martinsville Bleached Mahogany Faux Bamboo Front 8-Drawer Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Queens, NY
American Mid-Century (1960s) bleached mahogany chest / dresser with 8 drawers in two parallel columns with reeded faux-bamboo fronts, resting on four square tapered legs. (AMERICAN O...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood, Mahogany
Related Items
Restored American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest- Pair Available
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An exquisite example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction restored in cream lacquer. Fabulous, chunky solid bra...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
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American of Martinsville 8 Drawer Dresser
By American of Martinsville
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American of Martinsville 8 Drawer Dresser. All original with a gray finish over the Mahogany veneer. Grain is highly figured. Draw...
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Dramatic Restored Nine-Drawer Chest by American of Martinsville, circa 1950
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A beautiful example from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1950. Stout, expertly made mahogany case construction finished in cream lacquer. Fabulous wormhole detail on...
Category
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H 31 in W 65 in D 20.75 in
George 111 Mahogany Bachelors Chest
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Pair Bachelor Chests Walnut Bedside Cabinets Drawers
Located in Potters Bar, GB
Gorgeous pair of bachelor chests of drawers in walnut
Classic Bachelors chest with single pull out at top allowing extra surface storage area
One way of tracing back to the origin of...
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Michael Taylor for Baker Far East Collection Black Lacquered Dresser Chest
By Michael Taylor, Baker Furniture Company
Located in South Bend, IN
A stunning mid-century modern Hollywood Regency chinoiserie 5-drawer dresser or chest of drawers
By Michael Taylor for Baker Furniture, "Far East" Collection
USA, 1960s
Blac...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
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Paul McCobb for Directional Black Eight Drawer Chest with Brass Leg Posts
By Paul McCobb, Directional
Located in Bainbridge, NY
Paul McCobb for Directional #7025 black Chest of Drawers. Featuring newly restored and re-enameled rectangular black enameled eight drawer Chest, Dresser, detailed with reflective Br...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Walnut Credenza by American of Martinsville with a Louvered Front
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This massive vintage modern sideboard features three louvered drawers in the middle and two large storage compartments on the sides. The rich walnut finish, sculpted brass handles, a...
Category
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Edmond Spence 6-Drawer Dresser
By Edmond J. Spence
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Mid-Century Modern 6-drawer dresser designed by Edmond Spence. Great Sculptural dresser designed by Edmund Spence and made in Sweden. 6 drawers provide ample storage. A handsome Mid...
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville Mid-Century Walnut Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Embrace the elegance of mid-century modern design with the American of Martinsville Diamond Front Highboy Dresser, a true masterpiece ...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
H 49 in W 40 in D 19 in
Elegant Night Stands by American of Martinsville with Bowed Fronts
By American of Martinsville
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Classic and elegant mid century night stands by American of Martinsville. Reminiscient of Gio Ponti style, they have tapered legs with sabots, travertine tops-made in Italy, bowed dr...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Travertine
Robsjohn Gibbings for Widdicomb Dresser Bachelors Chest
By T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, Widdicomb Furniture Co.
Located in New York, NY
Sophisticated tailored design three drawer chest designed by T. H. Robsjohn Gibbings for Widdicomb circa 1950/1960’s.
The dresser features three deep drawers, each having a dowel form pull, and a picture frame molding cabinet...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
Previously Available Items
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Accord Walnut High Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Accord Walnut High Chest. Featuring a straight line design, tw...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Accord Walnut High Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Accord Walnut High Chest. Featuring a straight line design, tw...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Chrome
'Dania' Highboy Dresser by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville, c1960s
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Discover a timeless piece of mid-century elegance with this Vintage 'Dania' Highboy Dresser, masterfully designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville in the 1960s. This ex...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
H 44 in W 38 in D 17 in
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest. Featuring a straight line design, two doors at the top that open up to hidden drawers plus storag...
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Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut High Chest. Featuring a straight line design, two doors that open up to three hidden drawers, three larger dr...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood, Walnut
American of Martinsville Ebonized Black Lacquer Dresser Chest Edmond Spence
By American of Martinsville
Located in Forest Grove, PA
A very elegant American of Martinsville wavy front dresser or chest refinished in black lacquer with original brass feet. The drawer pulls are hidde...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
H 32.75 in W 20 in D 32.75 in
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Dania Walnut Bachelor Chests
By American of Martinsville
Located in Clarksboro, NJ
This listing is for a pair of Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Dania Walnut Bachelor Chests. Featuring a straight line design with louvered front drawers, three drawers fo...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Brass
Pair Organic Modern Bachelors Chests Nightstands - Rattan + Birch - circa 1970s
By Ficks Reed, American of Martinsville, McGuire, Baker Furniture Company
Located in Decatur, GA
Pair of vintage organic modern bachelors chests/nightstands in rattan, birch and woven cane. Produced in the mid-1970s by American of Martinsville. Well-built with quality materials ...
Category
1970s American Organic Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wicker, Cane, Rattan, Birch
H 30 in W 30 in D 18 in
Mid Century Modern Lowboy Dresser with Mirror by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern lowboy dresser by American of Martinsville features hardwood construction, original walnut finish, nine dovet...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
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H 32 in W 18.5 in D 68.25 in
Mid-Century Modern Highboy Dresser by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This Mid-Century Modern highboy dresser by American of Martinsville features hardwood construction, original walnut finish, five dovetailed drawers with unique beveled drawer fronts,...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Walnut
2 Mid-Century Merton Gershun American of Martinsville Accord Dressers Chests MCM
By American of Martinsville
Located in Dayton, OH
2 Mid-Century Modern Accord Bachelor chest of drawers designed by Merton Gershun, American (1909-1989) for American of Martinsville. Made of walnut featuring inset top that opens to ...
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1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Walnut
H 44.5 in W 36 in D 18.5 in
Mid Century Modern Low Commode Chest of Drawers by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in San Jose, CA
Vintage low chest of drawers manufactured by American of Martinsville, circa 1960's. This unique piece is lacquered in an ebony black fin...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
Materials
Wood
H 19 in W 30 in D 16.5 in
American Of Martinsville commodes and chests of drawers for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville commodes and chests of drawers 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 commodes and chests of drawers, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original commodes and chests of drawers by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider commodes and chests of drawers by T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings, George Nelson, and Herman Miller. Prices for American of Martinsville commodes and chests of drawers can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $960 and can go as high as $39,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $3,500.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
- 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 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
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