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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
Modern Chest by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Renzo Rutili
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Stunning timeless design by American of Martinsville. Hardwood case accented with brass trim and hardware with leather inserts. Solid construction and very heavy. Wear is mainly on t...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Brass

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

Merton Gershun American of Martinsville MCM Urban Suburban 5-Drawer Highboy
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Franklin Park, 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 Walnut Dresser by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
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 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

Merton Gershun Bali Hi Dresser by American of Martinsville, ca. 1950’s
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
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

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 ...
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern 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

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

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

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

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

Milo Baughman Style American of Martinsville Mid Century Blonde Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville, Milo Baughman
Located in Franklin Park, 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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Modern Dresser by American of Martinsville
By Renzo Rutili, American of Martinsville
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Stunning timeless design by American of Martinsville after Renzo Rutili. Long 11 drawer dresser with ample storage. Hardwood case accented with brass trim and hardware with leather i...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Brass

American Mid-Century Modern Light Walnut 5 Drawers High Chest Dresser Mint!
By American of Martinsville, Sligh Furniture
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

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

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

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

Pair of 1960s Black and White American of Martinsville Dressers
By American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
Black with white top. 12 knobs on each dresser. Each have 3 drawers and each drawer is 7" deep. Knobs are round white balls with brass hardware.
Category

1960s American Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Wood

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

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Restored American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest- Pair Available
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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...
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Dramatic Restored Nine-Drawer Chest by American of Martinsville, circa 1950
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Paul McCobb Gentleman's Tall Chest Irwin Collection for Calvin Furniture, 1956
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Pr. Mid Century American Martinsville Dania Bachelors Chests by Merton Gershun
Located in New York, NY
Chic pair of architectural mid century bachelors chests designed by Merton Gershun, for American Martinsville, as part of the iconic Dania series, circa 1950/60's. The dressers featu...
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Mid-20th Century American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Vintage Mid-Century American of Martinsville walnut Credenza
By American of Martinsville
Located in Sheffield, MA
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville 2 drawer, 3 door credenza in warm walnut wood cabinet. Original vintage condition. A great entry way ...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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American of Martinsville 9 Drawer Walnut Dresser Merton Gershun X-Design
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Forest Grove, PA
An American of Martinsville walnut nine drawer dresser. This line is attributed to Merton Gershun and is distinguished by the bold relief "X" or "Criss Cross" pattern to the front of...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

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Merton Gershun Dillingham Esprit Walnut Six Drawer Lowboy Dresser Mild Century
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Forest Grove, PA
This stunning Dillingham Esprit dresser was designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville. The dresser features six spacious drawer...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Laminate, Walnut

Mid-Century White Diamond Front 8-Drawer Gentleman's Chest Dresser By United
By United Furniture Corporation
Located in Southampton, NJ
A stunning mid-century modern 8-drawer gentleman’s chest having sculptural convex diamond front top drawers with brass pulls and 2 flat wide bottom drawers raised on a base with four...
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Brass

Merton Gershun Mid Century Walnut Bar for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A rare Mid Century walnut dry bar with pull down front door with light up drink area and storage for glasses . When down the door has a white laminate backing making a bar surface fo...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Brass

Walnut Sideboard with Cane Doors by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Dorchester, MA
From the Accord collection by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville, this mid-century modern sideboard features a walnut case on a plinth base with signature inset aluminum Xs ...
Category

1960s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Aluminum

Mid-Century Drexel Dresser Gentleman’s Chest Meridian Collection
By Drexel
Located in Baltimore, MD
Stunning MidCentury dresser / gentleman's chest designed by James Bouffard for Drexel circa 1960's from the Meridian collection features a top drawer with divider. Makers Label on th...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Metal

Vintage Walnut Dresser by Merton L. Gershun American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in North Hollywood, CA
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Brass

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

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Chrome

Chest of Drawers by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville- Mid Century MCM
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
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Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Lacquer

'Dania' Highboy Dresser by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville, c1960s
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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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 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

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...
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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 Baker Furniture Company, American of Martinsville, Ficks Reed, McGuire
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 ...
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1970s American Organic Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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Mid Century Modern Lowboy Dresser with Mirror by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers

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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

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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

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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.
Questions About American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024
    To 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, 2024
    How 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, 2021
    American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024
    The 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    Elgin 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 ExpertAugust 17, 2021
    American 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 ExpertMarch 25, 2024
    What 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, 2021
    A 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 ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    Yes, 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, 2025
    There 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    With 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
    Sofa 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    African 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, 2022
    The 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021
    American 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 ExpertNovember 13, 2024
    To identify early American furniture, you can evaluate your piece on your own or seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Although many pieces from the Colonial era are unmarked, double-checking your furniture for signatures, stamps and labels is still a good first step. Using trusted online resources, you can research any markings to determine if the maker was active in America during the 16th and early 17th centuries. When identifying unmarked furniture, it's generally necessary to consider the style and details of the piece. Due to its handcrafted origins, early American furniture tends to have visible tool marks and irregularities in its carvings. Early American furnishings tended to be simple in style but often had one or two refined details, such as cabriole legs. Looking at images of authentic early American furniture can be helpful when making an identification. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 18th-century American furniture.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    There are a wide array of different dolls made by the various tribes of Native American peoples. Some of the most well-known are the kachinas made by the Navajo, Hopi and Pueblo peoples. Shop an array of Native American dolls on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    What Native Americans used to produce baskets varied from tribe to tribe. Generally, craftsmen used whatever materials were readily available. In the Northeast, sweet grass was a common material, while pine needles and wicker are frequently found in baskets produced by tribes in the Southeast. Find a range of vintage and antique baskets on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    In the Native American language of Powhatan spoken by the Algonquian indigenous people, moccasin refers to a hand-sewn suede bootie. Today, people may call any shoes that feature stitched round toes by the name. Shop a variety of moccasins on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertNovember 22, 2024
    The oldest American watch brand that is still in operation is Waltham. When he founded the company in 1850, Aaron Lufkin Dennison revolutionized the industry by introducing the concept of replaceable watch components. This innovation allowed wristwatches and pocket watches to be produced in a fraction of the time it traditionally took to handcraft a watch with unique components. Find a selection of Waltham watches on 1stDibs.
  • 1stDibs ExpertDecember 17, 2024
    Whether 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.

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