The enduring modern design legacy of Brown Saltman was born from the collaboration between designer Paul Frankl and furniture manufacturer David Saltman. Together, they created stunning mid-century modern solid wood furniture with Art Deco influences. Brown Saltman side tables, cocktail tables and credenzas are known for their thoughtful designs and exquisite details.
Frankl was a leading American designer who came to prominence in the 1930s by making rattan furniture for Hollywood stars. However, he dreamed of bringing his designs to the public. That chance came in 1939, when he met Saltman at a party. Saltman was the head of the Los Angeles-based Brown Saltman, which, at the time, specialized in furniture reproductions.
He asked Frankl to create a furniture line, which was released in 1941. It was a hit, with sales exceeding expectations. Frankl quickly started work on a new line for mass production. It featured simplified designs and less expensive materials like combed wood and textured plywood. This line was even more successful, and Frankl started on a third.
In 1942, Frankl and Saltman signed an extended contract to continue their collaboration. However, Saltman died in a traffic accident the next day. World War II also brought Brown Saltman production to a standstill. After the war ended, Frankl decided not to renew his contract.
Brown Saltman partnered with many other designers over the years. A walnut sideboard by Van Keppel-Green for Brown Saltman was featured in the Museum of Modern Art’s 1950-51 Good Design exhibition. Architect and interior designer Paul Laszlo also designed a commercial furniture line for the company in the 1950s.
Brown Saltman dissolved in 1960, but its well-built and beautifully designed furniture remains in high demand today.
On 1stDibs, find vintage Brown Saltman tables, storage cabinets, seating and more.
| Average Sold Price |
| $3,337 |
| Styles |
| Materials |
| Related Creators |
Californian Modern Coffee Table w/ Bookshelf & Drink Tray by John Keal
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Materials: Walnut-Stained Mahogany, Original Frosted Glass, Original Metal & Plastic Tray ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furn...
Metal
$1,250
H 49.5 in W 32.5 in D 2.75 in
Expertly Restored - John Keal Wall-Hanging Sculpted Mirror for Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Los Angeles, CA
John Keal wall-hanging sculpted mirror for Brown Saltman. Materials: Walnut-Stained Mahogany Wood, New Mirror ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-...
Mirror, Mahogany, Wood
$3,500
H 15.25 in W 92.25 in D 24.25 in
Mid-Century Expanding Coffee Table by John Keal for Brown Saltman
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Raleigh, NC
Mid-century expanding coffee table. Designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman, circa 1960s. Made from warm walnut wood with great woodgrain throughout the top and base. Fantastic arch...
Formica, Wood, Walnut
$5,500
H 30 in W 96.5 in D 21.5 in
Californian Modern Modular Dresser by Martin Borenstein for Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman, Martin Borenstein
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Materials: Walnut Wood, Original White Formica Top ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life...
Formica, Wood, Walnut
$3,500 / set
H 22 in W 20.75 in D 17.5 in
Expertly Restored - Californian Modern Night Stands by Martin Borenstein
By Martin Borenstein, Brown Saltman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Materials: Walnut Wood, Original White Formica Top ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to lif...
Formica, Walnut, Wood
Paul Laszlo, Dresser, Oak, USA, 1950s
By Brown Saltman, Paul Laszlo
Located in High Point, NC
An oak dresser designed designed by Paul Laszlo and produced by Brown Saltman, USA, 1950s.
Oak
Paul Laszlo, Coffee Table, Wood, United States, 1950s
By Paul Laszlo, Brown Saltman
Located in High Point, NC
A wooden coffee table designed by Paul Laszlo and produced by Brown Saltman, America, 1950s.
Wood
$2,895 / set
H 21.25 in W 22 in D 16 in
Expertly Restored - Californian Modern Night Stands w/ Bookcase by John Keal
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Materials: Walnut-Stained Mahogany Wood, Brass Accents ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to...
Brass
| Sold Date | Sold Price | Category | Material | Creation Year | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $3,337 |
Average sold price of items in the past 12 months |
| $1,305-$5,780 |
| Sold price range of items in the past 12 months |