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.
John Keal for Brown Saltman Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Nightstands - Pair
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Franklin Park, IL
John Keal for Brown Saltman Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Nightstands - Pair This nightstand measures: 22 wide x 16 deep x 21.25 inches high All pieces of furniture can be had in w...
Mahogany
"Pair of Mid-Century Modern Tray Side Tables by John Keal, Hairpin Legs, 1950s"
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Tray side table with hairpin style and a pullout, manufactured by Brown Saltman, and designed By John Keal.
Wood, Hardwood
$14,000Sale Price / set|20% Off
Triangular Low Profile Chairs / Bench in Walnut by Brown Saltman, USA, C. 1950s
By John Keal, John Kapel, Brown Saltman
Located in Deland, FL
This is an ultra-rare set of 3-legged lounge chairs designed by the legendary John Keal for Brown Saltman. The chairs / modular benches feature original hardware that can be hinged t...
Fabric, Wood, Walnut
John Keal for Brown Saltman Set of Three Walnut and Burl Cocktail Tables, 1970s
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Dallas, TX
Set of three hexagonal shape side tables design by John Keal for Brown Saltman in the 1970’s. Constructed of walnut with a burl wood circle on the top. In beautiful vintage conditi...
Wood
Brown Saltman Hexagonal End Coffee Table with Sunburst Inlay
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Oiled walnut hexagonal centre side table by John Keal for Brown Saltman. High quality walnut wood in combination with high quality Mid-Century Modern craftsmanship accent table. Nat...
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Boucle and Leather Armchairs by Paul Laszlo
By Paul Laszlo, Brown Saltman
Located in North Hollywood, CA
A rare opportunity to acquire a pair of 1950s armchairs by the architect Paul Laszlo for Brown Saltman, a testament to mid-century American design at its finest. These exceptional c...
Leather, Bouclé, Mahogany, Walnut
John Keal Nesting Tables for Brown Saltman manner of Robsjohn Gibbings
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Chicago, IL
John Keal nesting tables for Brown Saltman. Manner of Robsjohn Gibbings for Widdicomb
Wood
1950s Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman Combed Dining Set Modernism, 9 Piece Set
By Brown Saltman, Paul Frankl
Located in Monrovia, CA
Vintage Paul Frankl dining room set by Brown - Saltman. 9 piece dining table one leaf six chairs with matching buffet all with honey combed design ico...
Wood
Price Upon Request
Mahogany End Tables by John Keal for Brown Saltman
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in San Francisco, CA
A beautifully restored pair of mahogany end tables by John Keal for Brown Saltman. Each features a single drawer and four tapered legs with round resin feet on patinated brass posts....
Brass