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Brown Saltman Furniture

American

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.

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Creator: Brown Saltman
Dealer: Midcent LA
Mid Century Modern Walnut Tallboy Dresser By John Keal for Brown Saltman, c1960s
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Introducing a distinguished piece of mid-century modern artistry, this vintage tallboy dresser by John Keal for Brown Saltman defines the iconi...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Furniture

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Modern Serving Bar Cart with Hot Plate by Brown Saltman, c1960s
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Chino Hills, CA
We are delighted to offer for sale this stunning, authentic mid-century modern serving cart, designed by the esteemed John Keal for Brown Saltman in the 1960s. A perfect blend of fun...
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1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Furniture

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Metal, Brass

Vintage Mid-Century Modern Mahogony Chairs by Brown Saltman
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Chino Hills, CA
A classic American design; John Keal for Brown Saltman dining chairs x4. They feature a beautiful glossed solid mahogany finish with...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Brown Saltman Furniture

Materials

Mahogany

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Brown Saltman furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Brown Saltman furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original furniture by Brown Saltman were created in the Art Deco style in united states during the 18th century and earlier. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Calvin, John Keal, and Richard Schultz. Prices for Brown Saltman furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $950 and can go as high as $950, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $950.

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