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Brown Saltman Lighting

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
Expertly Restored - Paul Laszlo "Basket Weave" Table Lamp for Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman, Paul Laszlo
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Rare Californian Modern table lamp designed by Paul Laszlo for Brown Saltman in the United States circa 1950s. This spectacular lamp featu...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Lighting

Materials

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Paul Frankl Combed Fir Table Lamps, a Pair
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A scarce pair of Mid-Century Modern combed fir table lamps designed by Paul Frankl for Brown-Saltman. Very good, vintage condition with original finish. Original turned wood finials....
Category

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

Materials

Wood

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Brown Saltman lighting for sale on 1stDibs.

Brown Saltman lighting 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 Brown Saltman lighting, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original lighting by Brown Saltman were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the mid-20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider lighting by Tony Paul, Sascha Brastoff, and Gerald Thurston. Prices for Brown Saltman lighting can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,500 and can go as high as $1,895, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,698.

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