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Brown Saltman Beds and Bed Frames

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
Mid Century Modern Walnut King Headboard by John Keal for Brown Saltman
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in San Jose, CA
Mid century modern king size headboard designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman of California, circa 1960's. This piece displays gorgeous walnut grains and two adjustable padded backr...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Walnut, Fabric

Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman Full / Double Bed Frame
By Brown Saltman, Paul Frankl
Located in Fulton, CA
Full / Double bed frame designed by Paul Frankl for Brown Saltman of California. Newly upholstered headboard, but fabric can be easily changed if des...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Brown Saltman Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Fir, Fabric

Brown Saltman Mid Century Storage Headboard
By Brown Saltman
Located in Countryside, IL
Brown Saltman mid century storage headboard This headboard measures: 80 wide x 8.25 deep x 36.5 inches high All pieces of furniture ...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Wood

Brown Saltman Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Full Headboard
By Brown Saltman
Located in Countryside, IL
Brown Saltman Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Full Headboard This headboard measures: 56.5 wide x 4.25 deep x 36.25 inches high We take our photos in a controlled lighting studio to ...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Mahogany

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Brown Saltman beds and bed frames for sale on 1stDibs.

Brown Saltman beds and bed frames 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 beds and bed frames, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original beds and bed frames by Brown Saltman 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 beds and bed frames by Thomasville, Henredon, and Merton Gershun . Prices for Brown Saltman beds and bed frames can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,500 and can go as high as $2,395, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $1,948.

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