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Brown Saltman Armchairs

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
Brown Saltman Walnut Accent Chair
Brown Saltman Walnut Accent Chair

Brown Saltman Walnut Accent Chair

By Brown Saltman

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Brown Saltman walnut accent chair, c.1960s, USA. This armchair features a walnut slat back rest and newly upholstered leather cushioned seat. Perfe...

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

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Mid-Century Modern Boucle and Leather Armchairs by Paul Laszlo
Mid-Century Modern Boucle and Leather Armchairs by Paul Laszlo

Mid-Century Modern Boucle and Leather Armchairs by Paul Laszlo

By Brown Saltman, Paul Laszlo

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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...

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1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Armchairs

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Leather, Bouclé, Mahogany, Walnut

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Brown Saltman armchairs for sale on 1stDibs.

Brown Saltman armchairs are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original armchairs by Brown Saltman were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 1950s. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider armchairs by Warren Platner, Mel Smilow, and George Nakashima. Prices for Brown Saltman armchairs can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $18,000 and can go as high as $18,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $18,000.