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Brown Saltman Benches

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
John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman
John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman

John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman

By John Keal, Brown Saltman

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Low profile bench by John Keal for Brown Saltman, circa 1950s, USA. The bench features mahogany wood slats and tapered dowel legs. Perfect as a low profile coffee table, entryway ben...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Benches

Materials

Mahogany

Triangular Low Profile Chairs / Bench in Walnut by Brown Saltman, USA, C. 1950s
Triangular Low Profile Chairs / Bench in Walnut by Brown Saltman, USA, C. 1950s

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...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Benches

Materials

Fabric, Wood, Walnut

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John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman circa 1955
John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman circa 1955

John Keal Slatted Bench for Brown Saltman circa 1955

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John Keal Slatted low bench for Brown Saltman, circa 1955.

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John Keal for Brown Saltman Mid Century Expandable Bench

John Keal for Brown Saltman Mid Century Expandable Bench

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Located in Franklin Park, IL

John Keal for brown Saltman mid century expandable bench This bench is 55.5 wide x 18 deep x 12 inches high, the extended bench is 94.25 ...

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1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Benches

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Brown Saltman benches for sale on 1stDibs.

Brown Saltman benches are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original benches 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 benches by Gerald McCabe, Charles and Ray Eames, and Fredericia. Prices for Brown Saltman benches can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,740 and can go as high as $17,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,895.

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