Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

American, 1907-1995

As the longtime director of design for the Dunbar furniture company, Edward Wormley was, along with such peers as George Nelson at Herman Miller Inc., and Florence Knoll of Knoll Inc., one of the leading forces in bringing modern design into American homes in the mid-20th century. Not an axiomatic modernist, Wormley deeply appreciated traditional design, and consequently his vintage seating, storage cabinets, bar carts and other work has an understated warmth and a timeless quality that sets it apart from other furnishings of the era.

Wormley was born in rural Illinois and as a teenager took correspondence courses from the New York School of Interior Design. He later attended the Art Institute of Chicago but ran out of money for tuition before he could graduate. Marshall Field hired Wormley in 1930 to design a line of reproduction 18th-century English furniture; the following year he was hired by the Indiana-based Dunbar, where he quickly distinguished himself. It was a good match.

Dunbar was an unusual firm: it did not use automated production systems; its pieces were mostly hand-constructed. For his part, Wormley did not use metal as a major component of furniture; he liked craft elements such as caned seatbacks, tambour drawers, or the woven-wood cabinet fronts seen on his Model 5666 sideboard of 1956. He designed two lines for Dunbar each year — one traditional, one modern — until 1944, by which time the contemporary pieces had become the clear best sellers.

Many of Wormley’s signature pieces — chairs, sofas, tables and more — are modern interpretations of traditional forms. His 1946 Riemerschmid Chair — an example is in the collection of the Museum of Modern Art — recapitulates a late 19th-century German design. The long, slender finials of his Model 5580 dining chairs are based on those of Louis XVI chairs; his Listen-to-Me Chaise (1948) has a gentle Rococo curve; the “Precedent” line that Wormley designed for Drexel Furniture in 1947 is a simplified, pared-down take on muscular Georgian furniture. But he could invent new forms, as his Magazine table of 1953, with its bent wood pockets, and his tiered Magazine Tree (1947), both show. And Wormley kept his eye on design currents, creating a series of tables with tops that incorporate tiles and roundels by the great modern ceramicists Otto and Gertrud Natzler.

As the vintage items on 1stDibs demonstrate, Edward Wormley conceived of a subdued sort of modernism, designing furniture that fits into any decorating scheme and does not shout for attention.

Creator: Edward Wormley

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Model 5911 Gentleman’s Chests Original Finish

$8,750 / set

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Model 5911 Gentleman’s Chests Original Finish

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Don't miss these they don't come around often!! This elegant matching pair of Gentleman’s chests was designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, model 5911. A classic example of Wormley’s...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Pair Restored Edward Wormley for Dunbar Walnut & Leather 8-Drawer Cabinets

$12,000 / set

Pair Restored Edward Wormley for Dunbar Walnut & Leather 8-Drawer Cabinets

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Philadelphia, PA

This pair of dressers was designed by decorated design icon Edward Wormly for equally revered manufacturer Dunbar Furniture. Known for hundreds of successful designs and exceptional ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Leather, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Set of Three Louver Drawer Dressers

$12,000

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Set of Three Louver Drawer Dressers

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Chicago, IL

Edward Wormley for Dunbar, Set of Three Louvered Dressers in Mahogany Set of three dressers in warm mahogany, each featuring six louvered drawers with...

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1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Mahogany, Brass, USA, 1950s

$9,800

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Mahogany, Brass, USA, 1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in High Point, NC

A mahogany and brass cabinet designed by Edward Wormley and produced by Dunbar, Berne, Indiana, USA, c. 1950s.

Category

1950s American Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Walnut and Rosewood Dresser Chest of Drawers 1950s

$4,540

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Walnut and Rosewood Dresser Chest of Drawers 1950s

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Troy, MI

A rare chest of drawers designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar circa 1950s Contrasting mahogany case in dark espresso finish and walnut drawer fronts Finished with rosewood and brass...

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1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

A Pair Of Small Dressers By Edward Wormley For Dunbar Ca' 1940's

$3,500

A Pair Of Small Dressers By Edward Wormley For Dunbar Ca' 1940's

By Edward Wormley

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

A pair of classic, small three drawer dressers by Edward Wormley for Dunbar ca' 1940's. Bleached mahogany, restored in a medium/dark finish. Leather wrapped bases. These have many us...

Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

1950's MCM Edward Wormley for Dunbar Large Executive Desk - Walnut & Rosewood

$6,370

1950's MCM Edward Wormley for Dunbar Large Executive Desk - Walnut & Rosewood

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in St. Louis, MO

Make a statement with this large Mid-Century Modern original finish executive desk designed by Edward Wormley in the 1950s for Dunbar Furniture Co. The desk is extremely well built, ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley Dunbar Walnut Showcase Curio Display Cabinet Bookcase

$4,900Sale Price|30% Off

Edward Wormley Dunbar Walnut Showcase Curio Display Cabinet Bookcase

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Dayton, OH

This impressive showcase / room divider was a Custom order designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Features a rectangular walnut case raised over large silver tapered metal legs The c...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Glass, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cain Front Mahogany Sideboard on a Plinth Base

$7,800

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cain Front Mahogany Sideboard on a Plinth Base

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Chicago, IL

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cain front mahogany sideboard on a Plinth Base, Features: Two drawers and one double drawer with removable dividers, Four sliding doors with 3 storage compa...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$2,975Sale Price|50% Off

1950s Mid-Century Modern Walnut Executive Desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Lafayette, IN

Grand style and grand scale combine in this wonderful executive desk by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Desk features walnut construction, brass and mahogany pulls, and the renowned Dunba...

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1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley Japanese Print Block Cabinet

$5,900

Edward Wormley Japanese Print Block Cabinet

By Edward Wormley

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A wonderful example from Mr. Wormley's most prolific period. A walnut case surrounds 4 doors highlighted with Antique Japanese Printers Blocks. Hand ca...

Category

1950s North American Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Rosewood Chests, 1960s

$4,995 / set

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Rosewood Chests, 1960s

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional pair of Mid-Century Modern three-drawer file cabinets or chests of drawers By Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture USA, Circa 1960s Gorgeous walnut, with carved rose...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Drexel Precedent Collection Ebonized 32", 38" or 48" Chests

$2,850

Edward Wormley for Drexel Precedent Collection Ebonized 32", 38" or 48" Chests

By Edward Wormley, Drexel

Located in St. Louis, MO

Singles of Edward Wormley for Drexel chests from the Precedent Collection with brass tone hardware, circa 1947. Size shown in photos is 32" W , also have 38"w and 48" W available ...

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1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward J. Wormley Model 5272A Dresser with Brass Taper Legs for Dunbar

$12,500

Edward J. Wormley Model 5272A Dresser with Brass Taper Legs for Dunbar

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Beautiful dresser designed by Edward J. Wormley for Dunbar in the United States circa 1950’s. Featuring twelve spacious drawers that gradually increase in depth. This walnut-stained mahogany wood dresser features laminated bentwood pulls along the sides of the drawers that match the raised lip...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Rosewood Credenza

$7,500 / set

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Rosewood Credenza

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern three-piece executive credenza, which includes one eight-drawer cabinet and two three-drawer cabinets with large file drawers. By Edward Wormley fo...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood, Walnut

Basket Weave Credenza by Edward Wormley in Mahogany, C. 1960s

$18,000

Basket Weave Credenza by Edward Wormley in Mahogany, C. 1960s

By Edward Wormley

Located in Westport, CT

Very rare four-door mahogany credenza by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, featuring striking brass basket weave front panels. The center doors open to reveal a spacious shelf, while the si...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Six-Drawer Dresser

$3,500

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Six-Drawer Dresser

By Edward Wormley

Located in Ferndale, MI

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Six Drawer Dresser . Nicely configured shallow to deep graduated drawers . Each drawer front angled over the next .

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut, Wood

Janus Cabinet, Model 5727N with Rosewood Inlays by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$9,600

Janus Cabinet, Model 5727N with Rosewood Inlays by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in New York, NY

Chest of drawers designed by Edward Wormley for his Janus Collection for Dunbar Furniture. Made of walnut and expertly crafted. Beautiful joinery details on the corners of the cabine...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Wormley Designed Precedent Credenza by Drexel

$1,920Sale Price|20% Off

Wormley Designed Precedent Credenza by Drexel

By Edward Wormley, Drexel

Located in New York, NY

Impressive credenza, sideboard, server, designed by Edward Wormley, made by Drexel as part of the classic Precedent line. The cabinet features center bank of five drawers, flanked by...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Metal

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Louvered Six Drawer Dressers

$11,500 / set

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Louvered Six Drawer Dressers

By Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

A pair of louvered front six drawer dressers designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar.

Category

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Credenza

$7,500

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Credenza

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Denton, TX

Classic Edward Wormley for Dunbar mahogany credenza with solid brass hardware. Nine drawers with center cabinet.

Category

20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut & Rosewood Chest Of Drawers

$2,995

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Walnut & Rosewood Chest Of Drawers

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern eight-drawer chest of drawers By Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture USA, Circa 1960s Gorgeous walnut, with carved rosewood recessed drawer pulls...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Rosewood, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Mahogany Sideboard Credenza

$5,995

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid-Century Modern Mahogany Sideboard Credenza

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern sideboard, credenza, or bar cabinet By Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture USA, 1950s Gorgeous mahogany, with sliding doors. Measures: 81.5"W x ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley Dunbar Bar Cabinet

$18,500

Edward Wormley Dunbar Bar Cabinet

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Lynn, MA

Remarkably rare bar cabinet by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Solid walnut legs and trims. Black lacquered composite top, sides and doors. The magnetic spring closure doors feature cruci...

Category

20th Century North American Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Composition

Rare Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Dunbar Walnut Corner Bookcase Console 38"

$3,500Sale Price|30% Off

Rare Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Dunbar Walnut Corner Bookcase Console 38"

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Dayton, OH

Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture corner bookcase record console. Made of walnut featuring modular cubist "L" shape form with five tapered metal legs.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Metal

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Black Lacquered Sideboard or Bar Cabinet, Refinished

$4,080

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Black Lacquered Sideboard or Bar Cabinet, Refinished

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in South Bend, IN

An exceptional Mid-Century Modern sideboard, credenza, or bar cabinet By Edward Wormley for Dunbar USA, 1950s Mahogany in black lacquered finish. Cabinet locks and key is in...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Lacquer

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Bookcases With Floating Drawers- a Pair

$8,900 / set

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Bookcases With Floating Drawers- a Pair

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

An Edward Wormley designed bookcase for Dunbar. Both shelves have a floating drawer that hangs from below. Beautiful walnut case with a base wrapped in the original leather which sho...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Pair of Chests by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$12,000 / set

Pair of Chests by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

A pair of beautifully restored walnut and mahogany dressers with brass hardware. Designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar.

Category

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cabinet with Brass Hardware, 1950s

$12,000

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cabinet with Brass Hardware, 1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Dallas, TX

Beautiful sideboard cabinet designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, made of sandalwood with solid brass hardware. Cabinet has drawers on each side, center Lucite pull out shelf and on...

Category

Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley Dunbar Custom Credenza Rosewood Curved Front

$7,500

Edward Wormley Dunbar Custom Credenza Rosewood Curved Front

By Edward Wormley

Located in St.Petersburg, FL

A rare credenza designed by Edward Wormley and custom made by Dunbar for Mellin Furniture Galleries, Warren, Michigan, circa 1969. Curved front rosewood doors, walnut case with plast...

Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Sideboard

$12,000

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Sideboard

By Edward Wormley

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Exqusite 1950s credenza or sideboard by Dunbar. One of the very best mid century American sideboards we’ve ever seen. Designed by Edward Wormley. This is model 5668A. Features 4 s...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Pair of Edward Wormley Rosewood and Walnut Chests

$16,500 / set

Pair of Edward Wormley Rosewood and Walnut Chests

By Edward Wormley

Located in Queens, NY

Pair of American mid-century 7-drawer chest with graduated drawer sizing, thin plywood drawer pulls on the sides of each drawer front, all in rosewood and walnut veneer, resting on f...

Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Wood, Walnut

Rare Mid Century Modern Walnut Dresser by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, c1950s

$22,250

Rare Mid Century Modern Walnut Dresser by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, c1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Chino Hills, CA

Behold an exceptional treasure of design history, a vintage mid-century modern walnut dresser crafted by the iconic Edward Wormley for Dunbar, circa 1950s. This exquisite piece is an...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Metal

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Walnut, USA, 1950s

$12,900

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Walnut, USA, 1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in High Point, NC

A sizeable walnut wardrobe or cabinet designed by Edward Wormley and produced by Dunbar, Berne, Indiana, USA, c. 1950s. Interior has glass shelving and backside has round air grids ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Restored Bachelor Chest by Edward Wormley, 1940's

$6,520

Restored Bachelor Chest by Edward Wormley, 1940's

By Drexel, Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

Wonderful bachelor's chest by Edward Wormley for his "Precendent" Collection designed for Drexel in 1947. One of the few collections Wormley produced outside of his work with Dunbar. The stately collection comprised over 100 pieces for each room of the home, featuring proprietary curled bar...

Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Basketweave Rosewood and Mahogany Credenza

$9,095 / item

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Basketweave Rosewood and Mahogany Credenza

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Basketweave Rosewood and Mahogany Credenza This credenza measures: 80 wide x 18 deep x 32.75 inches high Good Vintage Condition - Piece has Sc...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Rosewood

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Mahogany, USA, 1950s

$7,900

Edward Wormley, Cabinet, Mahogany, USA, 1950s

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in High Point, NC

A bleached mahogany cabinet designed by Edward Wormley and produced by Dunbar, Berne, Indiana, USA, c. 1950s.

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Set of Three Dunbar Stepped Bookcases by Edward Wormley

$9,800 / set

Set of Three Dunbar Stepped Bookcases by Edward Wormley

By Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

A set of three mahogany stepped bookcases with built in drawers. Designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. Each cabinet measures 30" w x 11"d x 41"h.

Category

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Matching Dresser Set in Mahogany Wood

$15,225 / set

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar Matching Dresser Set in Mahogany Wood

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Chicago, IL

Pair of Edward Wormley for Dunbar matching dresser set in mahogany wood, model 5272 triple dresser 12-drawer storage with matching smaller companion four dr...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart Edward Wormley for Dunbar C1953

$3,836Sale Price|38% Off

Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart Edward Wormley for Dunbar C1953

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Fabulous bar cart/server with a drop down top which is 27 inches and 54 when raised, shelves for bottles, cupboard for glasses and other necessities. Model # 5433 created out of waln...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Edward Wormley for Drexel Precedent Collection Sideboard

$4,000

Edward Wormley for Drexel Precedent Collection Sideboard

By Edward Wormley, Drexel

Located in St. Louis, MO

Mid-Century Modern Wormley for Drexel, his Precedent collection sideboard-buffet, originally designed in the late 1940s. Center drawers with end cabinet doors and interior shelves. P...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Elm

Dunbar Credenza by Edward Wormley

$2,800

Dunbar Credenza by Edward Wormley

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Brooklyn, NY

This long cabinet features dark stained oak with bright ask doors. Ample storage with three cabinets and three drawers, all adorned with brass hardware. Please confirm location with ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Ash, Oak

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Stone Top Cabinet

$7,800

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Stone Top Cabinet

By Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

A walnut cabinet with inlayed doors, marble top and large brass glides. Designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar.

Category

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Important Edward Wormley For Dunbar Drop-Leaf Desk in Tawi Walnut & Steel 1950s

$20,000

Important Edward Wormley For Dunbar Drop-Leaf Desk in Tawi Walnut & Steel 1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Philadelphia, PA

Before this desk was built in the early 1950s, top-class American furniture design was typically unrecognizable compared to the mid century design that exploded in the late 1950s. Across the pond in Europe, the mid century revolution had already happened, yielding huge success in the form of designers and architects like Ettore Sottsass and many more. This inspired Dunbar to produce this desk: one of the most conservatively designed Dunbar models ever at the time. Then, it probably looked incredibly sleek and handsome. Now, it stands as a piece of history not only for Dunbar, but for American design as a whole. In classic Dunbar fashion, the construction of the desk is absolutely in the top of its class. Known for overbuilt pieces, this desk takes it to another level. A frame of black enameled square tubular steel supports a mahogany cabinet with four drawers of the same material, attached with beautiful solid brass hardware. The top is of a rare form of walnut called tawi, which has an interesting grain structure that's visibly more smooth than figured walnut, and is secured to the base with no less than 12 high-quality brass screws. The hinges for the drop side are also uncessesarily intricate, and feature exceptional stability and smoothness. When the drop side is extended, it feels like a perfect natural extension of the main work surface. To top it all off, the drop side has sliding support panel on the underside made of solid rosewood, one of the most expensive and premium woods. Signed in the interior of the second drawer with a metal label. An extraordinary construction for an extraordinary piece of history. In good condition. Top has been refinished and is ready for another generation of use. Structurally excellent. Drawers slide smoothly with almost no dip when extended. Drop side is sturdy and hinges feel great. If desired, we can restore this desk even more. We can repaint the frame black, we can refinish the cabinet, polish brass, etc. As it stands, it has a nice original patina that adds to the character of the desk. Let us know what you'd likle to see! We have decades of experience restoring vintage furniture...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass, Steel

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Mahogany Credenza

$3,447

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Mahogany Credenza

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Mahogany Credenza This credenza measures: 61.5 wide x 18 deep x 32.25 inches high Fair Vintage Condition - Finish Is Rough. Chips and Scratche...

Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Stunning Edward Wormely Chest/Buffet/Credenza in Black Lacquer

$7,500

Stunning Edward Wormely Chest/Buffet/Credenza in Black Lacquer

By Edward Wormley

Located in Atlanta, GA

A Beautiful multi-purpose case piece by Edward Wormley for Drexel, circa 1947. Wonderful design allows for use as a chest, buffet or credenza. Restored in black lacquer to provide co...

Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Chest of Drawers Precedent Edward Wormely for Drexel

$1,300

Chest of Drawers Precedent Edward Wormely for Drexel

By Edward Wormley, Drexel

Located in New York, NY

Drexel Precedent line Chest of Drawers, Dresser, designed by Edward Wormely. Mid Century Chest of Drawers, dresser manufactured by Drexel. Elm wood with brass handles. Works well ...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Elm

Edward Wormley for Dunbar, Rosewood and Mahogany Rolltop Desk

$11,500

Edward Wormley for Dunbar, Rosewood and Mahogany Rolltop Desk

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Palm Springs, CA

A beautiful Dunbar roll top desk designed by Edward Wormley.. It features two roll top tambour sections and a center flat section. There are three...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Two Midcentury Ebonized Walnut Woven Front Credenzas, Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$24,000Sale Price / set|20% Off

Two Midcentury Ebonized Walnut Woven Front Credenzas, Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Chicago, IL

Two signed Edward Wormley for Dunbar ebonized walnut woven front credenzas with brass fittings. One is a darker walnut than the other so they are not exactly matching in coloration. ...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Roger Sprunger for Dunbar Walnut Executive Desk with Plinth Bases

$7,800

Mid Century Roger Sprunger for Dunbar Walnut Executive Desk with Plinth Bases

By Edward Wormley

Located in Bedford Hills, NY

A monumental and sophisticated executive desk manufactured by Dunbar Furniture of Berne, Indiana. Designed during the Roger Sprunger era, this piece embodies the transition from mid-...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Rare 1940s Elegant Edward Wormley for Dunbar Partners Desk Leather Top & Drawers

$30,000

Rare 1940s Elegant Edward Wormley for Dunbar Partners Desk Leather Top & Drawers

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in St. Louis, MO

Simply put, perhaps the most elegant desk designed by Edward J. Wormley. This very rare and early partner's desk, designed for Dunbar, c. 1940, model number 4600. Leather wrapped desk...

Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Brass

Mahogany Basket Weave Credenza by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

$8,700Sale Price|40% Off

Mahogany Basket Weave Credenza by Edward Wormley for Dunbar

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This is a rare ribbon mahogany and stainless steel basket weave front credenza by Edward Wormley for Dunbar. This piece retains its original Dunbar finish which is in excellent condi...

Category

1960s American Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Stainless Steel

Edward Wormley Woven Front Chest by Dunbar, Mahogany & Nickel, 1956

$8,100Sale Price|55% Off

Edward Wormley Woven Front Chest by Dunbar, Mahogany & Nickel, 1956

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in New York, NY

Edward Wormely for Dunbar woven front chest, mahogany and brushed nickel, signed. Medium scale commode, No. 4465, with two woven front sliding doors,...

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Nickel

Pair of Fine Edward Wormley Chest of Drawers / Dressers for Dunbar

$16,950 / set

Pair of Fine Edward Wormley Chest of Drawers / Dressers for Dunbar

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley, Harvey Probber

Located in Chicago, IL

A Fine Pair of Edward Wormley Chest of Drawers or Dressers for Dunbar. Leather wrapped designer handles. Dovetailed Drawers. Incredible detailed craftsmanship. Note the fine edged ou...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Edward J Wormley for Dunbar Furniture Co. Mid-Century American Walnut Chest

$12,900

Edward J Wormley for Dunbar Furniture Co. Mid-Century American Walnut Chest

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Queens, NY

American Mid-Century walnut cabinet with two tambour doors, the left with 4 larger pull out drawers, the right with 8 drawers of alternating size, resting on 2 U-shaped open bentwood...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Bentwood

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Credenza

$3,895 / item

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Credenza

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in Franklin Park, IL

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Mid Century Bleached Mahogany Credenza This credenza measures: 61.5 wide x 18 deep x 32.25 inches high Great Vintage Condition - Very Minor Scratches on t...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley Dunbar Double Sliding Door Cabinet

$7,800

Edward Wormley Dunbar Double Sliding Door Cabinet

By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

Edward Wormley solid walnut cased cabinet with two sliding doors supported on four legged brass frame with walnut caps on the feet. Original Dunbar label on the back.

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Edward Wormley, Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, USA, 1950s

$11,500

Edward Wormley, Chest of Drawers, Mahogany, USA, 1950s

By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture

Located in High Point, NC

A mahogany chest of drawers or dresser, designed by Edward Wormley and produced by Dunbar, Indiana, USA, c. 1950s.

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Credenza

$4,560Sale Price|22% Off

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Credenza

By Edward Wormley

Located in Pasadena, TX

Elegantly crafted credenza made of walnut. Credenza features distinctive half moon drawer and door pulls.

Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Walnut

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cabinet with Brass Hardware

$8,500

Edward Wormley for Dunbar Cabinet with Brass Hardware

By Edward Wormley

Located in Dallas, TX

A beautifully restored walnut and mahogany cabinet with brass hardware and pull out trey. Designed by Edward Wormley for Dunbar.

Category

1950s Vintage Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

Materials

Mahogany, Walnut

Edward Wormley case pieces and storage cabinets for sale on 1stDibs.

Edward Wormley case pieces and storage cabinets 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 Edward Wormley case pieces and storage cabinets, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original case pieces and storage cabinets by Edward Wormley were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider case pieces and storage cabinets by Dunbar, George Nelson, and Widdicomb Furniture Co.. Prices for Edward Wormley case pieces and storage cabinets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $1,499 and can go as high as $30,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $8,000.

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Questions About Edward Wormley Case Pieces and Storage Cabinets

What materials did Edward Wormley use?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Edward Wormley used a variety of materials over the course of his career. Among them were laminated wood, brass, marble and silk. Not an axiomatic modernist, Wormley deeply appreciated traditional design, and consequently, his vintage seating, storage cabinets, bar carts and other work have an understated warmth and a timeless quality that sets them apart from other furnishings of the era. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Edward Wormley furniture.

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