Grand Rapids, Michigan, was once known as “Furniture City” for its local mass-production industry that flourished from the mid-19th century into the early 20th century, led by furniture manufacturers like John Stuart. Stuart’s eponymous company, which would build showrooms in New York and Philadelphia, designed and sold elegant reproductions of various furniture styles, including 18th-century French and English furniture as well as what we now call mid-century modern home furnishings built by European craftsmen in the entrepreneur’s Grand Rapids factory.
In 1845, a British cabinetmaker named George Widdicomb arrived in New York before moving to Grand Rapids. There he set up a small cabinet shop in 1857 with a dozen craftsmen, including his son John Widdicomb. The store quickly found success due to Widdicomb’s English training and the dearth of other quality furniture makers in the region. Toward the end of the 19th century, Grand Rapids had earned an international reputation as a leader of American furniture manufacturing, and while the Widdicomb family would navigate some difficulty after the Civil War, they emerged anew as Widdicomb Brothers and Richards, and then the Widdicomb Furniture Company. Widdicomb’s son started his own company in 1897, the John Widdicomb Company, and in 1929, the Grand Rapids–born John Stuart joined the company as a director.
Stuart, who had been in the furniture industry since 1913, was named president of John Widdicomb Company in the early 1940s and by then had formed John Stuart, Inc., with partner Herbert M. Rothschild. John Stuart, Inc.’s offerings included oak buffets and other dining-room furnishings crafted in the Tudor and Elizabethan styles, with cabinet doors and drawer fronts characterized by meticulously carved natural-world motifs and other decorative flourishes. Stuart also oversaw the design of reproductions of sophisticated walnut and mahogany Queen Anne side tables and dining chairs, with the latter marked by pronounced, vase-shaped curves in the back splats and cabriole legs. In 1952, the manufacturer and distributor’s founder sold the business, including the right to trade under his name, to the John Widdicomb Company.
Find a wide variety of vintage John Stuart furniture on 1stDibs.
Finn Juhl Teak Dining Table for John Stuart and France & Son, Model FD 540
By Finn Juhl, France & Søn, John Stuart
Located in Brooklyn, NY
An exceptional mid century modern teak dining table designed by Finn Juhl and produced by John Stuart in collaboration with France & Son, Denmark. Model FD 540. This table is a s...
Teak
John Stuart Mid-Century Modern Walnut Extension Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By John Stuart, Mount Airy Furniture Company
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern walnut extension dining table By John Stuart for Mount Airy "Janus Collection" USA, 1960s Measures: 62" W x 42" D x 29.5" H. Extends up to ...
Walnut
Robert Baron for Glenn of California Rosewood Parsons Dining Table, Refinished
By Glenn of California, John Stuart, Robert Baron
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern Parsons extension dining table By Robert Baron for Glenn of California and retailed by John Stuart USA, Circa 1960s Stunning book-matched B...
Chrome
$5,600Sale Price|20% Off
Paul Frankl John Stuart Walnut Expandable Dining Table Johnson Furniture 1950s
By Paul Frankl, John Stuart
Located in Camden, ME
This elegant round mahogany dining table by Paul Frankl for John Stuart, circa 1950s, showcases the designer’s mastery of clean, modern lines paired with exceptional craftsmanship. T...
Walnut
John Stuart Georgian Oak Pedestal Extension Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
A gorgeous Georgian, Regency, or Queen Anne style double pedestal extension dining table By John Stuart USA, Circa 1970s Carved oak, with gorgeous book-matched starburst oak top. ...
Oak
John Stuart Extendable Dining Table, Mahogany & Walnut, 1960s
By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture, John Stuart
Located in Southampton, NJ
Handsome extendable dining table by John Stuart boasting stunning banded Mahogany & book-matched flame walnut top. Classic brass cuff detailing to legs the ebonized base with Ori...
Brass
$4,797Sale Price|40% Off
Superb Midcentury Brazilian Rosewood Modern Extension Dining Table 2 Leaves
By John Stuart
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Stunning midcentury Brazilian rosewood Rectangle Modern extension dining table with (2) leaves. This table has Black wood legs with chrome stretcher. This table is in beautiful condi...
Rosewood
Danish Mid-Century Modern Large Two-Tone Dining Room Table with 2 Leaves
By Dunbar Furniture, John Stuart
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Two-tone large 45" deep dining room table with two 24" leaves by John Stuart. Total maximum expending length is 114". Beautiful ebonized base and legs.
Mahogany
1980s John Stuart Rosewood Crome Extended Dining Table
By John Stuart
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning and rare, rosewood veneer with chrome trim dining table you could hope to find. In its original condition. No restoration. Outst...
Chrome
Dark Burl Wood Glass Top Inserts Two Extension boards Leaves Dining Table
By John Stuart, Milo Baughman
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern John Stuart burl wood dining table with 2 x 20" extension boards leaves. Outstanding condition and craftsmanship vintage dining table.
Brass
$1,344Sale Price|48% Off
Mid Century Modern Rectangular Teak Dining Table with Black Painted Legs
By John Stuart
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern dining table by John Stuart features beautiful walnut top with original finish and four black painted wood legs. No leaf with this item but it is expandable a...
Teak, Paint
Elegant Georgian-Style Mahogany Pedestal Dining Table
Located in Cheshire, GB
This beautifully crafted Georgian-style round dining table features a rich mahogany top framed by a striking crossbanded border. The warm tones of the mahogany blend gracefully with ...
Wood
$3,590
H 27.96 in W 74.81 in D 48.43 in
Oval Extendable Rosewood Dining Table by John Mortensen, Denmark, 1960s
By Heltborg Møbler, John Mortensen
Located in Nørre Aaby, DK
Elegant oval dining table designed by John Mortensen and produced by Heltborg Møbelfabrik in Denmark during the 1960s. Crafted in beautifully grained rosewood, the table comes with t...
Rosewood
Finn Juhl Dining Table and Chairs
By Baker Furniture Company, Finn Juhl
Located in Highland, IN
This exquisite dining set by Finn Juhl was designed in 1951 and is Classic Juhl. The sculptural frames of the model FJ 51 chairs support the curved seats and backs giving them the ap...
Walnut
$2,310
H 29.5 in W 59.5 in D 33.75 in
1930s Newly Refinished Double Pedestal Mahogany Extension Dining Table
Located in Germantown, MD
1930s Newly Refinished George III style Double Pedestal Mahogany Extension Dining Table. Excellent condition. Totally refinished to the pedestals and legs with hand-rub finish appear...
Mahogany
$3,195
H 29.75 in W 87.5 in D 48 in
Newly Refinished - Expanding Mid-Century Swedish Modern Teak Dining Table
By J.O. Carlsson, Karl-Erik Ekselius
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage desig...
Teak
$5,868
H 28.35 in W 74.81 in D 35.44 in
Finn Juhl Rosewood 'Diplomat' Desk, by France & Son, Denmark 1960s
By Finn Juhl, France & Søn
Located in Wargrave, Berkshire
Finn Juhl 'Diplomat' executive desk in rosewood, fitted two drawers to each side with aluminium pulls below a pullout lined with felt/glass. Designed circa 1957 and likely manufactur...
Rosewood
Oak Parquetry Extension Dining Table
Located in Westwood, NJ
An oak parquetry extension dining table with tapered oak legs. The beautiful table has a mirrored herringbone oak parquetry top with a molded edge. S...
Wood
Pair of Milo Baughman End Tables for Glenn of California
By Glenn of California, Milo Baughman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This is a great pair of Milo Baughman designed end tables for Glenn of California with a magazine shelf and book cubby. Fully restored.
Mid century Rosewood Danish Modern Extension Dining Table 2 Leaves
By H. Sigh & Søns Møbelfabrik AS, Arne Vodder
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid century Rosewood Rectangle Danish Modern extension dining table with (2) nesting pull out leaves. This table has Solid rosewood round tapered legs. This table is in good vintage ...
Birch, Rosewood
Paul Frankl Cork Top Two-Tier Side Table for Johnson Furniture
By Johnson Furniture Company, Paul Frankl
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This striking two-tier side table by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture is a perfect example of his innovative approach to modern design. Featuring a natural cork top, it offers a bea...
Mahogany, Cork
1960s Mid Century Danish Modern Teak Dining Table (Refinished)
Located in North Hollywood, CA
✨ Danish Modern Teak Extension Dining Table ✨ Crafted in Denmark during the 1960s, this Danish Modern teak extension dining table is a striking example of Scandinavian design at its...
Teak
Mid-Century Teak Extendable Dining Table, Belgium 1960s
Located in Meulebeke, BE
Belgium / 1960 / dining table / teak / Mid-century / Vintage A refined example of Belgian mid-century craftsmanship, this adjustable teak dining table from the 1960s combines minima...
Teak
Sold
H 28.63 in W 88 in D 40 in
Robert Baron for Glenn of California Extension Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By Robert Baron, John Stuart, Glenn of California
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern Parsons extension dining table By Robert Baron for Glenn of California and retailed by John Stuart USA, Circa 1960s Stunning book-matched Brazili...
Chrome
Sold
H 29 in W 66 in D 41 in
1960s Designer John Stuart Dining Table in Mid Century Modern With Two Leaves
By John Stuart
Located in Saddle River, NJ
Vintage John Stuart Dining Table in Mid-Century Modern Style with Two Leaves. Elevate your dining space with this stunning Vintage John Stuart Dining Table. This iconic piece combines timeless design with exceptional craftsmanship. Key Features: John Stuart Design: Crafted by the renowned furniture maker, ensuring superior quality and style. Mid-Century Modern Style: The clean lines and minimalist design are characteristic of the mid-century modern era. Expandable Design: The two removable leaves allow you to accommodate larger gatherings. High-Quality Materials: The use of high-quality wood ensures durability and longevity. Vintage Charm: The 1960s design adds a touch of nostalgia. Specifications: Dimensions (without leaves): 66 inches wide x 41 inches deep x 29 inches high Style: Mid-Century Modern Table Shape: Rectangle Number of Table Leaves: 2 Table Leaf Width: 20 inches Table Knee Clearance: 25 inches...
Wood
Sold
H 29.25 in Dm 42.25 in
JOHN STUART INC. Midcentury Round Walnut Extension Dining Table w. 2 leaves
By John Stuart Inc., John Stuart
Located in Hudson, NY
Absolutely stunning dining table by JOHN STUART INC. Extraordinary American midcentury maker and distributor of fine furniture. The round table top and leaves are a beautiful walnut ...
Mahogany, Walnut
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Large Expanding Dining Table
By John Stuart
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Expertly Refinished, Polished Aluminum Base With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for v...
Aluminum
Sold
H 29.38 in W 96 in D 38 in
John Stuart Mid-Century Modern Burl Wood Parsons Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By Milo Baughman, John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern burl wood Parsons extension dining table By John Stuart USA, Circa 1960s Measures: 60"W x 38"D x 29.38"H. Extends up to 96"W with two 18" leaves....
Burl
Sold
H 29.5 in W 66.5 in D 45 in
John Stuart Light Walnut Boat Shape Walnut Dining Table Tapered Leg Two Leaves
By John Stuart, Paul McCobb
Located in Rockaway, NJ
John Stuart Light Walnut Boat Shape Walnut Dining Table Tapered Leg Two 18" Leaves MINT!
Walnut
John Stuart Bronze & Glass Extendable Dining Table
By John Stuart
Located in Denton, TX
John Stuart Bronze over steel & Glass Extendable Dining Table. Each leaf measures 18.75.
Brass
Sold
H 29.25 in W 110 in D 42 in
John Stuart Mid-Century Modern Exotic Calamander Wood Dining Table, Refinished
By John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
An extremely rare and exceptional Mid-Century Modern extension dining table By John Stuart USA, Circa 1960s Book-matched exotic Sri Lankan calamander wood, with black lacque...
Chrome
Sold
H 29.25 in W 64 in D 42 in
John Widdicomb for John Stuart Olivewood Burl Parsons Dining Room Table
By John Stuart, John Widdicomb
Located in West Hartford, CT
Elegant John Widdicomb burl wood dining table purchased through John Stuart. A famous table indeed and so iconic of the period. The burl at top looks like a work of art. While the ta...
Burl
Sold
H 28.88 in W 92 in D 44 in
John Stuart Mid-Century Modern Teak and Ebonized Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional mid-century modern extension dining table By John Stuart USA, 1950s Book-matched teak wood top, with ebonized banding and legs and brass-capped feet. Measu...
Brass
Sold
H 29.25 in W 96 in D 40 in
John Stuart Janus Collection Sculpted Walnut Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern sculpted walnut oval extension dining table By John Stuart, "Janus Collection" USA, 1960s Measu...
Walnut
Sold
H 28.5 in W 127.25 in D 41 in
Richard Thompson for Glenn of California Walnut Dining Table, Newly Refinished
By Richard Thompson, Glenn of California, John Stuart
Located in South Bend, IN
An exceptional Mid-Century Modern sculpted walnut extension dining table By Richard Thompson for Glenn of California Retailed by John Stuart USA, 1960s Measures: 67.25"W ...
Walnut