When in the 1930s Tommi Parzinger won a trip to the United States through a poster design competition for a German steamship company, it led to him to become one of the country’s most influential mid-century modern furniture designers with his company, Parzinger Originals.
Born in 1903 in Munich, Germany, into an artistic family, Parzinger studied ceramics, painting and design at the Kunstgewerbeschule. In 1932, he entered and won a poster design contest for the Norddeutscher Lloyd steamship company. The grand prize was a voyage to the United States. By the time Parzinger returned to Germany, unrest leading to World War II was emerging, and he was pressured to join the Nazi party. Parzinger fled back to the United States and settled in New York City, where he pursued a career in interior design.
His first job in the country was with Manhattan trendsetter Rena Rosenthal, who employed him to design household silverware for her famed Madison Avenue store. Later, he became the lead designer for the Charak Furniture Company. In the 1940s, with the help of business and life partner Donald Cameron, Parzinger opened his showroom, Parzinger Originals, on East 57th Street in Manhattan.
Throughout his career, Parzinger produced up to 30 pieces a year for his namesake company. They included refined, elegant and meticulously designed end tables, side tables, consoles, floor lamps, table lamps, seating and mirrors. His signature creations were commodes and credenzas featuring beautifully ornamented hardware and lacquer finishes. His clients included Marilyn Monroe, Billy Baldwin and some of New York’s wealthiest families, like the DuPonts and Rockefellers.
Parzinger also collaborated with other furniture companies, including Salterini, Hofstatter, Lightolier, Reed & Barton and Dorlyn. In the last 15 years of his life, he shifted his focus from furniture to Expressionist painting.
When Parzinger died in 1981, Parzinger Originals was left to Donald Cameron, who fought to protect Parzinger’s design legacy from copycats and reproductions. Nevertheless, Parzinger Originals soon closed.
In recent years, Parzinger Originals furniture has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity among interior designers and collectors of mid-century modern and modern furniture. Pieces from Parzinger Originals are in the collections of the Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum.
On 1stDibs, discover a range of Parzinger Originals case pieces and storage cabinets, tables, lighting and more.
Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals Mid Century Walnut and Brass Credenza
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals Mid Century Walnut and Brass Credenza This credenza measures: 99.75 wide x 21.25 deep x 34.25 inches high Great Vintage Condition - Minor Sc...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger Coffee Table for Parzinger Originals
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Chicago, IL
Tommi Parzinger Coffee Table, Model 222 Parzinger Originals, USA, c. 1965 Glass coffee tables features a lower wood table top mounted to steel frame. Metal from underside shows a...
Steel
Tommi Parzinger Chandelier for Parzinger Originals
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Chicago, IL
Tommi Parzinger Chandelier for Parzinger Originals, c. 1955 Design: Six-arm light source with individual shades Materials: Zinc-plated brass, paper, and glass Dimensions: 40.75" H x ...
Brass
Original Tommi Parzinger Sculpted Front Chest of Drawers 'Signed'
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in North Miami, FL
This is an original condition, beautifully preserved 6-drawer chest by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals in a high lacquer mahogany, all original brass pulls. The front is a se...
Brass
$12,900 / set
Tommi Parzinger Large Scale End Tables
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Rare pair of large scale end tables designed by Tommi Parzinger. Tables feature elegant curved legs and a beautiful top. Model #209. Great styling cues reminiscent of T.H. Robsjohn-G...
Mahogany
$7,600Sale Price|20% Off
Console Flip Top Dining Table by Parzinger with Brass String Inlay
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in New York, NY
Rare flip top dining table, designed by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger originals, circa 1950s. Stunning diamond pattern veneer, with elegant arch...
Brass
$3,950Sale Price|46% Off
Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals Floor Lamp with Side Table, 1955, Signed
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This incredible floor lamp with built-in side table by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals is finished in a black lacquer with Parzinger's signature brass accents. Signed 'Parzinger Originals' under the base, making this 1950s authentic designer piece ultra-collectible. The three lights comprise of a single up-light and two down-lights which can be turned on and off independently of one another or used in unison as demonstrated in the photos. A glass Stiffel branded glass cone shade sits on top of the lamp and a larger black fabric shade with golden insides is included. Can be used with or without the larger black shade. Consider using in a Mid-Century Modern, Hollywood Regency or Postmodern home...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger Coffee Table, Model 222 Parzinger Originals, USA, c. 1965
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Tommi Parzinger Coffee Table, Model 222 Parzinger Originals, USA, c. 1965 This elegant mid century modern coffee table, designed by Tommi Parzinger, exemplifies the Hollywood Regen...
Brass, Steel
Tommi Parzinger Sofa for Parzinger Originals
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Chicago, IL
Tommi Parzinger sofa for Parzinger Originals, ceruse oak solid legs, fully restored and reupholstered with great plains cotton-poly.
Upholstery, Oak
Tommi Parzinger Lacquered and Studded Cabinet
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in New York, NY
Tommi Parzinger Studded Two-Drawer Chest with Inset black Glass Top. Finish is original and untouched. This example was manufactured in the mid fifties to early 60's, and was part of...
Brass
Stunning Tommi Parzinger Studded Handcuff Credenza Sideboard
By Parzinger Originals
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A luxurious chrome studded lemon-yellow credenza sideboard with unique heavy chromed handcuff door pulls. This exceptional piece has four doors, the in...
Metal, Chrome
$8,505Sale Price|65% Off
Tommi Parzinger Originals Modern Armchair and Ottoman, Club Chair, 1958
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Tommi Parzinger lounge chair and ottoman, ebonized frame, charcoal grey upholstery. Single owner. Authenticated with the original purchased receipt from Parzinger Originals Inc., dat...
Textile
Tommi Parzinger Chandelier for Parzinger Originals
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Chicago, IL
Tommi Parzinger Chandelier for Parzinger Originals, c. 1955 Design: Six-arm light source with individual shades Materials: Zinc-plated brass, paper, and glass Dimensions: 40.75" H x ...
Zinc
Tommi Parzinger Tall Illuminated Bar Cabinet for Parzinger Originals
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
An extraordinary dry bar designed by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals. This cabinet is absolutely fabulous. It features gorgeous door fronts with a wave like pattern in high g...
Walnut
1950's Tommi Parzinger Dining Chairs in Brunschwig & Fils
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Southampton, NJ
Set of 6 Mahogany dining chairs for Parzinger Originals newly upholstered in Brunschwig & Fils woven Chinoiserie fabric. Circa 1950's in excellent vintage condition; ready for use. C...
Upholstery, Mahogany
Parzinger Originals Stainless & White Lacquer Wall Mounted Console
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Hanover, MA
Tommi Parzinger designed custom seven foot long wall mounted floating console sideboard fitted with with two drawers. Wood case and supporting brackets finished in white lacquer and...
Stainless Steel
Tommi Parzinger, Mid-Century Modern, Walnut, Burl, Rare Sideboard, USA, 1960s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Stamford, CT
Tommi Parzinger, Mid-Century Modern, Walnut, Burl, Rare Sideboard, USA, 1960s Unique sideboard designed by Tommi Parzinger (1903 - 1981) for Parzinger Originals in New York, circa 1...
Brass
$16,800Sale Price|25% Off
Tommi Parzinger Originals Modern Armchair and Ottoman, Club Chair, 1958
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Brooklyn, NY
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Textile
Hans Wegner Large Scale Oak End Tables or Night Stands
By Hans J. Wegner
Located in Atlanta, GA
Pair of large scale Danish Modern oak end tables, designed by Hans Wegner for Andreus Tuck, Denmark, circa 1950s. These tables are currently being...
Metal
Bow Front Mahogany Chest of Drawers
Located in Folkestone, GB
A superior quality George III period flame figured mahogany chest of four graduated drawers of exceptional colour and beautifully figured surfaces. Standing on splayed feet with shap...
Mahogany
End Table from USA
Located in Sagaponack, NY
A handcrafted, sculptural side table having a patinated biomorphic bronze top floating atop an undulating wrought iron base.
Bronze, Iron
Tommi Parzinger for Charak Mahogany Danbury Extend Dining Table
By Charak Furniture Company, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Rio Vista, CA
A rare mid-century modern drop-leaf expanding "Danbury" bleached mahogany dining table designed by Tommi Parzinger (Germany 1903-1981) for Charak Furniture, Boston. The table is cons...
Brass
$5,500 / set
H 19.25 in W 21 in D 13.25 in
Tommi Parzinger Night Stands - Refinished in Your Color Choice
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in Atlanta, GA
Pair of Elegant End Tables or Nightstands, designed by Tommi Parzinger for Charak, American, circa 1960s. These are currently being refinished and can be completed in your color choi...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger Charak Modern Console Table
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
A classic console table by Tommi Parzinger for Charak Modern ca' 1940's. Single drawer with classic brass hardware.
Mahogany
Mid-Century Modern Brass Bound Walnut Credenza / Sideboard By Heritage
By Heritage Furniture
Located in Kennesaw, GA
I love this! It is a mid-century modern brass bound walnut credenza by Heritage. It opens to three sections of storage. It is in very good vintage condition.
Brass
$5,450
H 29.5 in W 76 in D 20 in
Mid-Century Modern Walnut and Brass Cantilevered Credenza by Myrtle Desk Co.
By Myrtle Desk Co.
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This marvelous vintage cantilevered credenza by Myrtle Desk Co., crafted in the United States in the 1970s, is a remarkable example of mid-century modern a...
Brass
1950s Tommi Parzinger for Charak Modern Chest of Drawers
By Tommi Parzinger, Charak Furniture Company
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Wonderful Sabre leg chest of drawers on mahogany by Tommi Parzinger for Charak Modern. Great scale and stunning hardware Other notable designer from the period include T.H. Robsjohn...
Mahogany
Mid Century Modern Walnut Credenza for Restoration
Located in Bridgeport, CT
A classic Mid Century cabinet with great lines. The long case with carved raised edge and double doors with complimentary wood grain and recessed handles. With three interior compart...
Walnut
$1,799Sale Price|35% Off
H 30 in Dm 20 in
Mid-Century Modern Brass Chandelier Attributed to Tommi Parzinger
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in Redding, CT
Mid-Century Modern brass chandelier attributed to Tommi Parzinger for Lightolier. Eight delicate brass arm chandelier with extended candlestick en...
Brass
On Hold|$4,850
H 40.25 in W 44 in D 18.25 in
Tommi Parzinger Glazed Leather Chest Of Drawers For Charak Modern
Located in Essex, MA
Rectangular with the case lacquered to imitate vellum. Three drawers with leather and glazed surface. Mother of Pearl knobs. Signed "Charak Modern" inside drawer. Square section feet.
Leather, Wood, Lacquer
Tommi Parzinger Curly Maple & Brass Floor Lamps, Mid-Century 1956
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Astoria, NY
Tommi Parzinger (German, 1903-1981) for Parzinger Originals Pair of Curly Maple and Brass Floor Lamp, 1956, custom-made from the Appleman Commission, with silk octagonal shades. Ove...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger Rare and Exquisite Pair of Lounge Chairs 1950s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare pair of lounge chairs model #224 with sculptural legs and exquisite backrest design in dark walnut with upholstered seats and backs by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, A...
Bouclé, Walnut
Tommi Parzinger Floor Lamp
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Brooklyn, NY
For your consideration is this exceptional circa 1950s midcentury floor lamp by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals. The lamp is fully restored and in great working order. It fea...
Brass
Sold
H 32 in W 68 in D 16.5 in
Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals MCM Milk Glass Top Console Credenza
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Franklin Park, IL
Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals Mid Century Milk Glass Top Console Credenza This credenza measures: 68 wide x 16.5 deep x 32 inches high Excellent Vintage Condition - Finis...
Milk Glass, Wood
Tommi Parzinger Rare and Exquisite Pair of Lounge Chairs 1950s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare pair of lounge chairs model #224 with sculptural legs and exquisite backrest design in dark walnut with upholstered seats and backs by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, A...
Bouclé, Walnut
Tommi Parzinger Rare Chic King Size Headboard 1960s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
King size headboard in white lacquered steel with stylized brass decorative elements by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, American 1960's. Tommi Parzinger was celebrated for r...
Brass, Steel
Tommi Parzinger 3-Door Credenza with Iconic Brass Pulls 1950s (Signed)
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Beautifully tailored and finished 3-door credenza in high gloss black lacquer with engraved brass pulls by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, American 1950's (signed “Parzinger...
Brass
Sold
H 32.5 in W 72 in D 18 in
'Parzginer Originals' Mahogany & Brass Dresser by Tommi Parzinger c 1959, Signed
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This exquisite work of art is by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, circa 1959, signed 'Parzinger Originals' in one drawer interior. Effortlessly refined, this versatile brass...
Brass
Sold
H 28.5 in W 84 in D 48 in
Tommi Parzinger Rare Dining Table with Bronze Base and Inlaid Mahogany Top 1950s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare extension dining table with hand-forged bronze base with engraved brass accents and top in mahogany with satinwood inlays by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, American 19...
Brass, Bronze
Tommi Parzinger, Coffee Table, Steel, Glass, Wood, USA, 1950s
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in High Point, NC
A steel, glass and beige-lacquered wood coffee table designed by Tommi Parzinger and produced by Parzinger Originals, USA, 1950s.
Steel
Tommi Parzinger Iconic Studded Small Chest/Bedside Table 1981
By Tommi Parzinger, Parzinger Originals
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Small cabinet/chest/bedside table model 223S with 2 drawers in white lacquered mahogany with chrome studs and exquisite pulls by Tommi Parzinger for Parzinger Originals, American 198...
Chrome
Tommi Parzinger Elegant Upholstered Bench with Tapering Legs 1950s
By Parzinger Originals, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
Rare elegant upholstered bench, model number 313, with base in mahogany and upholstered seat with signature elements that wrap around frame b...
Fabric, Mahogany