Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
German furniture designer Tommi Parzinger brought high-style modernism to the forefront. Taking a vivid, stylized approach to mid-century furniture, many of his works feature boldly colored lacquers and offbeat finishes that make his pieces stand out among the works of his peers. Despite his uniquely progressive vision, Parzinger showed equal expertise in producing fine, traditional furnishings.
Born in Munich, Parzinger moved to New York City in 1932. He began his practice in the United States by designing for the Manhattan style trailblazer Rena Rosenthal. In 1939, he established his first company, which split its focus between handcrafted silver household items — such as tea sets and barware — and home furnishings, like dining tables and cabinets. In his first year in business, Parzinger exhibited several pieces of furniture at the 1939 New York World’s Fair.
A master craftsman, Parzinger sought out the most exceptional materials for his furniture, employing the finest woods — like mahogany and walnut — as well as including custom brass hardware and pewter inlays.
His silver works presented an elevated level of style and grace. A November 1939 article in LIFE magazine described Parzinger as “the most creative original designer of silverware in the United States.”
While he was still running his own business — creating 12 to 30 new designs each year — Charak Furniture Company appointed Parzinger as its head of modern furniture design. He modernized Charak’s design approach from a more traditional form to a mid-century modern style.
In the mid-1960s, Parzinger stopped designing furniture, turning his company over to his friend Donald Cameron. He shifted his attention to paintings, which he created until his death in 1981.
On 1stDibs, find a broad selection of vintage Tommi Panzinger tables, lighting, storage pieces and more.
1940s American Art Deco Vintage Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Wood
Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Walnut
21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Macassar
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Teak
20th Century Chinese Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Glass, Wood
1920s British Art Deco Vintage Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Velvet
21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Macassar
Mid-20th Century Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinese Export Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Elm
Mid-20th Century Chinese Mid-Century Modern Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Lacquer
Early 1900s Chinese Ming Antique Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Wood
20th Century Japanese Art Deco Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Wood, Lacquer
Early 19th Century Chinese Qing Antique Tommi Parzinger Asian Art and Furniture
Elm