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Tommi Parzinger Bookcases

German, 1903-1981

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.

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Creator: Tommi Parzinger
Tommi Parzinger Early Important Tall Cabinet/ Bookcase Limed Sawed Oak Cane Door
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in Westport, CT
Highly important Tommi Parzinger tall Limed sawed oak and Cane front Bookcase /Cabinet . 1930's together with original photo and sketch fro catalog page ,one of three possibly made. ...
Category

Early 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Tommi Parzinger Bookcases

Materials

Cane, Oak

Rare Tommi Parzinger Magazine Table with Handles
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
Rare Tommy Parzinger magazine table with handles on the sides and brass sabots. Designed for Charak Modern, circa 1950s, mahogany.
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1950s American Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases

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Tommi Parzinger bookcases for sale on 1stDibs.

Tommi Parzinger bookcases 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 Tommi Parzinger bookcases, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original bookcases by Tommi Parzinger were created in the modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider bookcases by Charles Hollis Jones, Paul McCobb, and Herman Miller. Prices for Tommi Parzinger bookcases can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $2,800 and can go as high as $35,000, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $4,800.

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