Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
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.
Early 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Cane, Oak
1950s American Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
1810s Victorian Antique Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Wood, Walnut, Paint
1890s French Country Antique Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Glass, Oak
Mid-19th Century French Napoleon III Antique Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Glass, Oak
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Brass
20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Bamboo, Rattan, Wicker
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Pewter
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Aluminum, Brass
1860s English High Victorian Antique Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Glass, Hardwood
2010s American Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Glass, Walnut
1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Wood
20th Century Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Oak
1970s American Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Steel
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Brass
1950s American Hollywood Regency Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Metal, Brass
1950s American Hollywood Regency Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Metal, Brass
1950s American Vintage Tommi Parzinger Bookcases
Brass