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.
Tommi Parzinger Henry Olko Server
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Cabinet by Henry Olko for Willow & Reed featuring signature hardware by Tommi Parzinger for Willow & Reed. Two-drop down leaves extend length to 59"...
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Bar Cart by Cesare Lacca, Walnut & Chrome, 1940s
By Cassina, Cesare Lacca
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A light-brown, vintage Mid-Century Modern Italian bar cart made of hand crafted polished Walnut, designed by Cesare Lacca and produced by Cassina, enhanced by detailed wood carvings,...
Metal, Chrome
Edward Wormley for Drexel Precedent Rolling Bar Cart
By Drexel, Edward Wormley
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pistachio green rolling bar cart from the Precedent series by Edward Wormley for Dunbar circa 1960. 3 tiered rolling cart featuring a textured glass top and casters. Precedent by Drexel...
Wood
$1,159
H 29.53 in W 27.56 in D 18.51 in
Italian Midcentury Serving Bar Cart or Trolley with Teak Trays, 1970s
Located in Morazzone, Varese
Classic serving cart, bar or trolley from the Italian mid-century, 1970s of great quality. The base of the trolley is made of black metal with two beautiful teak wood veneer shelves....
Metal
Italian Midcentury Rattan Cane and Bamboo Drinks Cart
Located in Austin, TX
A fine Italian handcrafted mid-century rattan and bamboo bar cart or drinks trolley. Featuring a two-tiered body with decorative accents - the top tier with a gallery and handle over...
Metal
Edward Wormley Bar Cart for Dunbar
By Edward Wormley, Dunbar Furniture
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This unique midcentury bar cart features a unique sliding slate style top that expands to 62 inches wide to reveal locking side cabinet. Additional storage in drawer and open adjusta...
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Rolling Bar/Serving Cart, Belgium design
Located in Antwerp, BE
Cubist Industrial solid chromed metal frame with inset white Formica and wengé shelves. In original good condition.
Metal
Bamboo Rattan Round Serving Bar Cart & Bottle Holder, Italy, 1960s
Located in Rome, IT
1960s round serving bar cart and bottle holder (up to four bottles) with a long curved handle for lifting in bamboo and rattan made in Italy.
Bamboo, Rattan, Wicker, Cane
$4,895
H 30 in W 45.5 in D 29.5 in
Italian Riviera-Style Bamboo and Rattan Drinks Cart or Trolley - Mid-Century Era
Located in Austin, TX
A fine Italian Riviera-style handcrafted rattan and bamboo bar cart or drinks trolley from the Mid Century period. Featuring a basket compartment frame top of curved bamboo, rattan,...
Metal
$2,355
H 28.2 in W 30 in D 20.2 in
Midcentury Modern Drinks Trolley / Bar Cart w. Tray, Blackened Wood and Chrome
Located in Lisse, NL
Large in size and very cool looking Mid-Century Modern bar cart. If you have a midcentury or an even more contemporary interior, then this rare 1950/60s drinks cart could be gracing...
Chrome
$1,164Sale Price|40% Off
H 29.5 in W 30 in D 28 in
American Mid-Century Modern Burl Wood And Brass Bar Trolley Server
By Mastercraft
Located in Haddonfield, NJ
American Mid-Century Modern burl wood and brass bar trolley server The trolley has the original brass hardware and wheels. The server is in good sturdy order and the wheels works ...
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Drop-Leaf Bar Cart by Vanson
By Vanson
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This elegant Mid-Century British bar cart is made of luxurious mahogany and features a versatile drop leaf design. The table is fixed now with no wheels, but can still accommodate wh...
Brass
Karl Springer fortuni covered Rolling Two-Tier Table
By Karl Springer
Located in Westport, CT
Karl Springer signed and dated, muted green and black covered black Foo Dog printed animal two-tier table, with original brass casters.
Brass
Tommi Parzinger Bar or Serving Cart
By Tommi Parzinger
Located in Atlanta, GA
Elegant Bar or Serving Cart, designed by Tommi Parzinger for Charak Modern, circa 1950's. It has been refinished in an ultra-deep brown lacquer and the brass hardware has been hand p...
Brass