Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 3

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 6

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

Are the 1970s mid-century?

Accepted Answer

No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 13

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Question 15

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What makes a dresser mid-century?

Accepted Answer

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 19

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. The mid-century modern period in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs now.

Question 20

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Collection Mid Century

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Console Tables

Pace Collection Mid-Century Modern Demi-Lune Sideboard in Metal & Glass

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Pace Collection Midcentury Burlwood and Black Lacquer Dining Table

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Paul McCobb for Calvin Connoisseur Collection Mid-Century Side Table

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Michael Taylor for Baker New World Collection Mid Century Expanding Dining Table

2010s Persian Rugs

NASIRI Mazandaran Collection - Mid-Century Ocean

20th Century Armenian Tribal Central Asian Rugs

Zabihi Collection Mid-Century Armenian Kurd Runner

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Broyhill Premier Emphasis Collection Mid Century Dresser

21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Modern Central Asian Rugs

Nazmiyal Collection Mid-Century Modern Inspired Design Rug 9'3" x 13'

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Pair of Pace Collection Mid-Century American Modern High Back Mahogany Chairs

21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Mid-Century Modern Central A...

Nazmiyal Collection Mid Century Modern Swedish Design Area Rug 12'5" x 15'4"

21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Mid-Century Modern Central A...

Nazmiyal Collection Mid Century Modern Geometric Modern Area Rug 13'7" x 16'1"

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Kilim Central Asian Rugs

Nazmiyal Collection Mid-Century Modern Swedish Design Kilim Rug 9'2" x 11'10"

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Pace Collection Mid Century Italian Modern Thick Black Marble Granite Top Desk

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Stunning Lane Brutalist Queen Headboard Pueblo Collection Mid-Century Modern

21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars

FS Flores Collection Midcentury Style Tropical Woven Reed Bar

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Michael Taylor for Baker Coffee Table - Far East Collection - Mid-Century Modern

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars

Paul McCobb Connoisseur Collection Mid-Century Modern Mahogany Dry Bar or Server

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Glass

Large collection Midcentury Orrefors Tulip Glasses Nils Landberg Sweden 1950s

21st Century and Contemporary Central Asian Mid-Century Modern Central A...

Nazmiyal Collection Mid-century Modern Design Rug. 9 ft 5 in x 12 ft 3 in

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Pace Octagonal Mid-Century Modern Glass & Brass Coffee Table Heavy Glass Top

2010s Malaysian Modern Dinner Plates

Charger Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Thai Modern Metalwork

Bronze Vase The Stem Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative Metal New

2010s Thai Modern Metalwork

Bronze Vase The Gourd Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative Metal New

2010s Chinese Modern Furniture

Side Console Table Desk Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Brown Laptop Oak New

2010s Malaysian Modern Serving Pieces

Large Round Serving Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Thai Modern Metalwork

Bronze Vase The Cocoon Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative New Metal

2010s Thai Modern Metalwork

Bronze Vase The Bud Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative Metal New

2010s Malaysian Modern Platters and Serveware

Medium Rectangular Tray Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware Serveware

2010s Malaysian Modern Serving Pieces

Large Oval Serving Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Chinese Modern Ceramics

Ceramic Vase the Bulb Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative New

2010s Malaysian Modern Serving Pieces

Medium Oval Serving Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Chinese Modern Ceramics

Ceramic Vase The Grain Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Decorative New

2010s Chinese Modern Lounge Chairs

Lounge Chair Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Brown Oak Plum Upholstered New

2010s Chinese Modern Dry Bars

Trolley Bar Cart Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Brown Oak Glass New

2010s Chinese Modern Furniture

Armchair Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Oak Olive Green Upholstered New

2010s Malaysian Modern Dinner Plates

Set of 2 Fruit Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Malaysian Modern Dinner Plates

Set of 2 Soup Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Malaysian Modern Dinner Plates

Set of 2 Bread Plate Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware New

2010s Malaysian Modern Platters and Serveware

Set of 2 Cylindrical Box With Lid Mid Century Rhythm André Fu Living Tableware

2010s Malaysian Modern Porcelain