French Mid Century Modern
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5,121
40,450
27,695
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90
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88
46
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296
1,215
66,195
3,341
1,672
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79
654
1,135
2,825
15,073
13,050
9,438
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508
32,264
20,467
12,910
11,328
9,050
66,063
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2,027
1,539
1,421
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879
836
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2 French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Located in Saint-Ouen, FR
2 French Mid-Century Modern floor lamps.
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Wrought Iron
1950s French Mid-Century Modern Dining Table
Located in Pasadena, TX
A fabulous designer French Mid-Century Modern dining table
handcrafted in France, circa 1950s
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables
Materials
Rosewood
French Mid-Century Modern Craftsman 'Twig' Chandelier
Located in New York, NY
Stunning French Mid-Century Modern Neo-Primitive / Rustic chandelier with an ephemeral presence
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Twig
French Mid-Century Modern Plexiglass Bar Cart
Located in Buchanan, NY
A French Mid-Century Modern plexiglass bar cart with brass trim. The cart has two-shelves of clear
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Chrome
French Mid Century Modern Studio Pottery Footed Bowl Charger
Located in London, GB
French Mid Century Modern Studio Pottery Footed Bowl Charger
C.1960
In very good condition
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic
4 French Mid-Century Modern Industrial Iron Stools / Benches
Located in New York, NY
Two pairs of French Mid-Century Modern / Industrial Design stools
Priced and sold by the pair.
Category
Vintage 1950s French Modern Stools
Materials
Steel
French Mid-Century Modern André Arbus Style Triangular Bench
By Jean-Michel Frank, Gio Ponti, Jules Leleu, André Arbus, Jean Prouvé
Located in Houston, TX
French Mid-Century Modern André Arbus style triangular bench. This unusual bench, ottoman or poof
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Benches
Materials
Wood
French Mid-Century Modern Armchair with Lambs Wool Seat
Located in North Bergen, NJ
This large and comfortable French Mid-Century Modern design armchair offers a wonderful contrast
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Three French Mid-Century Modern Brutalist Style Wood Bar Stools
Located in New York, NY
Three French Mid-Century Modern bar stools in the Brutalist spirit.
Provenance: Alps region
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Benches
French Mid-century Modern 3-Tiered Brass and Glass Table on Casters
Located in Miami, FL
French Mid-century Modern 3-Tiered Brass and Glass Table on Casters
Offered for sale is a French
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Dessert Tables and Tilt-top T...
Materials
Brass, Metal
A French Mid-Century Modern Circular Lucite and Brass Side Table.
Located in London, GB
A French Mid-Century Modern circular Lucite and brass side table..
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Brass
Two French Mid-Century Modern Lucite Valets / Coat Stands, 1970
By Pierre Vandel
Located in New York, NY
2 French Mid-Century Modern Perspex / Plexiglass valets with coat stands and pants rack. One piece
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands
Materials
Lucite, Plexiglass
Pair of Mathieu Mategot Sconces French Mid-Century Modern
By Mathieu Matégot
Located in Miami, FL
Italian and French Mid-Century Modern Sconces & Wall Lamps, over 500 pairs.
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass, Steel
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Side Table or Coffee Table
By Maison Ramsay
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and sober French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical end, side or coffee table attributed to
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Bronze, Copper, Metal
Pair French Mid-Century Modern Craftsman Ceramic Table Lamps
By Wharton Esherick
Located in New York, NY
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Craftsman table lamps in the form of urns. The pieces possess a
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Pottery, Clay, Ceramic
Pair French Mid-Century Modern Style Faux Coral Table Lamps
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and stylish pair of French Mid-Century Modern style faux coral table lamps resting on zinc
Category
Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Coral
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Leather Wrapped Mirror, Jacques Adnet
By Jacques Adnet
Located in New York, NY
French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical leather wrapped mirror in the style of Jacques Adnet. The
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Leather, Mirror
H 27.5 in W 16 in D 1.5 in
French Mid-Century Modern Copper and steel Patina Floor lamp 1950's
By Jacques Adnet
Located in Den Haag, NL
French Mid-Century Modern Copper and steel Patina Floor lamp 1950's
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal, Copper
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Jeanneret Style Lounge Chairs
By Jean Prouvé, Gio Ponti, Alfred Jensen, Charlotte Perriand, Pierre Jeanneret
Located in Houston, TX
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Jeanneret Style Lounge Chairs.
These stunning French Modernist
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Bouclé, Walnut
French Mid-Century Modern 3 Tier Lucite & Nickel Bar or Dessert Cart
Located in New York, NY
French Mid-Century Modern 3 Tier Lucite & Nickel Bar, Tea or Dessert Cart
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts
Materials
Nickel
French Mid-Century Modern Square Chrome Wall Mirror/ Convex Style Mirror
Located in Miami, FL
French Mid-Century Modern square chrome wall mirror/ convex style mirror.
Diameter of the mirror
Category
Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Chrome
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Rattan and Bamboo Sideboard / Cabinet
Located in New York, NY
Elegant French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical influenced rattan and bamboo sideboard, buffet
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Rattan
H 32 in W 39.5 in D 17.5 in
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern / Craftsman / Brutalist Wrought Iron Sconces
Located in New York, NY
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern handmade wrought iron wall lights in a industrial / Brutalist
Category
Mid-20th Century French Brutalist Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Iron
H 15.75 in W 11 in D 6.25 in
1950s French Mid Century Modern Formed Art Glass Chandelier - Unmarked Baccarat
By Baccarat
Located in Opa Locka, FL
On offer a c1950s French Mid Century Modern Formed Art Glass Pendant Chandelier Fixture. This is an
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Art Glass
Extraordinary French Mid-Century Modern Macassar Coffee Table
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Discover the splendor of this extraordinary French mid-century modern Macassar coffee table
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Steel
FRENCH Mid Century MODERN BOOKCASE, c. 1950's
Located in Weehawken, NJ
French Mid Century Modern Bookcase, c. 1950's. This incredible piece features plenty of shelving
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Bookcases
Materials
Mahogany
Pair French Mid Century Modern Silvered Bronze Hands/ Fists Light Bearing. Torch
By Maison Baguès
Located in Opa Locka, FL
Pair 1950's French Mid Century Modern Silvered Bronze Wall Sconces. Lifelike and lovely pair of
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Bronze
H 11 in W 15 in D 6 in
French Mid-Century Modern Leather & Iron Magazine Stand in Style Jacques Adnet
Located in New York, NY
Chic French Mid-Century Modern magazine stand in black patinated wrought iron with a hand-stitched
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Magazine Racks and Stands
H 21 in W 17.5 in D 15 in
French Mid-Century Modern Plexiglass Chandelier with Geometric Structure, 1980s
Located in MIlano, IT
French Mid-Century Modern plexiglass chandelier with geometric structure, 1980s
French plexiglass
Category
Vintage 1980s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
H 11.82 in Dm 28.75 in
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Iron Throne / Lounge Chair
Located in New York, NY
A rare, exotic French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical lounge chair or armchair The chair is
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass, Iron, Wrought Iron
Three French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Solid Bronze Bar Stools, Giacometti
By Diego Giacometti
Located in New York, NY
Three French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical solid bronze bar stools design based on Diego
Category
Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars
H 36 in W 15 in D 17.5 in
French Mid-Century Modern Steel Consoles with Glass Top, 1970s
Located in MIlano, IT
French Mid-Century Modern steel consoles with glass top, 1970s
Pair of steel consoles from Paris
Category
Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Steel
Pair French Mid-Century Modern Style Marine Nightstands / End Tables
Located in New York, NY
Elegant pair of French Mid-Century Modern style Marine nightstands / commodes / chest of drawers
Category
Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern End Tables
Materials
Brass
1950's French Mid Century Modern Gilt Tole Full Floral Detail Chandelier
Located in Opa Locka, FL
1950's French Mid Century Modern Gilt Metal in flral form. Gilt palmettes. This chandelier is in
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical Brass Pineapple Table Lamp Maison Charles
By Maison Charles et Fils
Located in New York, NY
Iconic solid brass or bronze French Mid-Century Modern table lamp or desk lamp in the form of
Category
Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
H 31 in W 5 in D 5 in
French Mid-Century Modern Art Deco Style Glass Centerpiece Bowl
Located in Tarry Town, NY
Envelop yourself in the timeless allure of French Mid-Century Modern Art Deco Style with this
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Glass
Materials
Glass
1960's French Mid Century Modern Gilt Floral Form Chandelier with Floral Shades
Located in Opa Locka, FL
French Mid Century Modern 1960's Gilt Metal "Wheat" Floral Form Chandelier with Art Glass Floral
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
French Mid-Century Modern, Three Arm Sconces, Brass, Crystal, France, 1950s
Located in Stamford, CT
French Mid-Century Modern, Three Arm Sconces, Brass, Crystal, France, 1950s
Pair of modern sconces
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Crystal, Brass
H 23 in W 12.5 in D 11 in
French Mid-Century Modern, Five Arm Sconces, Brass, Crystal, France, 1950s
Located in Stamford, CT
French Mid-Century Modern, Five Arm Sconces, Brass, Crystal, France, 1950s
Pair of modern sconces
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Crystal, Brass
4 French Midcentury Modern Neoclassical Gilt Iron Sconces, Gilbert Poillerat
By Gilbert Poillerat
Located in New York, NY
Two pairs of French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical, gilt iron wall lights in the style of Gilbert
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Iron
H 9.75 in W 10.38 in D 4 in
1950s French Mid Century Modern Gilt Floral in Bloom Ceiling Flush Mount Fixture
By Maison Jansen
Located in Opa Locka, FL
1950s French Mid Century Modern Gilt Metal Blooming Flower Ceiling Flush Mount Fixture. Attrib
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Metal
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Bronze Table / Desk Lamps
By Paul Evans
Located in Stamford, CT
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Bronze Table / Desk Lamps
A pair of sculptural cast
Category
Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
French Mid-Century Modern Wrought Iron Floor Lamp Attributed Disderot
By Pierre Disderot
Located in New York, NY
Elegant, sculptural French Mid-Century Modern enameled wrought iron floor lamp attributed to
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Wrought Iron
French Mid-Century Modern Holophane Glass Shade & Bronze Sconces Wall Light Pair
By Holophane
Located in Miami, FL
A pair of French Mid-Century Modern Holophane glass shades and bronze sconces, wall lights, flush
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Bronze
1970's French Mid Century Modern Brutalist Brass Floral Form Ceiling Flush Mount
Located in Opa Locka, FL
1970's French Mid Century Modern/ Brutalist Brass Floral Form Ceiling Flush Mount Fixture
Category
Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount
Materials
Brass
H 10 in W 18 in D 18 in
Stylish Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Sycamore Two-Drawer Bedside Cabinets
Located in San Francisco, CA
A stylish pair of French Mid-Century Modern sycamore two-drawer bedside cabinets; each good quality
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
H 24 in W 17 in D 12 in
Vintage A. Ravenel Paris French Mid Century Modern Brass Magazine Rack Stand
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage A. Ravenel Paris French Mid Century Modern Brass Magazine Holder Stand. Item features an
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Magazine Racks and Stands
Materials
Brass
H 26 in W 21.5 in D 10 in
Pair of Ivory French Mid-Century Modern Wool Rugs
Located in Milan, IT
This pair of rugs is characteristic of the French Mid-Century Modern style developed after World
Category
Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Western European Rugs
Materials
Wool
Roger Lecal French Mid-Century Modern Resin Floor Mirror for Chabrieres & Co.
By Roger Lecal
Located in Miami, FL
French Mid-Century Modern stand lipstick mirror in cream finished resin core with inset elliptical
Category
Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Floor Mirrors and Full-Lengt...
Materials
Mirror, Resin
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Stools or Benches in Goat Skin
Located in New York, NY
Exotic pair of French Mid-Century Modern stools or benches in a sober, tripod form, covered
Category
Vintage 1940s French Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Goatskin
Pair French Mid Century Modern Gilt/ White Enamel Ceramic Star Form Wall Sconces
Located in Opa Locka, FL
Pair French Mid Century Modern Gilt/ White Enamel Star Form Wall Sconces. These sconces are marked
Category
Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Ceramic
H 12 in W 5 in D 12 in
Maison Barbier French Mid-Century Modern Two Spheres Table Lamps, 1970, Pair
By Maison Barbier
Located in Miami, FL
Pair of polished steel French Mid-Century Modern two spheres table lamps by Maison Barbier from the
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Steel
Signed Pietri French Mid-Century Modern Framed Oil Painting Resting Nude Woman
Located in Miami, FL
Signed Pietri French Mid-Century Modern framed oil painting resting nude woman.
Traditionally
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Paintings
Materials
Canvas, Wood, Paint
H 21 in W 29.25 in D 1.5 in
French Mid-Century Modern Ottoman or Bench Attributed To Pierre Paulin
By Roche Bobois, Gio Ponti, Pierre Paulin, Maison Jansen, Artifort
Located in Houston, TX
French Mid-Century Modern Ottoman Or Bench Attributed To Pierre Paulin.
Unusual French modern
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Ottomans and Poufs
Materials
Bouclé, Walnut
H 17.5 in W 22.25 in D 22.25 in
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Enameled Steel Floor Lamps, 1970
Located in New York, NY
Pair of French Mid-Century Modern stainless steel standing lamps that have been enameled in gun
Category
Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal, Steel, Stainless Steel
French Mid-Century Modern Neoclassical, Gilt Iron Coffee Table by Maison Ramsay
By Maison Ramsay
Located in New York, NY
Elegant, timeless French Mid-Century Modern neoclassical, gilt iron coffee table by Maison Ramsay
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Wrought Iron
H 15.75 in W 39.38 in D 19.5 in
1960's French Mid Century Modern Gilt Tole 6 Light Flush Mount Ceiling Fixture
By Maison Charles
Located in Opa Locka, FL
1960's French Mid Century Modern Gilt Tole Floral Form 6 Light Ceiling Flush Mount Fixture
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Metal
Pair French Mid Century Modern Brass & Enamel Table Lamps, Hand Painted Shades
Located in New York, NY
Elegant Pair of French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps with the table lamp bases in maroon hand
Category
Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Two Large French Mid-Century Modern Lucite Consoles or Sofa Tables
Located in New York, NY
2 Elegant French Mid-Century Modern sofa tables or consoles in Lucite / Plexiglass with stainless
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Console Tables
Materials
Lucite
French Mid-Century Modern Iron Umbrella Stand or Waste Basket, Jacques Adnet
By Jacques Adnet
Located in New York, NY
French Mid-Century Modern umbrella stand or trash / wastebasket composed of black enameled
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands
Materials
Steel, Iron
H 22.5 in W 14.38 in D 7.25 in
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French Mid Century Modern For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal French mid century modern for your home. Frequently made of metal, wood and brass, every French mid century modern was constructed with great care. There are 28656 variations of the antique or vintage French mid century modern you’re looking for, while we also have 921 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer French mid century modern, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A French mid century modern, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Scandinavian Modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. You’ll likely find more than one French mid century modern that is appealing in its simplicity, but Charlotte Perriand, Guillerme et Chambron and Maison Jansen produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a French Mid Century Modern?
Prices for a French mid century modern can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $1 and can go as high as $1,228,234, while the average can fetch as much as $2,836.
A Close Look at Mid-Century Modern Furniture
Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, 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.
ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Emerged during the mid-20th century
- Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
- A heyday of innovation in postwar America
- Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
- A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
- Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
- Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
- Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
- Promotion of functionality
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Charles and Ray Eames
- Eero Saarinen
- Milo Baughman
- Florence Knoll
- Harry Bertoia
- Isamu Noguchi
- George Nelson
- Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa
ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS
The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.
Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer.
Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.
The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by legendary manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.
As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.
Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.
As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.
Questions About French Mid Century Modern
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during 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. - Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.
Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.
Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively.
Knoll became a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.
Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs. - Is Mondrian mid century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most 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.
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- Is mid-century modern timeless?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024Yes, 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- Is Art Deco mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.
- 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019The defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture design include simplicity, an emphasis on organic forms, clean lines and a mix of both natural and man-made materials. The mid-century modern style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is used to describe the work of furniture designers who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Both neutral tones and bold Pop art colors can typically be found in mid-century modern interiors, which usually include light-filled spaces. An integration of floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant access to the outdoors renders prominent a connection with nature, which owes in part to the ideas of celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an inspiration for mid-century furniture designers. Popular mid-century modern designers include Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and others. Find vintage mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
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Jochum Rodgers Has Long Brought the Best of 20th-Century Design to Berlin and Beyond
Opened by Hans-Peter Jochum some 40 years ago, the pioneering gallery specializes in mid-century gems but also spotlights contemporary pieces by European artists and makers.
A Guide to Herman Miller’s Most Iconic Furniture
The prolific manufacturer has partnered with many of the world’s top designers since opening its doors in 1923. Here are some of the company’s greatest hits, which helped transform the American home and office.
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