Rare Mid Century Modern
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Rare Mid-Century Modern Leather Elephant, 1960s
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
Rare Mid-Century Modern Leather Elephant, 1960s
The proportions are wonderfully genuine, the horse
Category
Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures
Materials
Leather
Rare Mid Century Modern Teak Danish sideboard, 1960s
By Vintage Specialties
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Rare Mid Century Modern Danish teak sideboard, 1960s
Design year: 1960s
Dimensions:
45 D x 205
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Teak
Rare Mid-Century Modern Italian Travertine Coffee Table, circa 1970
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A rare Mid-Century Modern Italian travertine coffee table. The top has turned corners and is
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Travertine
Rare Mid-Century Modern Tambor Door Cabinet by Greta Grossman
By Greta Magnusson Grossman
Located in Buffalo, NY
Rare Mid-Century Modern Tambor door cabinet by Greta Grossman, nice original condition. Features
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Cabinets
Materials
Iron
Rare Mid Century Modern Danish rosewood Sideboard with drawers, 1950s
By Vintage Specialties
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Rare Mid Century Modern Danish Rosewood /Teak Sideboard 1950s
Design year: 1950s
Dimensions:
46
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Rosewood
H 17.72 in W 34.26 in D 18.12 in
Beautiful rare Mid Century Modern Rotaflex Tripod table lamp
By Heifetz Rotaflex
Located in München, DE
Very rare Mid Century Modern Rotaflex table lamp with metal tripod frame.
Beautiful design, yellow
Category
Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Beautiful and Rare Mid-Century Modern Plexiglass Ceiling Lamp
Located in München, DE
Beautiful and rare Mid-Century Modern plexiglass ceiling lamp.
Great interesting 1950s design
Category
Vintage 1950s European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
A rare mid century modern sideboard with round wooden pulls, circa 1960s
Located in Houston, TX
A rare mid century modern sideboard with round wooden pulls, circa 1960s. Maker is unknown
Category
Vintage 1960s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Teak
Rare Mid-Century Modern Daum Nancy France Art Deco Smoke Grey Glass Centerpiece
By Daum
Located in Roslyn, NY
A rare Mid-Century Modern Daum Nancy France "Aquarium" Art Deco smoke grey glass centerpiece bowl
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls
Materials
Art Glass
Very Rare Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamp with Five Glass Shades, 1950s Italy
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
Very rare Mid-Century Modern floor lamp with five glass shades, 1950s Italy
Fully functional
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Brass, Metal
Rare Mid-Century Modern Butterfly chair by Inge & Luciano Rubino, 1963
By Sorø Stolefabrik, Inge & Luciano Rubino
Located in Berlin, DE
Rare Mid-Century Modern Butterfly chair by Inge & Luciano Rubino, 1963
This chair was designed in
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Faux Leather, Teak
H 31.89 in W 20.87 in D 18.12 in
Rare Mid Century Modern German oak Sideboard by WHB Möbel, 1970s
By WHB furniture
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Rare Mid Century Modern German oak Sideboard by WHB Möbel, 1970s
Made in Germany by WHB Möbel
Category
Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Metal
Rare Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps by WKR Germany with Plexiglass Lampshade
By WKR Leuchten
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
Rare Mid-Century Modern table lamps by WKR Offenbach Germany.
Original condition and fully
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
H 8.27 in W 4.73 in D 7.88 in
Extraordinary Rare Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stand in String Helix Design
Located in München, DE
Exceptional rare Mid-Century Modern umbrella stand.
Very elegant minimalist string spiral design
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands
Materials
Metal, Brass, Iron
Rare Mid Century Modern 'Scudo' wallight by Gabriella Crespi (1922-2017)
By Gabriella Crespi
Located in London, GB
Rare Mid Century Modern 'Scudo' wallight by Gabriella Crespi. This stylish wallight is signed on
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces
Materials
Brass
H 23.63 in W 15.75 in D 6.3 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Tulip Base Marble Coffee Table by Honsel, Germany, 1960s
By Honsel
Located in Munich, DE
Amazing, elegant and rare Mid-Century Modern tulip base coffee table or sofa table. Designed and
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Marble, Aluminum
H 21.26 in Dm 39.57 in
Rare Mid Century modern Poul Hundevad Rocking Chair
By Poul Hundevad
Located in Weesp, NL
Poul Hundevad rare mid century modern rocking chair
Extremely rare oak and canvas 1950s safari
Category
Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Canvas, Oak
Rare Mid Century Modern Lightolier Fiberglass Desk Lamp Gerald Thurston 1950s
By Lightolier, Gerald Thurston
Located in Peoria, AZ
RARE & FABULOUS!
MID CENTURY MODERN
GERALD THURSTON
FIBERGLASS SHADE
MINIMALIST DESK LAMP
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Rare! Mid Century Modern Lightolier Twin Articulating Lamp Gerald Thurston 1955
By Gerald Thurston
Located in Peoria, AZ
RARE & FABULOUS!
MID CENTURY MODERN
GERALD THURSTON
TWIN FIBERGLASS SHADE
ARTICULATING DESK LAMP
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 25 in W 16 in D 16 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern MCM Pottery Vase, Jar with Lid Signed "Beth Salin 1970"
Located in Swedesboro, NJ
This rare Mid-Century Modern MCM pottery vase, jar with lid signed "Beth Salin 1970" is truly
Category
Late 20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Jars
Materials
Pottery
H 5.75 in W 4 in D 4 in
Stunning Rare Mid-Century Modern Brass Umbrella Stand
Located in München, DE
Very elegant extraordinary Mid-Century Modern umbrella stand made of brass and with a cast iron
Category
Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands
Materials
Brass, Iron
Beautiful rare Mid Century Modern brass table lamp
Located in München, DE
Beautiful large Mid Century Modern brass table lamp.
The screen is infinitely adjustable. Very
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Charlotte Perriand Berger Stool Authentic & Rare Mid-Century Modern
By Charlotte Perriand
Located in Zürich, CH
authentic mid-century objects. The owner of the gallery picks each piece on his own. We buy all objects
Category
Mid-20th Century French Modern Chairs
Materials
Elm
Extraordinary beautiful rare Mid Century Modern brass umbrella stand
Located in München, DE
Very elegant, extraordinary Mid Century Modern umbrella stand made of brass and heavy base made of
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Umbrella Stands
Materials
Brass, Iron
Very Rare Mid-Century Modern Sideboard / Credenza by 't Woonhuys of Amsterdam
By 't Woonhuys
Located in Lisse, NL
Rare Mid-Century Modern, oak and cherry wood, six doors and three drawers cabinet.
This rare
Category
Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Iron, Brass
Free Shipping
H 51 in W 63 in D 17.7 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Massive Brass Table Lamp, 1960s
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
Elegant, solid brass table lamp from the 1960s. Beautiful patina and lighter traces of use.
Formed from one piece.
The total height is 77cm, the lamp foot measures 48cm. The to...
Category
Vintage 1970s French Hollywood Regency Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
1970s Rare Mid-Century Modern Ceramic Italian Jug by Bertoncello
By Bertoncello
Located in Aci Castello, IT
artistic approach to ceramics during the mid-20th century. Bertoncello's ceramics were known for their
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic
Charlotte Perriand High Berger Stool Authentic & Rare Mid-Century Modern
By Charlotte Perriand
Located in Zürich, CH
.
Authenticity: We sell only authentic mid-century objects. The owner of the gallery picks each piece on his own
Category
Mid-20th Century French Modern Chairs
Materials
Elm
Rare Mid Century Modern Czech Kubism Lounge Elm Easy Chairs
By Miroslav Navratil
Located in Munich, Bavaria
These rare and stunning Mid century Modern Easy chairs comes from Czech /Prague.
The designer and
Category
Vintage 1950s Czech Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Elm, Fabric
Charlotte Perriand Three-Legged Stool Authentic & Rare Mid-Century Modern
By Charlotte Perriand
Located in Zürich, CH
Charlotte Perriand counts as one of the masters of French modernist design together with Le Corbusier, Jean Prouvé or Pierre Jeanneret. Her works are highly valued until present time...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Modern Chairs
Materials
Pine
H 18.12 in W 15.75 in D 15.75 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern sputnik chandelier by Stilnovo. Italy 1950s
By Stilnovo
Located in Catania, CT
Fair original vintage condition with trace of age and use for this rare Stilnovo chandelier
Category
Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Brass
Rare Mid Century Modern Rattan 2 Seater Hanging Swing Loveseat
Located in Hopewell, NJ
Rare striking rattan hanging swing for two, beautifully constructed with orignal steel hooks and
Category
Vintage 1970s Philippine Organic Modern Loveseats
Materials
Rattan
Rare Mid-Century Modern Italian Murano Venetian Iridescent Lamps Cenedese, Pair
By Cenedese
Located in Roslyn, NY
Wonderful pair Mid-Century Modern Italian Murano Venetian Iridescent and Amber tone jeweling lamps
Category
20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Stunning & Stylish & Rare Mid-Century Modern 3 Light Glass & Teakwood Chandelier
Located in Antwerp, BE
Wonderful Mid-Century Modern ceiling light with teakwood and art glass shades.
This vintage
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Opaline Glass, Wood
H 24.81 in Dm 18.51 in
Rare! Mid Century Modern Fiberglass Lightolier Wall Lamp Sconce Gerald Thurston
By Gerald Thurston
Located in Peoria, AZ
fixtures. This fixture is the beautiful Ebony!
This design defined mid century modern lighting ergonomics
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 11 in W 18 in D 18 in
Pair of Rare Mid-Century Modern Armchairs, Fully Refurbished, Yugoslavia, 1950s
Located in Beograd, RS
In this listing you will find a pair of very rare, fully refurbished Mid-Century Modern Armchair
Category
Vintage 1950s Slovenian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Jacquard, Oak
H 29.53 in W 24.41 in D 25.99 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Magnus Stephensen Armchairs for Fritz Hansen 1930s
By Fritz Hansen, Magnus Stephensen
Located in Copenhagen, DK
MAGNUS STEPHENSEN & FRITZ HANSEN
SCANDINAVIAN MODERN
A beautiful pair of armchairs by Danish
Category
Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs
Materials
Seagrass, Beech
H 29.93 in W 22.45 in D 25.99 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern ceramic and brass chandelier by Leoncillo Leonardi.
By Leoncillo Leonardi
Located in Catania, CT
Mid-Century Sculptural chandelier composed of a ceramic painted cylinder and 12 brass arms with
Category
Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Rare Mid-Century Modern Floor Ashtray by Harald Buchrucker, Germany, 1950s
By Harald Buchrucker
Located in Munich, DE
Extremely rare, elegant and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern hammered copper floor or standing
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays
Materials
Copper
Rare Mid-Century Modern Planter Designed by Carlo Cocco for Eternit
By Eternit
Located in Doornspijk, NL
Very rare flower pot with four points designed by Carlo Cocco in 1959, during the competition for
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Planters and Jardinieres
Materials
Cement
Rare Mid Century Modern Crowfoot Floor Lamp by Vereinigte Werkstätten 1950s
By Vereinigte Werkstätten München
Located in Munich, DE
Extremely rare & highly decorative Mid-Century Modern crowfoot floor lamp. Manufactured by
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
Extremely Rare Mid Century Modern Counterweight Brass Pendant Lamp Germany 1950s
Located in Munich, DE
Extremely rare, lovely and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern perforated brass pendant lamp
Category
Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
H 4.34 in Dm 5.75 in
Stunning & Stylish & Rare Mid-Century Modern 3 Light Glass & Teakwood Chandelier
Located in Lisse, NL
Wonderful Mid-Century Modern ceiling light with teakwood and art glass shades.
This vintage light
Category
Mid-20th Century European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Free Shipping
H 41 in Dm 27 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Paul McCobb for Directional Sculptural Cubist Sofa
By Paul McCobb
Located in St. Louis, MO
Rare Paul McCobb for Directional sculptural cubist sofa or settee. Legs have been refinished, older
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Upholstery
H 32 in W 76.5 in D 32 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Multi-Colored Lucite Pendant Lamp Germany 1960s
Located in Munich, DE
Extremely rare and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern multi-colored pendant lamp or hanging light
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass, Metal
Rare Mid-Century Modern Cityscape Paul Evans "L" Shaped Coffee Table
By Paul Evans
Located in Brooklyn, NY
A stunning "L" shaped cityscape design signed by Paul Evans. This elegant vintage modern coffee
Category
Vintage 1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Chrome
H 15.25 in W 48.25 in D 60.25 in
Rare Mid Century Modern Chandelier with Opaline Glass Balls, Italy 1960s
Located in Beograd, RS
In this listing you will find a beautiful and elegant Mid Century Modern Chandelier done in white
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass, Iron
H 27.56 in W 17.72 in D 17.72 in
Rare Mid Century Modern Stilnovo Desk Lamp Model 8050 Metalarte 1960s
By Stilnovo, Metalarte
Located in Munich, DE
Extremely rare and elegant Mid-Century Modern desk light or table lamp. Model 8050. Adjustable
Category
Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Guglielmo Ulrich Rare Mid-Century Modern Italian Walnut Bar Cabinet, 1940s
By Guglielmo Ulrich
Located in Puglia, Puglia
between the 1940s and 1950s, a very rare piece. In excellent condition, original Ar.Ca label.
In 1930
Category
Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dry Bars
Materials
Brass
H 61.03 in W 106.3 in D 19.3 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Vintage Scandinavian Teak Wood Modular Unit, 1960s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
furniture systems. The wall unit perfectly match the aesthetics of the Scandinavian era of Mid-Century
Category
Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Shelves
Materials
Wood, Teak
H 68.9 in W 65.75 in D 14.97 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley Dunbar Walnut Corner Bookcase Console 38"
By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley
Located in Dayton, OH
Mid-Century Modern Edward Wormley for Dunbar Furniture corner bookcase record console. Made of
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Bookcases
Materials
Metal
H 38 in W 27 in D 27 in
Rare Mid Century Modern Walnut Dresser by Edward Wormley for Dunbar, c1950s
By Dunbar Furniture, Edward Wormley
Located in Chino Hills, CA
Behold an exceptional treasure of design history, a vintage mid-century modern walnut dresser
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers
Materials
Metal
Rare Mid Century Modern FIBERGLASS REFLECTOR DESK LAMP! BILL LAM STUDIO 1950s
By Bill Lam
Located in Peoria, AZ
A PURIST'S DREAM.
MID CENTURY MODERN
MOLDED FIBERGLASS
ARTICULATING SHADE
REFLECTOR DESK LAMP
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
H 20 in W 14 in D 14 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Wenge Wood Organic-Shaped Boomerang Custom Desk, 1960s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
furniture is the quintessence of Mid-Century Modern design and probably has been made-up for special order
Category
Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Wenge
H 31.5 in W 70.87 in D 27.56 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Candlestick No 3433 by Carl Auböck Austria 1937
By Werkstätte Carl Auböck
Located in Munich, DE
A real collectors item. Extremely rare and lovely Mid-Century Modern candlestick. Model No 3433
Category
Vintage 1930s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Candlesticks
Materials
Brass
H 1.97 in W 4.93 in D 2.17 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Copper Pendant Lamp or Hanging Light 1960s
Located in Munich, DE
Rare, elegant and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern perforated copper pendant lamp or hanging
Category
Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Copper
H 11.03 in Dm 14.38 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Rotaflex Pendant Lamp by Yasha Heifetz USA 1960s
By Yasha Heifetz, Heifetz Rotaflex
Located in Munich, DE
Rare and lovely Mid-Century Modern pendant lamp or hanging light. Designed by Yasha Heifetz for
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Plastic
Rare Mid-Century Modern Cocktail Tray Table "Tempo Group" by Tony Paul
By Tony Paul
Located in Buffalo, NY
Rare and unusual Mid-Century Modern double cocktail tray table "Tempo Group" by Tony Paul, have
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Tray Tables
Materials
Iron
Rare Mid-Century Modern Edmond J Spence Checkerboard Sideboard Chest of Drawers
By Edmond J. Spence
Located in GB
American designer was created in the mid-20th century. Edmond Spence’s piece was also made of walnut wood
Category
Vintage 1960s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Sideboards
Materials
Walnut
H 32.29 in W 78.15 in D 20.08 in
Rare Mid-Century Modern Scandinavian Copper Pendant Lamp or Hanging Light 1960s
Located in Munich, DE
Rare and highly decorative Mid-Century Modern pendant lamp or hanging light. Designed
Category
Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Copper
H 11.03 in Dm 16.54 in
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Rare Mid Century Modern For Sale on 1stDibs
Find many varieties of an authentic rare mid century modern available at 1stDibs. A rare mid century modern — often made from metal, wood and brass — can elevate any home. If you’re shopping for a rare mid century modern, we have 9298 options in-stock, while there are 12 modern editions to choose from as well. Your living room may not be complete without a rare mid century modern — find older editions for sale from the 18th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. A rare mid century modern, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern or Modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. You’ll likely find more than one rare mid century modern that is appealing in its simplicity, but Herman Miller, Edward Wormley and George Nelson produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a Rare Mid Century Modern?
The average selling price for a rare mid century modern at 1stDibs is $4,009, while they’re typically $1 on the low end and $250,000 for the highest priced.
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 Rare 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 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.
- 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.
- 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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