Skip to main content

George Nelson Furniture

American, 1908-1986

Architect, designer, and writer George Nelson was a central figure in the mid-century American modernist design movement; and his thoughts influenced not only the furniture we live with, but also how we live.

Nelson came to design via journalism and literature. Upon receiving his bachelor’s degree in architecture from Yale in 1931, he won the Prix de Rome fellowship, and spent his time in Europe writing magazine articles that helped bring stateside recognition to Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Gio Ponti, Le Corbusier and other canonical modernist architects.

In the 1940s, Nelson wrote texts that suggested such now-commonplace ideas as open-plan houses, storage walls and family rooms. D.J. De Pree, the owner of the furniture maker Herman Miller, was so impressed by Nelson that in 1944 — following the sudden death of Gilbert Rohde, who had introduced the firm to modern design in the 1930s — he invited Nelson to join the company as its design director. There Nelson’s curatorial design talents came to the fore.

To Herman Miller he brought such eminent creators as Charles and Ray Eames, Isamu Noguchi, and the textile and furniture designer Alexander Girard. Thanks to a clever contract, at the same time as he directed Herman Miller he formed a New York design company, George Nelson & Associates, that sold furniture designs to the Michigan firm. Nelson's studio also sold designs for clocks to the Howard Miller Clock Company, a manufacturer that was initially part of Herman Miller before it became an offshoot that was helmed by Howard Miller, D.J. De Pree's brother-in-law.

Nelson’s New York team of designers (who were rarely individually credited) would create such iconic pieces as the Marshmallow sofa, the Coconut chair, the Ball clock, the Bubble lamp series and the many cabinets and beds that comprise the sleek Thin-Edge line.

For dedicated collectors, as well as for interior designers who look beyond “the look,” there is a “cool factor” inherent to vintage pieces from George Nelson and others. Nelson was in on it from the start, and it’s valuable to have a piece that was there with him.

But still, as is evident from the offerings from dealers on 1stDibs, in any of the designs, in any iteration whose manufacture Nelson oversaw and encouraged, there are shining elements of lightness, elegance, sophistication — and a little bit of swagger. George Nelson felt confident in his ideas about design and didn’t mind letting the world know.

to
43
369
85
440
14
366
53
1
440
14
377
41
14
186
77
28
9
1
314
303
122
91
86
403
392
22
8
7
454
454
454
285
8,809
3,916
2,535
2,229
Creator: George Nelson
George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller Home Office Desk, 1946
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Chicago, IL
George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller Home Office desk, 1946, model 4658 Desk features flip-top compartment revealing small organizer, two doors concealing three fixed shelve...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Leather, Walnut

George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller Home Office Desk, 1946
George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller Home Office Desk, 1946

George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller Home Office Desk, 1946

$8,500
8000 Series 3 Door Credenza, George Nelson, Herman Miller, 1960's
By George Nelson
Located in Culver City, CA
This George Nelson for Herman Miller 8000 Series credenza features not two, but three sliding doors—a configuration so unusual we couldn't find another example online. At first, we a...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

8000 Series 3 Door Credenza, George Nelson, Herman Miller, 1960's
8000 Series 3 Door Credenza, George Nelson, Herman Miller, 1960's

8000 Series 3 Door Credenza, George Nelson, Herman Miller, 1960's

$5,770
George Nelson Platform Slat Bench for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Elevate your space with this timeless George Nelson Platform Slat Bench, a celebrated icon of mid-century modern design. Originally introduced in 1946, this minimalist masterpiece se...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Wood

George Nelson Platform Slat Bench for Herman Miller
George Nelson Platform Slat Bench for Herman Miller

George Nelson Platform Slat Bench for Herman Miller

$1,499
Original George Nelson Pretzel Chair, Leather
By George Nelson
Located in Miami, FL
Rare and beautiful ''Pretzel'' ArmChair, laminated wood and dark brown leather seat. Manufactured in the 1984/1986 in Italy by ICF De Padova. Price is for one chair. Pair available.
Category

1980s Italian Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Leather, Plywood

Original George Nelson Pretzel Chair, Leather
Original George Nelson Pretzel Chair, Leather

Original George Nelson Pretzel Chair, Leather

$2,240 Sale Price / item
20% Off
George Nelson Walnut Nightstands with White Laminate tops
By George Nelson
Located in Asbury Park, NJ
A beautiful pair of 1950's nightstands. Designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Walnut casework with a single drawer over a single shelf, finished with a white laminate top and ...
Category

1950s Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Walnut

George Nelson Walnut Nightstands with White Laminate tops
George Nelson Walnut Nightstands with White Laminate tops

George Nelson Walnut Nightstands with White Laminate tops

$2,495 / set
Mid Century George Nelson for Herman Miller Slatted Bench Maple Blonde
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Beautiful mid century George Nelson Herman Miller slatted bench with Amazing Patina. This bench is 72.25" Long Slatted coffee...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Maple, Lacquer

Mid Century George Nelson for Herman Miller Slatted Bench Maple Blonde
Mid Century George Nelson for Herman Miller Slatted Bench Maple Blonde

Mid Century George Nelson for Herman Miller Slatted Bench Maple Blonde

$3,250
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Diamond Clock
By George Nelson
Located in Dronten, NL
Beautiful Diamond Clock designed by George Nelson & Associates, and manufactured by Vitra. In excellent working condition, working on an AA battery. The George Nelson Diamond Clock ...
Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Diamond Clock
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Diamond Clock

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Diamond Clock

$795
Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Roll Top Action Office Desk by George Nelson
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Lafayette, IN
This is a wonderful early example of the Action Office Roll Top desk by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Desk features: Walnut roll top (4) action drawers Ebonized black side panels Deep inner file space Cast aluminum frame Foot rest White laminate writing surface Power outlet...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum, Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Roll Top Action Office Desk by George Nelson
Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Roll Top Action Office Desk by George Nelson

Mid-Century Modern Herman Miller Roll Top Action Office Desk by George Nelson

$2,999 Sale Price
53% Off
rare bookcase designed "css" model by george nelson for herman miller 1060
By George Nelson
Located in taranto, IT
Rare Sky/Earth modular bookcase model "CSS", designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller, 1960 composed of five height-adjustable aluminium uprights, 10 shelves, two wooden upper com...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

rare bookcase designed "css" model by george nelson for herman miller 1060
rare bookcase designed "css" model by george nelson for herman miller 1060

rare bookcase designed "css" model by george nelson for herman miller 1060

$11,788
George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal Dining Table Desk, 1960
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Vienna, AT
Unusual original dining or desk table by George Nelson for Herman Miller, mid century Dimensions are 72.04" x 40.15" x 28.15" (height) This dining table was designed by George Nels...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal Dining Table Desk, 1960
George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal Dining Table Desk, 1960

George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal Dining Table Desk, 1960

$3,800
Pr. Mid Century George Nelson Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Bachelors Chests
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in New York, NY
Exquisite matched pair of George Nelson designed four drawer Thin Edge dressers, executed in Rosewood, for Herman Miller circa 1950's. These chests are in very good, original, clean...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Pr. Mid Century George Nelson Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Bachelors Chests
Pr. Mid Century George Nelson Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Bachelors Chests

Pr. Mid Century George Nelson Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Bachelors Chests

$12,000 / set
George Nelson by Herman Miller Laminated Aluminum Design 1950s Rare Desk
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Brescia, IT
Modernist Desk George Nelson by Hermann Miller 1950 Laminated wood, aluminum base Rare model.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson by Herman Miller Laminated Aluminum Design 1950s Rare Desk
George Nelson by Herman Miller Laminated Aluminum Design 1950s Rare Desk

George Nelson by Herman Miller Laminated Aluminum Design 1950s Rare Desk

$3,608
George Nelson Mid Century Cane and Walnut Full Headboard for Herman Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A mid century walnut thin framed full size headboard with a natural woven cane insert . Designed by George Nelson for the Herman Miller Furniture company model # 5547 . The headboard...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson Mid Century Cane and Walnut Full Headboard for Herman Miller
George Nelson Mid Century Cane and Walnut Full Headboard for Herman Miller

George Nelson Mid Century Cane and Walnut Full Headboard for Herman Miller

$1,400
George Nelson, Cigar Wall Sconce, Plastic, Walnut, Nickel, Herman Miller, 1952
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in High Point, NC
An early-production Cigar Bubble wall sconce in plastic polymer, walnut and brushed nickel; designed by George Nelson and produced by Herman Miller, USA, 1952. Variable dimensions...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Nickel

George Nelson, Cigar Wall Sconce, Plastic, Walnut, Nickel, Herman Miller, 1952
George Nelson, Cigar Wall Sconce, Plastic, Walnut, Nickel, Herman Miller, 1952

George Nelson, Cigar Wall Sconce, Plastic, Walnut, Nickel, Herman Miller, 1952

$5,900
Vintage 1949 Mid-Century Modern Custom L-Shaped Office Desk by George Nelson
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Lafayette, IN
This remarkable piece is a one-off desk/wardrobe/bar/bookcase/storage cabinet custom-designed by George Nelson in 1949 to match his Basic Cabinet Series (BCS) for Herman Miller. The desk was made specifically for a client in the Promontory Apartment Building in Chicago designed by Nelson's associate, and world-renowned architect, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. The entire apartment was outfitted in pieces from George Nelson's Basic Cabinet Series for Herman Miller that sat, untouched for nearly 70 years in their original setting! In addition to two aluminium sconces, this piece also features hidden, fluorescent lighting mounted in the upper canopy as a clever solution to Mies van der Rohe's lack of ceiling fixtures. This is a gorgeous, grandiose, and extremely rare piece of design history that will instantly outfit an entire office in striking style! Features: Desk: - Book-matched walnut veneer - Built-in Bar - Built in coat closet/wardrobe - Dual aluminum sconces - Hidden, indirect fluorescent lighting - Silver-plated Herman Miller hardware - Dual "floating" book shelves - Tapered, cantilevered peninsula desk...
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Vintage 1949 Mid-Century Modern Custom L-Shaped Office Desk by George Nelson
Vintage 1949 Mid-Century Modern Custom L-Shaped Office Desk by George Nelson

Vintage 1949 Mid-Century Modern Custom L-Shaped Office Desk by George Nelson

$14,000 Sale Price
60% Off
Vintage Walnut George Nelson 5 Drawer Dresser for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Beautiful Walnut Basic Cabinet Series 5 Drawer Dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller. features the uncommon cupcake drawer pulls. the drawer boxes have been remade and outfit...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Walnut

Vintage Walnut George Nelson 5 Drawer Dresser for Herman Miller
Vintage Walnut George Nelson 5 Drawer Dresser for Herman Miller

Vintage Walnut George Nelson 5 Drawer Dresser for Herman Miller

$3,060
"Modular Seating" Group by George Nelson Herman Miller, Mid-Century, 1960s
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Rosendahl, DE
This seating group from George Nelson’s "Modular Seating" series for Herman Miller combines timeless design with exceptional functionality. The flexible arrangement of elements allow...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Steel

"Modular Seating" Group by George Nelson Herman Miller, Mid-Century, 1960s
"Modular Seating" Group by George Nelson Herman Miller, Mid-Century, 1960s

"Modular Seating" Group by George Nelson Herman Miller, Mid-Century, 1960s

$8,283
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Herman Miller Hairpin Leg Daybed Sofa
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Dayton, OH
Mid century modern George Nelson for Herman Miller Case Study daybed / sofa / couch / chaise lounge featuring iron hairpin legs with pine back suppor...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Herman Miller Hairpin Leg Daybed Sofa
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Herman Miller Hairpin Leg Daybed Sofa

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Herman Miller Hairpin Leg Daybed Sofa

$4,000 Sale Price
20% Off
George Nelson Black Marshmallow Sofa for Herman Miller Mid Century 1950s
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration an Original George Nelson Black Marshmallow Sofa for Herman Miller Maker signed Iconic mid century sofa, a perfect addition for your home, office or business. ...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson Black Marshmallow Sofa for Herman Miller Mid Century 1950s
George Nelson Black Marshmallow Sofa for Herman Miller Mid Century 1950s

George Nelson Black Marshmallow Sofa for Herman Miller Mid Century 1950s

$7,500
George Nelson Steelframe Walnut Chest for Herman Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Cincinnati, OH
An architectural styled Steelframe chest with satin black metal frame, olive green drawer side and back with white laminate top. The face of the drawer is in a well grained walnut wi...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson Steelframe Walnut Chest for Herman Miller
George Nelson Steelframe Walnut Chest for Herman Miller

George Nelson Steelframe Walnut Chest for Herman Miller

$2,600
George Nelson Walnut Spike Clock by Howard Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Cincinnati, OH
An Nelson walnut and painted white metal body spike clock with color coded minute and hour hands. An early electric model in great working condition , retains the original label and ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson Walnut Spike Clock by Howard Miller
George Nelson Walnut Spike Clock by Howard Miller

George Nelson Walnut Spike Clock by Howard Miller

$1,600
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Eye Clock
By George Nelson
Located in Dronten, NL
Beautiful Eye Clock designed by George Nelson & Associates, and manufactured by Vitra. In excellent working condition, working on an AA battery.  The George Nelson Eye Clock...
Category

Late 20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Eye Clock
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Eye Clock

Mid Century Modern George Nelson Eye Clock

$725
Rare Mid Century Modern George Nelson Orange Ball Clock Model 4755
By George Nelson
Located in Plainview, NY
An original George Nelson ( 1908- 1986) Mid Century Modern Ball Clock model 4755. This iconic clock features a distinctive and modern design with a mid-century aesthetic. The centr...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

Rare Mid Century Modern George Nelson Orange Ball Clock Model 4755
Rare Mid Century Modern George Nelson Orange Ball Clock Model 4755

Rare Mid Century Modern George Nelson Orange Ball Clock Model 4755

$2,240 Sale Price
20% Off
Mid Century Hair Pin Legs Daybed George Nelson Herman Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Original classic American modern daybed with iconic hair pin legs. Solid birch wood with zinc plated steel legs, original screws and steel springs with new firm cushion with black nu...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Steel

Mid Century Hair Pin Legs Daybed George Nelson Herman Miller
Mid Century Hair Pin Legs Daybed George Nelson Herman Miller

Mid Century Hair Pin Legs Daybed George Nelson Herman Miller

$3,000
Herman Miller Typewriter Desk Return by George Nelson
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Introducing the iconic Herman Miller typewriter desk return, a testament to the visionary design of George Nelson. This exceptional piece seamlessly combin...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

Herman Miller Typewriter Desk Return by George Nelson
Herman Miller Typewriter Desk Return by George Nelson

Herman Miller Typewriter Desk Return by George Nelson

$1,900
Scarce early/ original George Nelson Hanging "Cigar Bubble Lamp -
By George Nelson, Howard Miller
Located in Buffalo, NY
Original ,Vintage,, NOT NEW REPRODUCTION! .Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Bubble light will add a touch of softness and luminosity to any interior! Delightful cigar shape hanging p...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

Scarce early/ original George Nelson Hanging "Cigar Bubble Lamp -
Scarce early/ original George Nelson Hanging "Cigar Bubble Lamp -

Scarce early/ original George Nelson Hanging "Cigar Bubble Lamp -

$1,880
Six Foot George Nelson Classic Slat Bench 1950's Original Signed!
By George Nelson
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
A classic, original 1950's vintage George Nelson for Herman Miller slat bench. Natural finish with warm patina and ebonized legs. This is a hard to find original, retaining its foil...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Maple

Six Foot George Nelson Classic Slat Bench 1950's Original Signed!
Six Foot George Nelson Classic Slat Bench 1950's Original Signed!

Six Foot George Nelson Classic Slat Bench 1950's Original Signed!

$3,200
George Nelson for Herman Miller Executive Office Group Walnut Desk & Return
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Countryside, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller 9000 Series Mid Century Walnut Desk and Return This desk measures: 84 wide x 36 deep x 30 high, with a chair clearance of 28.75 inches The return mea...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum, Steel

George Nelson for Herman Miller Executive Office Group Walnut Desk & Return
George Nelson for Herman Miller Executive Office Group Walnut Desk & Return

George Nelson for Herman Miller Executive Office Group Walnut Desk & Return

$10,395
Mid Century Modern Sofa with Side Tables George Nelson for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Sofa with Integrated Side Tables for Herman Miller – This exquisite vintage piece, dating back to the 1950s-1960s, epitomizes the functional elegance...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Steel

Mid Century Modern Sofa with Side Tables George Nelson for Herman Miller
Mid Century Modern Sofa with Side Tables George Nelson for Herman Miller

Mid Century Modern Sofa with Side Tables George Nelson for Herman Miller

$7,262
George Nelson Marshmallow Sofa
By George Nelson
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
George Nelson Marshmallow sofa, model 5670 Manufactured by Herman Miller A great example of an iconic form.
Category

1950s American Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Chrome, Stainless Steel, Steel

George Nelson Marshmallow Sofa
George Nelson Marshmallow Sofa

George Nelson Marshmallow Sofa

$24,000
George Nelson Thin Edge Rosewood Dresser 4 Drawers
By George Nelson
Located in Seattle, WA
A George Nelson four-drawer Thin Edge rosewood dresser, circa 1955. This stunning piece has dynamic, rich rosewood graining, four drawers, original porcelain pulls, and iconic Thin E...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson Thin Edge Rosewood Dresser 4 Drawers
George Nelson Thin Edge Rosewood Dresser 4 Drawers

George Nelson Thin Edge Rosewood Dresser 4 Drawers

$5,995
George Nelson 6 Black Pretzel Chairs for ICF, 1984
By George Nelson, Herman Miller, ICF De Padova
Located in Vienna, AT
George Nelson pretzel chairs Model # 5890, manufactured for ICF (labelled) A rare set of six ''Pretzel'' armchairs with newly upholstered cushions, made from laminated wood by ICF D...
Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Velvet, Plywood

George Nelson 6 Black Pretzel Chairs for ICF, 1984
George Nelson 6 Black Pretzel Chairs for ICF, 1984

George Nelson 6 Black Pretzel Chairs for ICF, 1984

$16,900 / set
George Nelson Pedestal Side Table for Herman Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A simple and elegant pedestal side table with round top having a natural thin wood trim detail to the edge and cast meat star base . The base with foot pads to protect your floors ha...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson Pedestal Side Table for Herman Miller
George Nelson Pedestal Side Table for Herman Miller

George Nelson Pedestal Side Table for Herman Miller

$1,450
Thin Edge Walnut Dresser with Cabinet by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Dorchester, MA
This gorgeous dresser is part of George Nelson's 1950s Thin Edge collection for Herman Miller, which takes its name from the elegant, slim profile. Tapered trestle legs elevate the w...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Thin Edge Walnut Dresser with Cabinet by George Nelson for Herman Miller
Thin Edge Walnut Dresser with Cabinet by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Thin Edge Walnut Dresser with Cabinet by George Nelson for Herman Miller

$4,900
George Nelson Miniature /Jewelry Chest
By George Nelson
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Rosewood,Enameled aluminum and porcelain An early example of this form,model # 5215 Base is original to the cabinet Disc Manufacturer's label.
Category

1950s American Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Rosewood

George Nelson Miniature /Jewelry Chest
George Nelson Miniature /Jewelry Chest

George Nelson Miniature /Jewelry Chest

$11,500
Vintage George Nelson & Associates Metal Spoke Wall Clock for Howard Miller
By George Nelson, Howard Miller
Located in Raleigh, NC
Mid-Century Modern wall clock designed by George Nelson & Associates for Howard Miller Clock Company. Produced in 1955, this piece was named the 'Spoke' clock model no. 2227. Operate...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Steel

Vintage George Nelson & Associates Metal Spoke Wall Clock for Howard Miller
Vintage George Nelson & Associates Metal Spoke Wall Clock for Howard Miller

Vintage George Nelson & Associates Metal Spoke Wall Clock for Howard Miller

$2,195
Set of Four George Nelson ''Pretzel'' Armchair Made by ICF, Italy, 1984-1986
By ICF De Padova, George Nelson
Located in Chiavari, Liguria
A rare and beautiful set of four ''Pretzel'' armchairs made in laminated wood and manufactured in the 1984/1986 in Italy by ICF De Padova. Originally designed for Herman Miller in...
Category

1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Ash

Set of Four George Nelson ''Pretzel'' Armchair Made by ICF, Italy, 1984-1986
Set of Four George Nelson ''Pretzel'' Armchair Made by ICF, Italy, 1984-1986

Set of Four George Nelson ''Pretzel'' Armchair Made by ICF, Italy, 1984-1986

$14,166 / set
George Nelson for Herman Miller Five Drawer Dresser Thin Edge Rosewood c. 1950's
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in New York, NY
Iconic Mid Century masterpiece, five drawer thin edge dresser designed by recognized master of the idiom, George Nelson, for Herman Miller, circa 1950's. Part of the hard to find, a...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

George Nelson for Herman Miller Five Drawer Dresser Thin Edge Rosewood c. 1950's
George Nelson for Herman Miller Five Drawer Dresser Thin Edge Rosewood c. 1950's

George Nelson for Herman Miller Five Drawer Dresser Thin Edge Rosewood c. 1950's

$8,500
George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal/ Side Table
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Philadelphia, PA
George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal Table. Aluminum Base with a formica top and maple edge. Classic, useful design! Very clean example!
Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal/ Side Table
George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal/ Side Table

George Nelson for Herman Miller Pedestal/ Side Table

$750
George Nelson for Herman Miller - Set of Six Dining Chairs
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Chicago, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller - Set of Six Dining Chairs Includes: Two Armchairs and Four Side Chairs A timeless mid-century modern design by George Nelson, crafted for Herman Mill...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Upholstery, Walnut

George Nelson for Herman Miller - Set of Six Dining Chairs
George Nelson for Herman Miller - Set of Six Dining Chairs

George Nelson for Herman Miller - Set of Six Dining Chairs

$7,200
George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Leather and Chrome Sling Sofa
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Countryside, IL
George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Leather and Chrome Sling Sofa This sofa measures: 87 wide x 32 deep x 29 inches high, with a seat height of 17.5 and arm height of 23 inc...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Chrome

George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Leather and Chrome Sling Sofa
George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Leather and Chrome Sling Sofa

George Nelson for Herman Miller Mid Century Leather and Chrome Sling Sofa

$9,095
Early, Museum Quality Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Dallas, TX
Early production Marshmallow sofa model 5670 designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller, circa 1956. This is an early excellent (One of the best) examples of 186 ever produced betwe...
Category

Mid-20th Century American George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Steel

Early, Museum Quality Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson for Herman Miller
Early, Museum Quality Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Early, Museum Quality Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson for Herman Miller

$48,000
Comprehensive Storage System by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Dallas, TX
Early production 'CSS" - Comprehensive Storage System designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller, 1959. This system is in excellent condition with the early Herman Miller lable cons...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Comprehensive Storage System by George Nelson for Herman Miller
Comprehensive Storage System by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Comprehensive Storage System by George Nelson for Herman Miller

$18,500
George Nelson for Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Cabinet/Gentleman's Chest
By George Nelson
Located in Seattle, WA
A rare and unique George Nelson Thin Edge bar cabinet in Rosewood, with built in light box mirror and electric plug, circa 1970s. The cabinet can be used as a vanity table, with five...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Glass, Rosewood, Plywood

George Nelson for Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Cabinet/Gentleman's Chest
George Nelson for Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Cabinet/Gentleman's Chest

George Nelson for Herman Miller Rosewood Thin Edge Cabinet/Gentleman's Chest

$7,800 Sale Price / item
20% Off
Midcentury Original George Nelson & Associates Cube Sofa
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in BROOKLYN, NY
George Nelson & Associates for Herman Miller. The three-seater sofa with the original black leather upholstery with button tufting and elastic strapping set into an ebonized birch wo...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Leather, Wood, Lacquer

Midcentury Original George Nelson & Associates Cube Sofa
Midcentury Original George Nelson & Associates Cube Sofa

Midcentury Original George Nelson & Associates Cube Sofa

$3,562 Sale Price
25% Off
Vintage George Nelson Coconut Chair
By George Nelson
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
George Nelson Coconut Chair 1st series manufactured ,c. 1956 Original Orange Naugahyde Upholstery Original White Enameled Shell Foam is subtle ve...
Category

1950s American Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Naugahyde

Vintage George Nelson Coconut Chair
Vintage George Nelson Coconut Chair

Vintage George Nelson Coconut Chair

$7,500
George Nelson For Herman Miller First Generation Coconut Chair and Ottoman
By George Nelson
Located in Seattle, WA
The Coconut chair was designed in 1955 by the American architect, industrial designer, author, editor and teacher George Nelson. Unlike the later editions, the first generation has a...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

George Nelson For Herman Miller First Generation Coconut Chair and Ottoman
George Nelson For Herman Miller First Generation Coconut Chair and Ottoman

George Nelson For Herman Miller First Generation Coconut Chair and Ottoman

$5,995 / set
Vintage 3 bay Omni Wall Unit by George Nelson
By George Nelson
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Beautiful 3 bay Omni wall unit by goerge nelson. walnut with floor to ceiling aluminum uprights.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Vintage 3 bay Omni Wall Unit by George Nelson
Vintage 3 bay Omni Wall Unit by George Nelson

Vintage 3 bay Omni Wall Unit by George Nelson

$5,160
Teak Thin Edge Double Dresser with Vanity by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By George Nelson, Herman Miller
Located in Dorchester, MA
Part of the Thin Edge series that George Nelson designed for Herman Miller in the 1950s, this wonderful set comprises two dressers in a tawny walnut on either side of a suspended van...
Category

1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Porcelain, Teak

Teak Thin Edge Double Dresser with Vanity by George Nelson for Herman Miller
Teak Thin Edge Double Dresser with Vanity by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Teak Thin Edge Double Dresser with Vanity by George Nelson for Herman Miller

$7,800 / set
George Nelson Thin Edge Secretary Desk Cabinet for Herman Miller
By George Nelson
Located in Lake Worth, FL
1950s original Thin Edge secretary desk cabinet designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller. This early version features the rare black enamel stainless large pulls and tapered wood feet. Cabinet on the right includes an adjustable shelf and 2 drawers. Pull down desk is covered with black leather and features 5 drawers on the left side with original small white porcelain George Nelson drawer pulls...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Walnut

George Nelson Thin Edge Secretary Desk Cabinet for Herman Miller
George Nelson Thin Edge Secretary Desk Cabinet for Herman Miller

George Nelson Thin Edge Secretary Desk Cabinet for Herman Miller

$6,900
Vintage Black Sunburst Wall Clock by George Nelson for Howard Miller
By George Nelson, Howard Miller
Located in San Jose, CA
Classic Mid Century Modern sunburst wall clock designed by George Nelson for Howard Miller Clock Company, circa 1950's. This iconic piece is all original made with black lacquered wo...
Category

1950s American Scandinavian Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Brass

Vintage Black Sunburst Wall Clock by George Nelson for Howard Miller
Vintage Black Sunburst Wall Clock by George Nelson for Howard Miller

Vintage Black Sunburst Wall Clock by George Nelson for Howard Miller

$2,600
George Nelson Slatted Bench Model #4690
By George Nelson
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
George Nelson Birch slatted Bench An early example C.1950 Original Finish
Category

1950s American Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Birch

George Nelson Slatted Bench Model #4690
George Nelson Slatted Bench Model #4690

George Nelson Slatted Bench Model #4690

$2,150
George Nelson Mid Century Ball Clock in Brass and Wood
By George Nelson
Located in Weesp, NL
Interestingly, while nearly all of the designs that came out of George’s studio were attributed to him, many were actually designed by him and his team. Some were even designed solely by someone else working at the studio. Nelson famously recounted the story of how the Ball Clock came to life in an interview decades after it’s release: “It was one of the really funny evenings. Noguchi came by, Bucky Fuller came by, and here was Irving, and here was I, and Noguchi - who can’t keep his hands off anything - he saw we were working on clocks and started making doodles. Then Bucky sort of brushed Isamu aside. He said, ‘This is a good way to do a clock’ and made some utterly absurd thing. Everybody was taking a crack at this, pushing each other aside and making scribbles. At some point we left – we were suddenly all tired, and we’d had a little bit too much to drink – and the next morning I came back, and here was this roll of paper, and Irving and I looked at it, and somewhere in this roll, there was a ball clock. I don’t know to this day who cooked it up.” Nevertheless, whoever it was that came up with George Nelson’s designs, it’s almost certain that they would never have come to fruition if it wasn’t for George’s vision and forward-thinking approach. Can you tell me more about his clocks? George’s clocks were one of his most impressive bodies of work. In total, he and his team designed over 130 clocks in just three decades. While it is widely accepted that Irving Harper was the lead designer for the Howard Miller Clock Company at George Nelson Associates, the collection arose after two insightful observations from George: one, that people no longer used the numbers to tell the time; and two, that since most people now used their wristwatch to tell the time, interior clocks were now free to become more decorative in nature. The clocks were designed and released in batches of 8 and were initially only given numbers for names. The Sunflower Clock was simply ‘Clock 2261’, the Flock of Butterflies Clock was 'Clock 2226’, and so on. The Ball was the first clock designed by George and his team and it was followed shortly after by the Star, Sunburst, Spindle, Asterisk, Turbine, Flock of Butterflies, Eye and others. The clocks were purposefully abstract and were designed to complement the modernist furniture emerging at the time. As well as wall clocks, George’s studio also produced a series of desk clocks during that time, most notably the bubble-shaped Night Desk...
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Brass

George Nelson Mid Century Ball Clock in Brass and Wood
George Nelson Mid Century Ball Clock in Brass and Wood

George Nelson Mid Century Ball Clock in Brass and Wood

$3,308
Five Drawer Tall Chest & Two Door Cabinet Server by George Nelson for Herman
By George Nelson
Located in Dallas, TX
Five-drawer tall cabinet model 4610 with matching two-door server cabinet model 4625 designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller 1952. Both cabinets are in excellent restored condition and were in the dining room of an estate designed by architect Louis Kahn...
Category

Mid-20th Century American George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Wood

Five Drawer Tall Chest & Two Door Cabinet Server by George Nelson for Herman
Five Drawer Tall Chest & Two Door Cabinet Server by George Nelson for Herman

Five Drawer Tall Chest & Two Door Cabinet Server by George Nelson for Herman

$8,800 / set
1970’s George Nelson Rosewood Thin Edge Tall Chest
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Palm Springs, CA
We recently acquired a set of George Nelson Rosewood Thin Edge chests out of an estate. They are vintage 1970’s and still each retain the Herman Miller Label. Please see our other li...
Category

1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Rosewood

1970’s George Nelson Rosewood Thin Edge Tall Chest
1970’s George Nelson Rosewood Thin Edge Tall Chest

1970’s George Nelson Rosewood Thin Edge Tall Chest

$9,500
Five-Drawer Ribbon Mahogany Tall Dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Chicago, IL
Ribbon mahogany five-drawer dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller. M-shaped aluminium pulls and hair pin aluminium legs. Top drawer is partitioned as is the third deeper drawer.
Category

1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Five-Drawer Ribbon Mahogany Tall Dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller
Five-Drawer Ribbon Mahogany Tall Dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller

Five-Drawer Ribbon Mahogany Tall Dresser by George Nelson for Herman Miller

$3,600 Sale Price
20% Off
George Nelson - Omni System - Shelving or Wall Unit Walnut Cabinet Only - Parts
By George Nelson
Located in St. Louis, MO
Mid-Century Modern 1960s George Nelson designed for Omni Systems, this is part for a wall unit, Two Drawer File Cabinet in oiled walnut, no hardware. I nee...
Category

1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Walnut

George Nelson - Omni System - Shelving or Wall Unit Walnut Cabinet Only - Parts
George Nelson - Omni System - Shelving or Wall Unit Walnut Cabinet Only - Parts

George Nelson - Omni System - Shelving or Wall Unit Walnut Cabinet Only - Parts

$575
Vintage MCM George Nelson 5476 Lounge Chair for Herman Miller Fuchsia Fabric
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Topeka, KS
Handsome vintage MCM (a.k.a.) Mid-Century Modern 5476 lounge chair designed by George Nelson for Herman Miller. Comprised of a walnut frame and fuchsia...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

Vintage MCM George Nelson 5476 Lounge Chair for Herman Miller Fuchsia Fabric
Vintage MCM George Nelson 5476 Lounge Chair for Herman Miller Fuchsia Fabric

Vintage MCM George Nelson 5476 Lounge Chair for Herman Miller Fuchsia Fabric

$2,295
Mid Century Modern George Nelson for Herman Miller Dining Chairs in Beech #4669
By Herman Miller, George Nelson
Located in Port Jervis, NY
Fabulous set of 4 beech dining chairs by George Nelson for Herman Miller # 4669 with caned backs and period fabric for seat covers. In excellent vintage condition with minimal wear. ...
Category

1940s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Beech, Cane

Mid Century Modern George Nelson for Herman Miller Dining Chairs in Beech #4669
Mid Century Modern George Nelson for Herman Miller Dining Chairs in Beech #4669

Mid Century Modern George Nelson for Herman Miller Dining Chairs in Beech #4669

$4,995 / set
very rare no.5517 miniature chest by george nelson
By George Nelson
Located in Munich, DE
very early european version of george nelsons iconic miniature chest. made by contura for herman miller.
Category

1950s German Mid-Century Modern Vintage George Nelson Furniture

Materials

Metal

very rare no.5517 miniature chest by george nelson
very rare no.5517 miniature chest by george nelson

very rare no.5517 miniature chest by george nelson

$11,405

George Nelson furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

George Nelson furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of metal and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of George Nelson furniture, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original furniture by George Nelson were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Drexel, Widdicomb Furniture Co., and John Widdicomb. Prices for George Nelson furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $155 and can go as high as $48,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $4,411.

Creators Similar to George Nelson

Drexel
Shop All Drexel Furniture
Henredon
Shop All Henredon Furniture
Widdicomb Furniture Co.
Shop All Widdicomb Furniture Co.
John Widdicomb
Shop All John Widdicomb Furniture
Mastercraft
Shop All Mastercraft Furniture
John Stuart
Shop All John Stuart Furniture
American of Martinsville
Shop All American of Martinsville Furniture
Planner Group
Shop All Planner Group Furniture
Tommi Parzinger
Shop All Tommi Parzinger Furniture
Questions About George Nelson Furniture
  • What did George Nelson make?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    George Nelson was a furniture designer central to the mid-century modern design movement. His best-known creations are the marshmallow sofa, coconut chair, ball clock and bubble lamp series. His style included sleek, thin-edge lines on a variety of furniture still available today. Shop a range of George Nelson furniture designs on 1stDibs.
  • Why is George Nelson famous?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    George Nelson was an American designer, and for a time the lead designer for the famed Herman Miller furniture company. Nelson is often referred to as the founder of American modernist design and often associated with his more inspired pieces such as the Coconut Chair, Marshmallow Sofa and the Ball Clock. Shop a collection of George Nelson furniture designs from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
  • Where are George Nelson clocks made?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
    Modern George Nelson clocks are made in Poland. The company Vitra Designs manufactures the timepieces based on the original designs of the American designer who lived from 1908 to 1986. On 1stDibs, you can shop a selection of George Nelson clocks.
  • What are George Nelson Bubble Lamps made of?
    1 Answer
    1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    George Nelson Bubble Lamps are made of steel wires, which form a durable framework for the lamp. A plastic polymer material spread over the wires forms the shade which is translucent to give the lamp a soft glow. Inspired by Swedish lamps, these mid-century modern light fixtures are still made by the legendary furniture manufacturer Herman Miller today. Shop a range of George Nelson Bubble Lamps on 1stDibs.

More George Nelson Inspiration

Interiors Featuring George Nelson

Explore the work of the world's best interior designers
Living Room
Bedroom
Bathroom
Dining Room
Kitchen
Entry and Hall

From the Magazine

A Guide to Herman Miller’s Most Iconic Furniture

Kule and Forsyth Give Iconic Furniture a Bold Makeover with Stripes

Recently Viewed

View All

More George Nelson Furniture

George Nelson Dressers
George Nelson Coffee and Cocktail Tables
George Nelson Cabinets
George Nelson Benches
George Nelson Commodes and Chests of Drawers
George Nelson Clocks
George Nelson Desks
George Nelson Desks and Writing Tables
George Nelson Lounge Chairs
George Nelson Sofas
George Nelson Credenzas
George Nelson Bedroom Furniture
View All Popular Furniture Searches