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Modern Folk Art

MODERN STYLE

The late 19th and early 20th centuries saw sweeping social change and major scientific advances — both of which contributed to a new aesthetic: modernism. Rejecting the rigidity of Victorian artistic conventions, modernists sought a new means of expression. References to the natural world and ornate classical embellishments gave way to the sleek simplicity of the Machine Age. Architect Philip Johnson characterized the hallmarks of modernism as “machine-like simplicity, smoothness or surface [and] avoidance of ornament.”

Early practitioners of modernist design include the De Stijl (“The Style”) group, founded in the Netherlands in 1917, and the Bauhaus School, founded two years later in Germany.

Followers of both groups produced sleek, spare designs — many of which became icons of daily life in the 20th century. The modernists rejected both natural and historical references and relied primarily on industrial materials such as metal, glass, plywood, and, later, plastics. While Bauhaus principals Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe created furniture from mass-produced, chrome-plated steel, American visionaries like Charles and Ray Eames worked in materials as novel as molded plywood and fiberglass. Today, Breuer’s Wassily chair, Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona chaircrafted with his romantic partner, designer Lilly Reich — and the Eames lounge chair are emblems of progressive design and vintage originals are prized cornerstones of collections.

It’s difficult to overstate the influence that modernism continues to wield over designers and architects — and equally difficult to overstate how revolutionary it was when it first appeared a century ago. But because modernist furniture designs are so simple, they can blend in seamlessly with just about any type of décor. Don’t overlook them.

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Style: Modern
Jaipur Rugs 10X14 Feet Hand Tufted Carpet Viscose Blue Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Step into the modern allure of this designer rug from our Genesis collection, where contemporary design meets unparalleled comfort. The pattern, reminiscent of a city skyline, create...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

3 Mailbox by Lluis Clotet & Oscar Tusquets
Located in Geneve, CH
3 Mailbox by Lluis Clotet & Oscar Tusquets Dimensions: D 32 x W 24 x H 40 cm Materials: Made up of steel sheets painted in a black polyester powder coating (RAL 9005). Doors in p...
Category

2010s Spanish Modern Folk Art

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Modern Backgammon Travel Game Handmade Epoxy Resin Handpainted Limited Edition
Located in Milan, IT
The Backgammon Board is a handmade limited edition collection (100 pieces) designed by the young Milan based Valeria Molinari for Dilmos. The project, composed of four boards inspire...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Epoxy Resin

Hand-Tufted Wool Rug in Natural Gray and Anthracite Contemporary Abstract Design
Located in Milano, IT
This 5' x 8' hand-tufted rug from Jaipur Rugs features a sophisticated palette of natural gray and anthracite, showcasing an abstract, contemporary design. Made from premium wool, th...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

A Modern Wool Carpet, Rug, Wool Five by Seven Feet Nine Inches
Located in Manhasset, NY
A Modern Wool Carpet, Rug, Wool Five by Seven Feet Nine Inches By Kaleen. A fine thick wool pile having a geometric design of blue and green colors.
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Hand-Knotted Jaipur Wool Rug in Cloud White, Textured Minimalist Design
Located in Milano, IT
Create a serene ambiance with this 8' x 10' hand-knotted Jaipur rug in a calming cloud white shade. Crafted from high-quality wool, this rug features a subtle, textured pattern that ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Celestial Equinox Ebony & Cinnabar 150x240 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
How does one capture the essence of perpetual balance in design? Explore the enigmatic allure of this hand-knotted rug, meticulously crafted in rural India. Adorned with designs osci...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Hand-loom Jaipur Wool Rug in Snow White, Elegant Monochromatic Minimalist Design
Located in Milano, IT
This 8' x 10' hand-loom wool rug from Jaipur Rugs features a serene snow white color, offering a sleek, monochromatic look ideal for minimalist and modern interiors. The high-quality...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Azure Interplay Pool Blue & Light Turquoise 150X210 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you ever wished your floors could tell a vibrant tale? presents a modern marvel, hand-tufted and meticulously crafted in rural India. A bold celebration of personalities, this h...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Beige And Brown Transitional Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the plush refinement of this wool rug from our Zuri collection, a luxurious addition that promises to elevate the aesthetic richness of your living space. This rug is not ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Beige & Brown Modern Oriental Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Ever dreamt of walking on a canvas of art? This hand-knotted rug , intricately carved with ethereal designs and patterns, beckons you to experience the sublime. Crafted in the heart ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Lynn Basa Encaustic Black and White Stripe Panel "Doppleganger" 2013
Located in Manhasset, NY
Lynn Basa encaustic black and white stripe panel "Doppleganger" (signed and dated) 2013. Oil / beeswax on panel. This is part of our extensive collection ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Folk Art

Materials

Canvas

Lynn Basa Encaustic Black and White Stripe Panel "Camino", 2018
Located in Manhasset, NY
Lynn Basa encaustic black and white stripe panel "Camino" (signed and dated), 2018. Encaustic on panel. This is part of our extensive collection which ju...
Category

Late 20th Century Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Hand-Knotted Rug in Dark Frost Gray and Natural Cream Modern Geometric Design
Located in Milano, IT
This 5' x 8' Jaipur hand-knotted rug features a refined geometric pattern in dark frost gray and natural cream, lending a modern elegance to any room. Crafted from premium wool, it c...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Tufted Carpet Wool Gold Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Presenting this exclusive rug from our starry Genesis collection isn't just a decor piece, it's a transformative masterpiece that holds the power to redefine the view and value of an...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Beige & Brown Modern Moroccan Rug
Located in Milano, IT
A handmade marvel painted in the gentle hues of a Moroccan sunrise! Crafted from sumptuous all-wool fibers, the rug's light peach ground color beautifully contrasts with a border aw...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jan Erika "Island"
Located in Hudson, NY
The "Island" fine art print, shown here, is by UK artist Jan Erika. Unlike her exuberantly colored abstracts, this image reveals a more subtle approach to color and form. The Gicle...
Category

2010s British Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paper

Italian modern urban landscape airbrush painting by Alvise Besutti, 1980s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian modern urban landscape airbrush painting by Alvise Besutti, 1980s Painting with rectangular frame made with airbrush. The painting represents an urban landscape with skyscrap...
Category

1980s Italian Vintage Modern Folk Art

Materials

Canvas, Wood

Lynn Basa Encaustic Black and White Stripe Panel "The Speckled", 2013
Located in Manhasset, NY
Lynn Basa encaustic black and white stripe panel "The Speckled Band" signed and dated. Oil / beeswax on board. This is part of our extensive collection w...
Category

Late 20th Century Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wood

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Red And Orange Modern Moroccan Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Join us on this visual journey with our enchanting hand-knotted rug, akin to a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity ! Like a sunlit desert landscape, the ground color in capti...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

N.07 Hiding with Art
Located in Levent, TR
LIMITED EDITION 30 SIGNED, SERIAL NUMBER AND CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY GUILTY PLEASURE COLLECTION YEAR 2024 “Hiding With Art Folding Screen,” a breathtaking masterpiece born from ...
Category

2010s Turkish Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Paint

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Gold Modern Moroccan & Tribal Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This handwoven rug from our Manifest collection draws inspiration from the harmonious play of sand and spice brown tones, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The rug features an...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Deserted Ripples Snow White & Indian Tan 180x270 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Presenting an exquisite masterpiece from our stunning Aprezo collection, this handmade rug seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, offering a visual nar...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Large Oil on Board by David Hosie
By David Hosie
Located in Little Burstead, Essex
Very large oil on board by this important Glasgow artist, signed lower right. Born 1962. We have been in contact with David and he has told us that this work was one of a series of...
Category

1980s Scottish Vintage Modern Folk Art

Infinite Dimensions Grey Matter & Platinum 240X300 cm Handtufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Ever envisioned a contemporary masterpiece that seamlessly blends art and comfort? Introducing "Infinite Dimensions," a hand-tufted rug. Crafted from naturally dyed wool, it transfor...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Cedrus Deodara #1 by Marco Bellini
Located in Geneve, CH
Qercus Rubra #1 by Marco Bellini Dimensions: 36 H x 36 W cm Materials: Cedar Fire, lime, wood ashes, beeswax Marco was born in the middle of the rice fields of Vercelli, Ital...
Category

2010s Italian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Oak

Barefoot Bliss Undyed White & Undyed White 300x420 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
What if ancient Moroccan motifs met modern minimalism? This captivating rug, hand-knotted by skilled artisans in rural India, unveils the answer. It reimagines classic Moroccan desig...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Nordic Enigma Ashwood & Mauve 300x420 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This hand knotted rug transcends the ordinary, becoming a statement piece that redefines the aesthetic of your living space. The color palette of Ashwood and Mauve sets the stage for...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool & Silk Ivory Modern Moroccan Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you ever envisioned the allure of Moroccan designs seamlessly blending with modern aesthetics? Behold the epitome of this fusion in our hand-knotted wool rug, meticulously craft...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Infinity Horizon Capri & Peacock Blue 150x240 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Embark on a celestial journey with this modern hand-tufted rug, a tapestry of the cosmos. Like a masterpiece painting, it envisions an unseen world where pastel hues merge with elusi...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Pink and Copper Hand Guilded Wallpaper, Non-Repeating Mural, Made by Hand in UK
Located in London, GB
Igneous is a design made from carbon powder and using Custhom’s innovative process of hand-foiling wallpapers, creates a unique distressed or highly polished finish in a wide range o...
Category

2010s English Modern Folk Art

Materials

Paper

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Moroccan Tribal Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the luxurious embrace of this handwoven rug from our Manifest collection, a true testament to elegance and sophistication. The rug's aesthetic is a masterpiece, with a pat...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Ashen Trellis Ashwood & Indigo Blue 240x300 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This hand knotted rug from our Chaos Theory By Kavi collection is a stunning blend of contemporary design and traditional craftsmanship. This rug features a gorgeous pattern in shade...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Nomad's Dream Sky Blue & Golden Apricot 150x240 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This hand-tufted rug by takes you on a visual journey through verdant fields, babbling brooks, and quaint villages, bringing a slice of that peaceful life into your own home. The mod...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Grey And Black Transitional Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the allure of our hand-knotted rug, a harmonious blend of wool and silk curated to elevate your living space. Like a tranquil canvas, the serene cloud-white base effortles...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Moroccan Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the allure of artistic complexness with this luxury rug from our Entropy collection, transforming your space into an exquisite canvas of intrigue, beauty, and comfort. Thi...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Timeless Twirl Natural White & Deep Espresso 240x300 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This handknotted wool rug, crafted in rural India, reimagines timeless motifs with an undeniably contemporary twist. The rich, natural white ground becomes a canvas for an eclectic t...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Charismatic Cityscape Deep Navy & Deep Navy 168x240 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Captivated by the vibrant essence of Jaipur, have you ever longed to bring its enchanting allure into your home? Enter the Jaipur Wunderkammer Collection by Matteo Cibic, a testament...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Origami Bliss Dark Ivory & Oyster 150X210 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Ever wondered if a rug could be a captivating canvas of modern art for your floor? presents a hand-tufted masterpiece, born in the hands of skilled artisans in rural India. This rug ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

City Charms Tea Rose & Tea Rose 168x240 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you ever longed to bring the enchanting hues and architectural wonders of Jaipur into your living space? The Jaipur Wunderkammer Collection by Matteo Cibic for captures the spir...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Untitled 37 by Neshka
Located in Geneve, CH
Untitled 37 by Neshka Dimensions: 20 x 20 x 55 cm Material: Charred cedar and wenge wood stand Neshka ( Agnieszka Krusche ), is a native of Kraków, ...
Category

2010s Canadian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wood, Wenge, Cedar

Maze Harmony Liquorice & Red Orange 240x300 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Like a captivating labyrinth of modern elegance, this hand-knotted rug from boasts bold and abstract mazes akin to intricate jigsaws. Crafted with precision, it features a harmonious...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Moroccan & Tribal
Located in Milano, IT
Step into a world of refined aesthetics with this handwoven rug from our Aprezo collection. The defining feature of this wool rug is its subtle yet engaging pattern, creating a visua...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Classic Intricacy Snow White & Indian Tan 180x270 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This rug is an exquisite blend of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary design, presenting a visually striking addition to any living space. This rectangular rug features an exq...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Sublime Tranquil White & Ebony 300X420 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
What if your rug could be a mood-lifter for your space? Introducing this hand-knotted marvel . With a soothing tone-on-tone palette, this modern rug, handcrafted with care, instantly...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Blue Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
A masterpiece crafted through Persian knotting using the finest hand-carded, hand-spun wool and bamboo silk! The lost translation of design language between hand and machine results ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Elysian Waves Antique White & Deep Teal 270x360 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
The intricate design of this stunning rug from our Unstring by Kavi collection features a blend of antique white and deep teal hues, creating a striking visual impact that instantly ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Architectural Odyssey Rose Smoke & Pink Crush 240x300 cm Handtufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Can a rug capture the essence of a city's soul? It certainly can with the Jaipur Wunderkammer Collection by Matteo Cibic. Hand-tufted with care, this handmade rug pays homage to Jaip...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Juniper Nectar Sea Mist Green & Ivory 240x300 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This hand knotted rug from our Unstring By Kavi collection is a testament to exquisite craftsmanship and timeless design. Featuring a captivating pattern in shades of sea mist green ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Mechanical Melodies Merlot Red & Stone Blue 240x300 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
What happens when the precision of machines meets the spontaneity of nature? Explore the answer with our contemporary rug, where beauty emerges from imperfection. The rug is a unique...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Geo-Mosaic Dream White Ice & Cocoa Brown 300x420 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Hand-knotted from the finest wool, this piece of art by reimagines classic Moroccan design with a contemporary twist. The ground, a cool, crisp white ice, sets the stage for a captiv...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Mystique Universe Ashwood & Indigo Blue 150x240 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Imagine the cosmos unfolding beneath your feet with our Modern Hand-Tufted Rug, a celestial masterpiece reminiscent of a painting. The ethereal pastel hues blend like cosmic brushstr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

5 Mailbox by Lluis Clotet & Oscar Tusquets
Located in Geneve, CH
5 Mailbox by Lluis Clotet & Oscar Tusquets Dimensions: D 32 x W 40 x H 40 cm Materials: Made up of steel sheets painted in a black polyester powder coating (RAL 9005). Doors in p...
Category

2010s Spanish Modern Folk Art

Materials

Steel, Stainless Steel

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Grey And Black Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Introduce elegance to your living space with the Modern Rug , a perfect combination of traditional and contemporary styles. Skilfully hand-knotted in rural India, this rug is a maste...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Illusion Drift Ashwood & Indigo Blue 240x330 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Introducing the epitome of opulence, our Illusion Drift from the collection Genesis. Imagine the lavish touch of hand knotted artistry, where every thread is a whisper of sophisticat...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Tufted Carpet Wool Beige & Brown Modern Geometric Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Refine the elegance and comfort of your floors with this exquisite rug from our Pathways collection. The rug's design is a masterpiece of understated beauty, a symphony of praline hu...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Geometric And Stripes
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the enchanting allure of our Handknotted Wool Rug, where patterns weave an imaginative cosmos that unveils a vibrant and exquisitely detailed garden teeming with Aztec mot...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Bamboo Silk And Zari Blue Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you ever wished to transform your space effortlessly, creating an atmosphere of serenity and sophistication? Introducing this modern hand-knotted rug , handmade in rural India. ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Silk Ivory Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Dive into the unseen beauty of the creative process with this hand-knotted rug from rural India. Inspired by the unnoticed marvels of development and perpetual motion, this modern ma...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Grey And Black Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Experience the epitome of modern design with our Abstract Hand-Knotted Rug, a tribute to the unhurried cadence of natural processes—a rare luxury in today’s fast-paced world. Meticul...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Modern folk art for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Modern folk art for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the 21st Century and Contemporary, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage folk art created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include folk art, decorative objects, wall decorations and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with ceramic, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Modern folk art made in a specific country, there are Europe, Italy, and North America pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original folk art, popular names associated with this style include Pinetti, VG-VGnewtrend, Danese Milano, and Mosche Bianche. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for folk art differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $75 and tops out at $50,000 while the average work can sell for $1,001.

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