Skip to main content

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 The modernists rejected both natural and historical references and relied primarily on industrial materials such as metal, glass, plywood, and, later, plastics.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.

to
43
282
145
344
195
68
2,015
1,071
253
204
188
160
92
88
77
57
40
37
30
22
20
1
1
193
412
11
47
82
1
2
1
3
8
17
25
22
14
228
153
132
100
88
289
177
138
138
133
607
294
466
137
62
28
15
11
Style: Modern
Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Silk Blue Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Immerse yourself in the profound beauty of this hand-knotted rug that transcends time with its modern abstract design. Inspired by moments of pause and reflection, it serves as a ga...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Bela Szeift - Qualifying Race
Located in Branford, CT
Bela Szeift - Qualifying Race 2008. Mixed media. Walercolor and collage on paper. Unframed. 1944 born in Gödöllő Hungary 1959 Transportation Club - Circle of Fine Arts (teacher:...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Hungarian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Paper

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

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

Mystical Horizon Aruba Blue & Cloud White 180X163 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
What whispers of inspiration flow through the intricate fibers of this Modern Hand Tufted Rug, lovingly crafted in the rural heartlands of India? Embodying a captivating aura of comp...
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

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Silk Grey & Black Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Immerse yourself in the timeless elegance of this hand-knotted rug that paints a canvas of serenity and reflection. The ashwood ground and honey border evoke a palette of nature's tr...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian 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

Nature's Rebellion Ashwood & Natural Brown 170x240 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you ever marveled at the beauty found within imperfections? This contemporary rug celebrates the allure of errors, embracing nature's hand in interrupting mechanical precision t...
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

1970s Pippo Pozzi Alessandria/Biella Italy Ceramic Plate
Located in Biella, IT
Pippo Pozzi, Alessandria 1910 / Biella 1999, Italy in years 1960 ceramic plate design measure diameter 13 inches x 1,2" deep, in perfect condition A is very rare. signed in t...
Category

1970s Italian Vintage Modern Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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 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

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 Grey & Black Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Are you looking for a rug that transcends the ordinary, a masterpiece that breathes life into your living space? Behold this Hand-Knotted Rug, a creation of exquisite artistry . Carv...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Nightfall Noir Deep Navy & Deep Navy 180x270 cm Hand Knotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
The artistic beauty is a sublime addition to any living space, seamlessly blending aesthetic charm with unparalleled comfort. Elevating the ambiance, this rug not only enhances the v...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Crossroads Elegance Medium Gray & Snow White 195X295 cm Hand Tufted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Artistry meets architecture in this hand-tufted rug from the collection - Concoction, a modern masterpiece by Shantanu Garg. Inspired by Garg's fusion of Indian design and global aes...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

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

Arborium Cashew & Flax 240x300 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Are you ready to bring the mesmerizing essence of the ocean into your home? Introducing Arborium from the Woven Gems collection, a masterpiece born from the collaboration between and...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Jaipur Rugs 10X13 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Ivory Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Indulge in the artistry of our hand-knotted rug, a fusion of antique white and pastel blue in a modern design. Inspired by candlelight patterns observed, this rug narrates a tale of ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

2005 Paola Lenti Brown Rug Made in Italy 5 x 12 ft 3x Available
Located in Philadelphia, PA
This is a Rug that was designed by Paola Lenti. It was produced in Italy and dates to 2005. The rug is an oval shape and is made of an unknown yarn material. The listed price include...
Category

Early 2000s Italian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Yarn

Modern Relic Undyed White & Medium Tan 270x360 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Embrace the essence of timeless elegance with a touch of unexpected charm. This hand-knotted rug embodies the perfect balance between classic design and modern innovation. Its undyed...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Mask by Accolay pottery, France, between 1947 and 1983
Located in Paris, FR
Mask by Accolay pottery, active between 1947 and 1983, signed
Category

20th Century French Modern Folk Art

Materials

Ceramic

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

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

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

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

Hand Woven Navy/Lilac Modern Blanket Double Sided Patterned Bed Throw Woven inUK
Located in London, GB
For this woven blanket We work closely with a 300 year old mill in Sudbury, Essex, UK. We have the utmost respect for their approach to making fabrics, their knowledge and experience...
Category

2010s English Modern Folk Art

Materials

Cotton

Green 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 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Moroccan & Tribal Rug
Located in Milano, IT
We present an exquisite handmade rug from our Aprezo collection that seamlessly integrates traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Its mesmerizing pattern depicts the soo...
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

Enigma of Errant Ivory & Flax 170x240 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
What happens when nature's hand interrupts the mechanical precision of modern printing? Our contemporary rug answers this question with grace and intrigue. Embracing misprints and or...
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

Woodland Enigma Ashwood & Ashwood 240x300 cm Hand Knotted Rugs
Located in Milano, IT
A hand knotted masterpiece that harmonizes contemporary flair with exquisite craftsmanship. This carpet from our Far East collection displays a contemporary style pattern, which is a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

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

Face Sculpture from Vallauris, Stoneware, signed by Isabelle Vigo
Located in Munich, DE
Signed stoneware sculpture by the French sculptor Isabell Vigo. Raw , unglazed stoneware.
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Modern Folk Art

Materials

Stoneware

Geo-Tribal Dreams Ashley Blue & Ashley Blue 180x270 cm Handknotted Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Step into a world of modern nomad luxury. This hand-knotted masterpiece, crafted from the finest all-wool, reimagines the rich tapestry of Moroccan design with a contemporary twist. ...
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

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

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Beige And Brown Transitional Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Elevate your living space with our hand-knotted rug, a seamless blend of wool and silk. The earthy tones of clay and cloud white border create an inviting canvas adorned with ornate ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Inside Painted Crystal, "Scholars in Jiangnan" Snuff Bottle by Li Yingtao 2016
Located in Tainan, TW
Li Yingtao, an owner of Yizhenzhai, was born in Hengshui City in 1963. He was praised as a Chinese master of splashing color in inside painting, a Master of Arts and crafts in Hebei Province, and the founder of splashing color techniques in inside painting. By now, he has been teaching and passing down this technique to his students. Mr, Li Yingtao is one of the most outstanding disciples of the master of Chinese arts and crafts...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Chinese Modern Folk Art

Materials

Rock Crystal

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Tufted Carpet Wool Grey & Black Modern Geometric Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Have you considered turning your floor into a canvas of modern elegance? Our hand-tufted rug, meticulously crafted in standard sizes including 274X365, 244X304, 183X274, 183X183, 152...
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
A hand-knotted marvel from rural India! Crafted with precision, its tone-on-tone palette transcends decor boundaries, instantly uplifting any space and adding warmth to floors. Wheth...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Tufted Carpet Wool And Viscose Grey & Black Modern
Located in Milano, IT
Delve into the timeless allure of this hand-tufted rug . Traditional patterns and motifs gracefully interweave with symmetric designs, creating a masterpiece that embodies a seamless...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Beige & Brown Rug
Located in Milano, IT
How can a rug transform your space into a haven of tranquility? Meet this modern hand-knotted rug , handcrafted in rural India. The natural brown ground and tawny brown border form a...
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
Prepare to be fascinated by the rhythmic dance of design embodied in this exquisite rug which is from our groovy Pathways collection. The rug displays a striking and groovy pattern t...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Jute Grey And Black Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
A contemporary homage to Moroccan patterns that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity! This plush area rug, meticulously crafted from handspun wool...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Jute

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Grey & Black Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Ever wondered how a tone-on-tone palette could instantly uplift your space? This modern hand-knotted rug is handmade in rural India. The rug in liquorice ground color and natural be...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X11 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Grey & Black Transitional Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This luxury handwoven rug from our Far East collection exemplifies timeless elegance and modern sophistication. This meticulously crafted rug boasts a versatile color palette dominat...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 10X14 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Grey & Black Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Inspired by the unnoticed beauty of experiences in motion, this handknotted rug pays homage to those who take leaps of faith. The design encapsulates the universal mystery of unknown...
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 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 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool & Silk Ivory Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Are you looking for a handmade rug that can be the transformative touch your space craves? Dive into the exquisite allure of this modern hand-knotted rug . Meticulously crafted in ru...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Silk

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Silk Blue Transitional Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This hand-knotted rug, intricately carved with ornate designs, beckons you to a realm of timeless aesthetics. Meticulously crafted in rural India, it boasts a traditional allure, ble...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool & Bamboo Silk Ivory Modern Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Can a rug redefine your space? Experience the transformative power of the our hand-knotted marvel. Crafted with precision, its tone-on-tone palette instantly uplifts any space, addin...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool & Tencil Blue Modern Abstract Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Discover the transformative power of a tone-on-tone palette with this hand-knotted marvel from rural India. Does your space crave an instant uplift in mood? Immerse yourself in the r...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 6X9 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Beige & Brown Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Immerse your space in the gentle embrace of this hand-knotted rug that unfolds like a contemporary masterpiece from rural India. Its light peach ground and clay border form a canvas ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool Ivory Modern Moroccan Tribal Rug
Located in Milano, IT
This luxury rug from our Manifest collection boasts a mesmerizing pattern reminiscent of swirling marble, with a captivating interplay of dark and frosty gray tones. The intricate de...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

Jaipur Rugs 8X10 Feet Hand Knotted Carpet Wool And Bamboo Silk Grey & Black Rug
Located in Milano, IT
Delve into the intricate tapestry of this hand-knotted rug that unfolds like a captivating puzzle. The antique white ground and forever blue border set the stage for bold and abstra...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Modern Folk Art

Materials

Wool

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.

Recently Viewed

View All