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Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

MID-CENTURY MODERN STYLE

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively. 

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

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Style: Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern British Ilford Selo Photography Film Store Display
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This store display was made for the English film manufacturer, Ilford to advertise their Selo film line during the 1960s in the period Mid-Century Modern style. The frame of the disp...
Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

P.W. Baston Supp-Hose Woman's Stockings Advertising Pen Holder Desk Set
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This advertising pend holder was produced by P.W. Baston, also known as Sebastian Miniatures, of the United States in approximately 1960 in the period Mid-Century Modern style. The figurine is composed of a glazed ceramic with a brass and plastic pen holder. The figurine depicts of business woman...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Ceramic

1980 Basquiat magazine article (Basquiat Glenn O'Brien)
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Graffiti 80: The State of the Outlaw Art by Glenn Obrien June 1980 edition edition of High Times featuring in important early profile of Bassuiat aka SAMO by writer & key early supp...
Category

1980s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Northern European Midcentury Orange Metal and Brown Tan Suede Gym Horse, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Northern European Mid-Century Modern orange metal and brown tan suede gym horse, 1960s. Gym horse from northern Europe, with four round section orange metal legs, two of which origi...
Category

1960s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

New York 'World's Fair' Bamboo Lamp with Parasol Shade by Christopher Tennant
Located in Brooklyn, NY
The World’s Fair Collection is a family of fixtures handmade from sustainably sourced materials and upcycled antique paper parasols given to visitors at ...
Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Cement, Brass

Mid-Century Hand Painted Bull's Head Butcher's Shop Advertising Wall Sculpture
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This 1960s era molded fiberglass and hand painted bull's head is unsigned, but believed to be a generic advertising wall decoration from a butcher shop. This head is hand painted in ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Fiberglass

Vintage Centennial Medallion, American, Bronze, J Walter Thompson, Anniversary
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a vintage centennial company medallion. An American, bronze corporate anniversary keepsake for the J Walter Thompson advertising agency, dated 1964. Founded in New York City in 1864, the James Walter Thompson advertising agency was one of the first to open in the United States under the name Carlton & Smith. Incorporated as J. Walter Thompson in 1896, by 1899 the firm had opened a London branch before expanding to Africa and Asia. Long-standing clients include Unilver, Ford and Rolex watches. Fascinating centenary medal, with fine detail and good weight Displays a desirable aged patina throughout Quality bronze presents deep golden hues and minimal tarnishing Face features a representation of the global regions the company operated in Reverse features a reproduction of the mural featured at the company headquarters Maker's mark to edge for Medallic Art Co...
Category

1960s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Bronze

Antique Keystone Model K-160 Antique Projection Machine
By Keystone Camera Company
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Antique Keystone projection machine. Model K-160. Manufactured by Keystone, MFG, Boston Mass, USA. The structure has a compact shape and includes a handle at the top for transport. It has several visible mechanical parts, such as pulleys, rollers, gears and adjustment knobs. At the front is the lens, through which the film was projected. The base houses the control panel with switches and a rotary knob. At the back, there is a cooling fan...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Italian vintage red and white road cones, 1960s
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian vintage red and white road cones, 1960s. Traffic signals or cones with conical rubber structure and square support and with a hole in the upper ...
Category

1960s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Plastic, Rubber

Original 1956 ÖBB ' Österreichische Bundesbahnen' Ashtray by Josef Hoffmann
Located in Vienna, AT
In this ad you can find a beautiful historical artifact. The object for sale is an aluminum cast board ashtray used on Austrian trains in the 50s. It as manufactured for the staatlic...
Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Aluminum

Pablo Picasso -bull, Ceramic Bowl
Located in Bilzen, BE
A ceramic bowl covered with leather on the outside. The bowl is handpainted with a decoration of a bull and Picasso's letters, in impeccable condition without restorations or other d...
Category

Mid-20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Ceramic

Antique Polaroid Colorpack 100 Camera
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Polaroid Colorpack 100 camera. Launched in the 1960s as part of the Land Camera line, this model stands out for its ability to produce instant color photographs using 100 series peel...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

12 Le Cirque N.Y. Villeroy & Boch 9" Soup Bowls Designed by Adam D. Tihany
Located in Bridgeport, CT
From pasta primavera to world-renowned decadent desserts, Le Cirque's ubiquitous reputation for presenting its fine dining fare with whimsy and fun, landed it on the map of must-dine...
Category

20th Century Luxembourgish Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Porcelain

Rudi Gernreich Girls Knit Monokini Bandeau Top Bathing Suit, circa 1964
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An original girls sized 6X monokini with a bandeau top bathing suit designed by Rudi Gernreich, circa 1964. Rudi Gernreich was an American Designer born in Austria, Vienna in 1922 ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Fabric

Vintage Black Leather "Logo" Wallet / Checkbook Cover by Cartier
Located in San Diego, CA
A very nice vintage black leather "Logo" wallet / checkbook cover by Cartier circa 1970s. The wallet features dual Cartier "C" logos embossed on the front and two brass corner guards...
Category

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Leather

Two Lobster Plates in Clear Glass, Sweden, Mid-20th Century
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Two beautiful Lobster plates made of Glass. A nice addition to your Table. Found at an estate sale in Stockholm, Sweden.
Category

Early 20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Ceramic, Majolica

Vintage Wood Survey Measuring Large Stick by Lenner
Located in San Diego, CA
Hard to find a rare vintage wood measuring stick by Lenner.
Category

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Aluminum

Lot 6 Vintage Ape Monkey Bojesen Style Paper Cardboard Hanging Mobile Ornaments
Located in Nuernberg, DE
A rare set of 6 monkey. Each is made from cardboard and paper, this would be a great addition for your room to build your own hanging mobile. Total high of each one is given in dimen...
Category

1970s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Antique Nikon RF10 Camera
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Nikon RF10 camera. Compact 35mm camera launched in the 1990s, ideal for casual and travel photography. With an ergonomic design in matt black plastic and discreet red details, this p...
Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Plastic

1950s Reach Stroehmann Sunbeam Bread Store Display Sign Rare Vintage Advertising
Located in Hyattsville, MD
A very rare advertising campaign tin tacker sign. 'Reach for Stroehmann's Sunbeam Bread.' A single sided tin (SST) embossed sign. Marked Q.B.A. Coop I...
Category

1950s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Antique Agfa camera, Optima Flash, with Case
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Agfa camera, Optima Flash, with case. 35mm analogue camera, belonging to the iconic Optima series, renowned for its ease of use and robustness. This model features a compact and func...
Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Plastic

Hitchcock 'The Birds' Original Vintage Australian Daybill Movie Poster, 1963
Located in Devon, GB
A stunning stone lithography Australian daybill poster for Alfred Hitchcock's psychological masterpiece 'The Birds,' starring Tippi Hendren in her debut role. Based on Daphne du Maur...
Category

1960s Australian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper, Linen

Alexander Girard for Herman Miller Neck Ties. NOS. Silk. Vintage 1960s, Signed
Located in Kansas City, MO
Super rare neckties designed by Alexander Girard for Herman Miller, 1960s. We don't think these were ever in mass production. All th...
Category

1960s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Silk

1950s German Newspaper Advertising Tin Clips Midcentury Graphic Design Set
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Small collection of light duty metal clips, from German newspapers. Silkscreen on thin metal. All working. Kölnische Zeitung (Cologne Gazette) Frankfurter Rundschau Rheinische P...
Category

1950s German Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Tin

Vietnam War Naval Air Medal / POW Hero
Located in San Diego, CA
A Vietnam war naval "Air Medal" and issued to lieutenant commander Dennis Moore of the U.S. Navy for "meritorious achievement in aerial flight. The medal (complete set of medal and ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal, Enamel

Antique Piccolette Camera with Leather Case
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Piccolette camera, with leather case. Vintage copy produced by Contessa-Nettel, a German company that would later merge with Zeiss Ikon. This small "pocket" camera was designed at th...
Category

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Brooke Cadwallader Carnival Mid-Century Era Silk Scarf, 1947-1950
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Brooke Cadwallader Silk Scarf, The Carnival Print – 1947-1950 Brooke Cadwallader was a well-known printed textile designer of the mid-20th century...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Silk

1960s Office Plaque Naval Intelligence Processing System Support Activity Nipssa
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Rare and Obscure Naval Department Office Wall Plaque / Sign. Plaque Only Dia 15 x Thk 5/8 in.
Category

1960s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Resin, Walnut

From the Personal collection of Audrey Hepburn, Photo by Vincent Rossell, 1962
Located in Devon, GB
Audrey Hepburn on the set of 'Paris When it Sizzles,' Paris, 1962 by Vincent Rossell Vintage gelatin silver print Photographer's credit stamp, Audrey Hepburn collection stamp and numerical notations verso From the Personal Collection of Audrey Hepburn...
Category

1960s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Affettatrice Berkel Modello 115 XX Secolo
Located in Milano, IT
Affettatrice Berkel modello 115, finitura a vernice rossa, produzione europea degli anni cinquanta. Presenta volano a fiore, lama 37 cm e piedistallo in ghisa. Completa, restaurata e...
Category

20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal, Steel

Antique Polaroid Camera, Alpha SE, SX 70.
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Polaroid camera, Alpha SE, SX 70. Produced by Polaroid from the 1970s onwards. This model stands out for its folding leather and metal body, presented here in an...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

1979, Old Danish Train Bronze Sign
Located in Esbjerg, DK
A very heavy and patinated bronze sign with raised numerals of the year 1979. The sign is handmade in thick stock and weighs in around 8 kg. The provenance...
Category

1970s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Bronze

From The Personal Collection of Audrey Hepburn, Photo by Vincent Rossell, 1962
Located in Devon, GB
Audrey Hepburn on the set of 'Paris When it Sizzles,' Paris, 1962 by Vincent Rossell Vintage gelatin silver print Photographer's credit stamp, Au...
Category

1960s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Other

James Bond 'From Russia With Love' Original Vintage Movie Poster, Japanese, 1972
Located in Devon, GB
In Sean Connery's second outing as James Bond, 'From Russia With Love' saw the British spy battling a secret crime organisation known as Spectre. The follow-up to 007's 1962 debut in 'Dr. No,' Terence Young's 'From Russia With Love' further developed the Bond formula with elaborate titles, fast-paced action sequences, a John Barry...
Category

1970s Japanese Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Vintage Skiing Boots by Botas, Czechoslovakia, 1970's
Located in Praha, CZ
Well-preserved skiing boots by Botas, size EU40/US6, made in Czechoslovakia, in the 1980's. Made of leather, plastic and metal. Revived, cleaned, shows signs of wear and age. Fully f...
Category

1980s Czech Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Leather, Plastic, Polyester

Paul Newman 'Hud' Original Vintage Movie Poster, Japanese, 1963
Located in Devon, GB
Evoking the wide, flat landscape and beating sun of the American West, this rare knockout poster for the original Japanese release of revisionist Western ‘Hud’ places Paul Newman cen...
Category

1960s Japanese Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Linen, Paper

1960s Industrial Nail Pliers Pincers Tool Steel Iron Rustic Patina
Located in Chula Vista, CA
Vintage Tool Nail Pliers Pincers Pullers. Made in the USA. 1960s Signs of vintage age and wear Great design and form. Wonderful advertising carpentry prop. 12.25 H x 1.88W x 1.75 D i...
Category

1960s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Steel, Iron

Portuguese Antique Manual Olive Oil Dispenser
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Manual olive oil dispenser. This is an old piece of equipment, made mainly of metal, with a sturdy structure and signs of wear and tear over time. ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Original Tourism Posters Promoting Mexico 68 Olympic Games Bursting with Colors
Located in Mexico, DF
Striking original large posters printed for promoting tourism to Mexico´s 68 Olympic Games. Each poster is dedicated to a specific Mexican craft or tradition, such as "Fireworks", "Piñatas", "Ceramic doves", Textiles and flowers. The poster illustrations were commissioned to different artists, with very varied styles. The first version printed (before the graphic identity program was completed) had simply the word "MEXICO" with a Roman font, the later version portrays at the top or bottom of each -as a unifying element- the games´ logo that integrated very successfully "Mexico 68...
Category

1960s Mexican Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Mid-Century Modern Vintage Advertising Cabinet Leukoplast Beiersdorf, 1950s
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Wonderful and rare Mid-Century Modern Vintage cabinet. Striking German design from the 1950s. Beech frame with original milk glass with decora...
Category

1950s German Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

James Bond 'Goldfinger' Original Vintage Film Poster, Swedish, 1965
Located in Devon, GB
Considered the quintessential and definitive Bond film, the third instalment in EON Productions' James Bond series set the template for many of the subsequent films, with its tongue ...
Category

1960s Swedish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Linen, Paper

Collection of 6 Vintage Issues of Masters of World of Architecture, 1960
Located in San Diego, CA
Great collection of 6 issues of Masters of World of Architecture. These issues date back to 1960 and each focuses on a particular architecture icon that is discussed and analyzed wit...
Category

1960s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

'Maison Kuiper' Pair of Fur Hats, 1950s
Located in Tilburg, NL
'Maison Kuiper' pair of 2 fur beret style hats, The Netherlands, 1950s. This is a rare pair of beret style hats in fur made by 'Maison Kuiper' a very ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Fur

'Maison Kuiper' Fur Hat, 1950s
Located in Tilburg, NL
'Maison Kuiper' Ocelot Fur Hat, The Netherlands, 1950s. This is a rare beret style hat in fur made by 'Maison Kuiper' a very high-end boutique in Zeis...
Category

Mid-20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Fur

'Lawrence of Arabia' Original Vintage Australian Daybill Movie Poster, 1963
Located in Devon, GB
Based on Lawrence's autobiography 'The Seven Pillars of Wisdom,' David Lean's sweeping historical epic 'Lawrence of Arabia' followed the Arabian adventures of idealistic British army...
Category

1960s Australian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper, Linen

1950s Aluminum on Wood General Electric Logo, Sign Plaque
Located in Buffalo, NY
1950s aluminum on wood General Electric logo, sign plaque. Salvaged from General Electric Buffalo NY office, stunning, original plaque, cast aluminum depicting famous G E Logo, mount...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Aluminum

Knoll International Catalogs
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Introducing a captivating collection of vintage Knoll catalogs, a must-have for design enthusiasts and collectors alike. This carefully curated assortment showcases the iconic furniture designs and timeless style that have made Knoll a revered name in the industry. Each catalog in this collection offers a glimpse into the rich history of Knoll, featuring a range of beautifully photographed interiors, furniture arrangements, and detailed product descriptions. Immerse yourself in the mid-century modern aesthetic, as these catalogs transport you to an era of sleek lines, organic forms, and innovative design concepts. Discover the vision of legendary designers such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Eero Saarinen, and Harry Bertoia, whose iconic creations are showcased within these pages. Explore the iconic Barcelona Chair, the elegant Tulip Table, or the sculptural Diamond Chair, among many other timeless masterpieces that have defined Knoll's legacy. As you peruse these vintage catalogs, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail that Knoll is renowned for. The catalogs offer insights into the design philosophies behind each piece, providing a fascinating glimpse into the creative process and the ideas that shaped these iconic designs. This collection is not only a valuable resource for design professionals and enthusiasts but also a visual delight for anyone passionate about mid-century modern aesthetics. The catalogs serve as a source of inspiration for interior designers, architects, and collectors seeking to create spaces that exude elegance, sophistication, and enduring style. Each catalog has been meticulously preserved, showcasing the original graphics, typography, and design elements that capture the essence of the era. Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vintage design, this collection of vintage Knoll catalogs is a rare treasure that will enrich your understanding and appreciation of design history. Don't miss the opportunity to own this remarkable collection of vintage Knoll catalogs, a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most influential design companies in the world. Immerse yourself in the golden age of modern design and be inspired by the timeless creations that continue to shape the aesthetic landscape even today. A wonderful collection of twelve Knoll International...
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Audrey Hepburn, Original Vintage Photograph by Vincent Rossell, Paris, 1962
Located in Devon, GB
From the Personal collection of Audrey Hepburn Audrey Hepburn and William Holden on the set of 'Paris When it Sizzles,' Paris, 1962 by Vincent Rossell Vintage gelatin silver prin...
Category

1960s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Other

Audrey Hepburn 'Two for the Road' Original Vintage Movie Poster, Finnish, 1967
Located in Devon, GB
In a radical image update, 'Two For The Road' presented a new-look, more liberated Audrey Hepburn, dressed in the height of sixties mod fashion. The offbea...
Category

1960s Finnish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper, Linen

Portuguese Antique Manual Olive Oil Dispenser
Located in Lisboa, Lisboa
Manual olive oil dispenser. This is an old piece of equipment, made mainly of metal, with a sturdy structure and signs of wear and tear over time. ...
Category

Mid-20th Century Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Vintage Detmer Woolens Advertising Store Display or Salesman's Sample Box
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This promotional advertising store display box was made for the Detmer Woolens Company of the United States in circa 1945. This box was either sent to various clothing retailers or t...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Audrey Hepburn, Original Vintage Photograph by Vincent Rossell, Paris, 1962
Located in Devon, GB
From the Personal collection of Audrey Hepburn Audrey Hepburn on the set of 'Paris When it Sizzles,' Paris, 1962 by Vincent Rossell Vintage g...
Category

1960s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Other

'Ulysses' Original Vintage Movie Poster by Wiktor Gorka, Polish, 1957
Located in Devon, GB
A simplified adaptation of Homer's 'Odyssey,' the 1954 Italian fantasy-adventure film 'Ulysses' follows the warrior king on his wandering ten year journey home to Ithaca after the Trojan War, where his loyal queen and son pray for his safe return. Kirk Douglas starred as the titular Greek hero, alongside producer Dino De Laurentiis' wife Silvana Mangano in a double role as both the faithful wife Penelope and mysterious sorceress Circe. Shot over seven months on a budget of $3 million, with almost a year in post-production, 'Ulysses' earned $124 million at the US box office alone and provided a template for Italian productions to come, igniting the sword-and-sandal craze for lavish Greco-Roman historical...
Category

1950s Polish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Mid-Century Embossed Dekalb Hybrid Corn Advertising Farm or Mercantile Sign
By St. Thomas Metal Signs
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
This vintage sign was made by the St. Thomas Metal Sign Company of St. Thomas Ontario Canada and dates to approximately 1958 and done in the period Mid=Century Modern style. The sign...
Category

Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Metal

Bruce Goff Architectural Portfolio, 1978
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Rare limited numbered boxed portfolio for the "Art and Architecture of Bruce Goff" exhibit. Yellowstone Art Center. Billings, Montana 1978. Number 366/1500....
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Paper

Large Bulbous Gold & White Christmas Tree Tree Hand Blown Ornament Decoration
Located in Clifton Forge, VA
This is a nice, large bulbous peach and cream colored tree ornament which would make a wonderful decoration for your Christmas tree, or other winter or holiday display. It has some d...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Blown Glass

Red & Silver Mercury Blown Glass Church Christmas Tree Ornaments Lot of 3
Located in Clifton Forge, VA
What a cute lot of three traditional style church shaped hand blown Christmas tree ornaments that would make a fabulous addition to any seasonal decor. The churches are silver mercur...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Blown Glass

Vintage Skiing Boots by Botas, Czechoslovakia, 1970's
Located in Praha, CZ
Well-preserved skiing boots by Botas, size EU43/US9, made in Czechoslovakia, in the 1980's. Made of leather, plastic and metal. Revived, cleaned, shows signs of wear and age. Fully f...
Category

1980s Czech Vintage Mid-Century Modern Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Leather, Plastic, Polyester

Mid-century Modern historical memorabilia for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Mid-Century Modern historical memorabilia 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 historical memorabilia created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include more furniture and collectibles, wall decorations, decorative objects and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with paper, metal and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Mid-Century Modern historical memorabilia made in a specific country, there are Europe, North America, and United States pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original historical memorabilia, popular names associated with this style include Vincent Rossell, Lance Wyman, Gosta Aberg, and Albert Kallis. 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 historical memorabilia differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $70 and tops out at $58,950 while the average work can sell for $1,399.

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