Adrian Pearsall designed some of the most exuberant and expressive American chairs, sofas and other furniture of the 1950s and ’60s. For verve and vivacity of form, he surpasses even Vladimir Kagan — whose work is the emblem of swinging, sexy mid-20th century modernism. Pearsall gave his imagination free rein, and his flamboyant, eye-catching styles are icons of what has become known as “Atomic Age” design.
Pearsall studied architectural engineering at the University of Illinois before opening his Pennsylvania furniture company, Craft Associates, in 1952, and that training shows in many designs.
A Pearsall trademark, for example, is a lounge chair with an exceptionally tall, trapezoidal back, which give the pieces a skyscraper-like silhouette. Pearsall also had a talent for so-called Gondola sofas — long, low-slung pieces with upswept ends. Many of Pearsall’s sofas and chairs are supported not by legs, but on gently arced walnut skids.
Pearsall had a gift for tables, too, in particular glass-topped side tables and coffee tables with frames that have the look of an Alexander Calder stabile. As you will see from the offerings on 1stDibs, Pearsall had flair, and his work adds an attention-getting, sculptural exclamation point to any décor.
Find vintage Adrian Pearsall sofas, armchairs, coffee tables and other furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Mid-Century Modern Sofa, Europe ca 1950s
Located in Utrecht, NL
Mid-century design is typically characterized by clean, simple lines and honest use of quality materials. It also generally includes minimal, tasteful use of decorative embellishment...
Fabric, Wood
1950s Italian Mid Century Corner Sofa
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Italy Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Wool, Beech Measurements: 78.75″ wide x 25.5″ deep x 31.5″ tall Condition: In good original condition wit...
Wool, Beech
Mid-Century Modern Italian Style Sofa
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This four seat midcentury sofa features comfortable two cushion design complete with unique vintage fabric. Slender Italian style legs giv...
Fabric
Adrian Pearsall Armless Sofa
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Napa, CA
This well taken care of armless sofa by American furniture designer, Adrian Pearsall will surely make your space that much more unique! This armless sof...
Fabric, Walnut
$10,000
H 28 in W 127 in D 35 in
Mid-Century Modern Platform Sofa by Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Featuring a sculptural walnut frame with a finished back, teal upholstered seat cushions in velour, and integrated marble side table. A striking example of Pearsall’s signature organ...
Marble
$9,995
H 29.5 in W 120 in D 31 in
Mid-Century Modern Adrian Pearsall Platform Sofa, 1960s Craft Associates
By Adrian Pearsall, Craft Associates
Located in Raleigh, NC
This exceptional Adrian Pearsall platform sofa showcases the renowned mid-century modern designer's signature floating aesthetic with integrated walnut end tables elegantly positione...
Upholstery, Walnut
Sofa by Milo Baughman
By Milo Baughman
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Milo Baughman's tapered leg sofa, adorned with a fresh Herman Miller, Alexander Girard fabric and new foam, exudes timeless sophistication. The sleek, tapered legs provide a modern t...
Upholstery, Wood
Moreno Sofa by Lawson-Fenning
By Lawson-Fenning
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Moreno sofa sits low and deep with Italian inspired curved arms. The sofa features loose seat and back cushions and two side cushions that mimic the curvature of the arms. The le...
Upholstery, Oak
Douglas Sofa by Lawson-Fenning
By Lawson-Fenning
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Douglas sofa is a low-slung sofa with a down-wrapped seat cushion and solid American walnut or white oak legs. The Lawson-Fenning Collection is designed and handmade in Los Ang...
Mohair, Walnut
Mid Century Modern Adrian Pearsall Sculptura Sofa Loveseat
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Tulsa, OK
Mid Century Modern Adrian Pearsall Sculptura Sofa Loveseat Iconic Adrian Pearsall Sculptural Sofa. This is an item I've only seen a couple times in ten years. Above average conditi...
Walnut, Upholstery
