Mid-Century Modern Furniture

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

Emerged during the mid-20th century
Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
A heyday of innovation in postwar America
Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
Promotion of functionality

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

Charles and Ray Eames
Eero Saarinen
Milo Baughman
Florence Knoll
Harry Bertoia
Isamu Noguchi
George Nelson
Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa

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.

Style: Mid-Century Modern

Period: 1940s

Mid Century Roman Penis Sculpture 1940s

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Introducing a provocative mid-century Roman sculpture from the 1940s - a daring representation of a stone penis encased in a cube of protective glass. This intriguing artwork challen...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Stone

Mid Century Roman Penis Sculpture 1940s

Sponsored

Karel Koželka & Antonín Kropáček Re-upholstered Bentwood Armchairs, Czechia 1940

By Karel Kozelka & Antonin Kropacek

Located in Almelo, NL

Karel Koželka & Antonín Kropáček re-upholstered bentwood Armchairs, Czechia 1940 We offer re-upholstered Karel Koželka & Antonín Kropáček bentwood armchairs, originally designed in ...

Category

1940s Czech Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Upholstery, Bentwood

Karel Koželka & Antonín Kropáček Re-upholstered Bentwood Armchairs, Czechia 1940

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Paolo Buffa Large Highboard or Wardrobe in Chestnut 1940s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Paolo Buffa, wardrobe or large cabinet, chestnut, Italy, 1940s This rare wardrobe exudes subtle decorative charm and is the work of the talented Italian designer and architect Paolo...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Chestnut

Paolo Buffa Large Highboard or Wardrobe in Chestnut 1940s

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Exceptional Blown Glass Vase - Early XXth Century - Spanish Craftsmanship

Located in Barcelona, ES

Elevate your decor with the exceptional beauty of this vintage blown glass vase from the early 20th century. Created by an unknown Spanish manufacturer circa 1940, this vase remains ...

Category

1940s Spanish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Blown Glass

Exceptional Blown Glass Vase - Early XXth Century - Spanish Craftsmanship

Danish 1940s Banana Form Curved Sofa or Loveseat

By Slagelse Mobelvaerk, Viggo Boesen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Beautiful and very elegant and organic looking Danish 1930-40s curved two-seat sofa raised on a beech frame and legs. These type of sofas was manufactured from the 30's and up throug...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech

Danish 1940s Banana Form Curved Sofa or Loveseat

Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Desk Chair by Ariberto Colombo for Ico Parisi

By Ariberto Colombo, Ico Parisi

Located in Los Angeles, CA

________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Mohair, Foam, Wood, Beech

Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Desk Chair by Ariberto Colombo for Ico Parisi

Rare Set of 5 1940s Alvar Aalto 60 Birch Nesting stools

By Alvar Aalto

Located in Brooklyn, NY

A set of 5 Early Stool #60 designed by Alvar Aalto and produced in Sweden by Artek. During the war period Artek opened factories in neutral Sweden where supplies were still available...

Category

1940s Swedish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Birch, Bentwood, Plywood, Lacquer

Rare Set of 5 1940s Alvar Aalto 60 Birch Nesting stools

Aino Aalto Pair of Club Chairs in Oak, Leather, & Floral Pattern, Artek 1940s.

By Huonekalu-Ja Rakennustyötedas Oy, Artek, Aino Aalto

Located in Helsinki, FI

A rare pair of mid-century Aino Aalto club chairs from the 1930s-40s manufactured by Huonekalu- and Rakennustyötehdas for Artek. The chairs are made of oak and feature a beautiful br...

Category

1940s Finnish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Leather, Fabric, Oak

Aino Aalto Pair of Club Chairs in Oak, Leather, & Floral Pattern, Artek 1940s.

Pair of velvet armchairs in the style of Paolo Buffa, 1940s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Bastia Umbra, IT

Pair of velvet armchairs in the style of Paolo Buffa, Made in Italy, 1940s. One of the most iconic and important models of mid-century Italian design. The frame of this armchair is ...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Velvet, Wood

Pair of velvet armchairs in the style of Paolo Buffa, 1940s

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

By Marc Chagall

Located in Barcelona, ES

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed Enter the enchanting world of Marc Chagall with this beautifully crafted color cliché, published by Editions du Chêne in ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

Rattan Longue Chair By Egon Eiermann Model E10 1940s

By Egon Eiermann

Located in Čelinac, BA

Egon Eiermann Longue Chair Model E10 Germany 1949

Category

1940s German Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Rattan

Rattan Longue Chair By Egon Eiermann Model E10 1940s

Edwin Lutyens Style Loop Back Chair

By Edwin Lutyens

Located in Riverdale, NY

Classic Lutyens Style Chair in original finish with unusual seat upholstery. Iconic pierced loop back design back and feet. Original finish has paint losses and can be easily restore...

Category

1940s European Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wood

Edwin Lutyens Style Loop Back Chair

Banana Form Curved "Banana" Sofa with Newly Rebuilt Seat, Denmark 1940's

By Viggo Boesen, Slagelse Mobelvaerk

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Beautiful and very elegant Danish 1940s curved "sofa raised on a beech frame and legs. These type of sofas was manufactured from the 30's and up through the early 50's and the Danes ...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech, Mohair

Banana Form Curved "Banana" Sofa with Newly Rebuilt Seat, Denmark 1940's

Danish 1940's Easy Lounge Chair with Amber Shearling and Wooden Armrests

By Viggo Boesen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Sublime lounge chair in the style of Viggo Boesen most likely made by Slagelse Mobelvaerk of Denmark sometime in the 1940s. This supercool low swung chair in unmarked but has the ch...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Sheepskin, Beech

Danish 1940's Easy Lounge Chair with Amber Shearling and Wooden Armrests

Table Lamp By Paavo Tynell For Taito Oy Model 5066

By Paavo Tynell, Taito Oy

Located in Vienna, AT

Brass and teak frame, fabric shade fitted with 2 E27 sockets, designed by Paavo Tynell in the 1940 for Taito Oy, model 5066. Original unrestored condition.

Category

1940s Finnish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Brass

Table Lamp By Paavo Tynell For Taito Oy Model 5066

Gilbert Rohde Paldao Cabinet for Herman Miller

By Herman Miller, Gilbert Rohde

Located in Hanover, MA

Gilbert Rohde designed this chest for Herman Miller as part of his 1941 Paldao Line of streamline modernist and modular furniture in exotic veneer. This is model no. 4103, two-door cabinet with distinctively incised large round pulls, interior fitted with two adjustable shelves behind the left door and five pull-out drawers behind the right door, fronts finished in black enamel. The case top and sides are Paldao wood; the doors are in highly figured burl Acacia. The finish is called "Beaver" which is natural color, no stain, satin varnish. The back is numbered "4130." All of Rohde's designs for Herman Miller are marked with a 4-digit number; the first two numbers indicate the year, and the second two numbers indicate the individual piece. Newly refinished and ready to place in your home. The Herman Miller Furniture Company was devoted to manufacturing period reproduction furniture until Pioneer industrial designer Gilbert Rohde walked into their Grand Rapids showroom in 1930. A devout modernist, Rohde convinced D.J. De Pree to focus on modern furniture throughout the 1930s, and to produce exclusively modern furniture by the time Rohde died in 1944. Work by the pioneering American industrial and furniture designer, Gilbert Rohde, is notable for its thoroughly modern, informal, and multifunctional qualities. Rohde’s ability to create appealing modernist furnishings for middle-class homes, while also devising merchandising strategies to sell these goods, places him within a unique framework in American design history. Born and raised in New York, Rohde was the son of a cabinetmaker. He attended New York City public schools and his post-high school education included courses at the Art Students League and the Grand Central School of Art. Rohde’s visit to Europe in the spring and summer of 1927 (with later trips in 1931 and 1937) to see the Bauhaus in Dessau and the French modernist design that debuted in the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, profoundly inspired his concept of design and the role it should play in daily life. The French Art Deco and German rationalist styles he saw in Europe influenced the furniture he designed from the late 1920s into the 1940s, pieces he created to suit a rapidly changing American lifestyle. In addition to his work for Herman Miller Inc., Rohde also designed for several other furniture firms, including Thonet, Troy Sunshade, and Heywood-Wakefield. What set Rohde apart from his contemporaries was his all-encompassing understanding of the furniture industry, from design and production to marketing and showroom display.[1] During his time with Herman Miller Inc. (1932-1944), Rohde set the standard for collaborative efforts between designers and furniture firms, with George Nelson and Charles and Ray Eames later...

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Mahogany

Gilbert Rohde Paldao Cabinet for Herman Miller

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Set of Ten Klismos Dining Chairs by Carl Malmsten for Widdicomb, circa 1940

By Carl Malmsten, Widdicomb Furniture Co.

Located in Saint Louis, MO

A most rare set of ten Klismos dining chairs designed by Carl Malmsten in 1938 for Widdicomb newly professionally refinished and reupholstered in Holy Hunt Great Outdoors fabric designed for both indoor and outdoor use making it highly durable and resistant to stains or happy spills. This particular Klismos set...

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Upholstery, Mahogany

Set of Ten Klismos Dining Chairs by Carl Malmsten for Widdicomb, circa 1940

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Expertly Restored - Eero Saarinen “Womb” Forest Green Leather Chair for Knoll

By Knoll, Eero Saarinen

Located in Los Angeles, CA

________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Steel

Expertly Restored - Eero Saarinen “Womb” Forest Green Leather Chair for Knoll

Sponsored

René Gabriel Reconstruction French Midcentury Armchairs

By Rene Gabriel

Located in ŁÓDŹ, PL

Originally designed in 1946 by the renowned French designer René Gabriel, this pair of lounge chairs is a refined example of the post-war French reconstruction movement. With a focus...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Alpaca, Wood

René Gabriel Reconstruction French Midcentury Armchairs

Viggo Boesen Style 1940s Danish Low Club or Lounge Chair in Pearl Sheepskin

By Flemming Lassen, Viggo Boesen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Comfortable, exuberant, and ultracool Danish lounge chair from the 1930-40's. These type of chairs were produced as companions to the curved "banana" sofas coming out of the of the ...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Beech, Sheepskin

Viggo Boesen Style 1940s Danish Low Club or Lounge Chair in Pearl Sheepskin

Pair of 1940s Danish Small Club or Library Chairs in Brown Patinated Leather

By Oskar Hansen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Charming pair of small scale Danish club chairs made around the 1930's to 1940's. The Danes called these smaller type chairs for "library chairs". Reupholstered in brown leather . Ve...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Brass

Pair of 1940s Danish Small Club or Library Chairs in Brown Patinated Leather

Sunburst Lamp with Forged Nails and Gold Leaf and Opaline, 1940s

Located in Benalmadena, ES

French hanging lamp from the 1940s with a fantastic sun design that conveys elegance and character to any room thanks to the formidable craftsmanship of perfectly placed forged nails...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Iron, Gold Leaf

Sunburst Lamp with Forged Nails and Gold Leaf and Opaline, 1940s

French Art Deco Sideboard, Carved Oak, France, 1940s

By Charles Dudouyt

Located in Kaštel Sućurac, Splitsko-dalmatinska županija

A masterclass in geometric abstraction and artisanal ingenuity, this French Art Deco sideboard from the 1940s exemplifies the era’s pursuit of modern form through noble material. Cra...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Oak

French Art Deco Sideboard, Carved Oak, France, 1940s

Vincent van Gogh Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947

By Vincent van Gogh

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Vincent van Gogh Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947 Medium: Color cliché Publisher: Editions du Chêne, Paris, France Date: 1947 Frame: Solid wood (example shown, final fra...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Vincent van Gogh Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947

Danish 1940s Curved Sofa Model 1668 by Ole Wanscher for Fritz Hansen

By Fritz Hansen, Ole Wanscher

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Superb and rare sofa designed by Ole Wanscher and produced by Fritz Hansen as model 1668 probably in the 1940s. The model was seen in Fritz Hansen's catalog #4202 in 1951 and earlier...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech

Danish 1940s Curved Sofa Model 1668 by Ole Wanscher for Fritz Hansen

Danish 1940's High Back Lounge Chair by Alfred Christensen in Grey Sheepskin

By Slagelse Mobelvaerk, Alfred Christensen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Classic elegant Danish high back armchair from the 1940s by Alfred Christensen for Slagelse Mobelvaerk with open armrests in beautifully carved stained beech wood. Nice slim elegant ...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Sheepskin, Beech

Danish 1940's High Back Lounge Chair by Alfred Christensen in Grey Sheepskin

Rustic Handmade & Handpainted Spanish Chair – Circa 1940.

Located in Barcelona, ES

Rustic Handmade & Handpainted Spanish Chair – Circa 1940 – Unique Vintage Piece with Beautiful Patin. Discover the charm of Spanish craftsmanship ...

Category

1940s Spanish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wood

Rustic Handmade & Handpainted Spanish Chair – Circa 1940.

Alvar Aalto Writing Table Model K81 in Birch & Red Linoleum, Artek 1950s

By Artek, Alvar Aalto, Huonekalu-Ja Rakennustyötedas Oy

Located in Helsinki, FI

A rare Mid-Century Modern writing desk in full birch and red linoleum model K81 manufactured by Huonekalu- ja Rakennustyötehdas for Artek. The minimalist design of this table which w...

Category

1940s Finnish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Birch

Alvar Aalto Writing Table Model K81 in Birch & Red Linoleum, Artek 1950s

American Modern Creamer dish by Russell Wright for Steubenville Pottery

By Steubenville, Russel Wright

Located in Philadelphia, PA

American Modern Creamer or Gravy Boat by Russell Wright for Steubenville Pottery. gray color. very elegant design.

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Ceramic

American Modern Creamer dish by Russell Wright for Steubenville Pottery

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

By Marc Chagall

Located in Barcelona, ES

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed Enter the enchanting world of Marc Chagall with this beautifully crafted color cliché, published by Editions du Chêne in ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

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large Paolo Buffa demi-lune console, marble top, bronze details, three feet 1940

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Rome, IT

important large and fine demi-lune shaped console designed by Paolo Buffa, circa 1940 ebonized walnut, bronze details and rare top "striato Carrara marble " three graceful saber-sh...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Carrara Marble, Bronze

large Paolo Buffa demi-lune console, marble top, bronze details, three feet 1940

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Three-Seat Sofa Attributed to Franco Albini, 1940s

By Franco Albini

Located in Milano, IT

Beautiful three-seat sofa from 1940 attributed to Franco Albini in rosewood. The fabric used for the padding of the sofa Franco Albini is original of t...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

Three-Seat Sofa Attributed to Franco Albini, 1940s

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Original Murano Art Glass Handkerchief Vase in Lattimo Filigrana with Gold foil

By Venini, Fulvio Bianconi

Located in Bochum, NRW

Italian Venetian Murano Art Glass Handkerchief Vase, from the 1940s, Italy. A beautiful Fazzoletto original Murano glass in Lattimo Filigrana and gold foil spreaded. This beautiful p...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Murano Glass

Original Murano Art Glass Handkerchief Vase in Lattimo Filigrana with Gold foil

Eight Mid-century Modern Dining Chairs Attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, 1940s

By Guglielmo Ulrich

Located in Puglia, Puglia

Eight chairs attributed to the famous designer Guglielmo Ulrich and produced by Arredamenti Casa between the 1940s and 1950s. The chairs have been restored and covered in green eco-l...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Faux Leather, Beech

Eight Mid-century Modern Dining Chairs Attributed to Guglielmo Ulrich, 1940s

Expertly Restored - Eero Saarinen “Womb” Forest Green Leather Chair for Knoll

By Knoll, Eero Saarinen

Located in Los Angeles, CA

________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history back to life, and we take this journey with passion and precis...

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Steel

Expertly Restored - Eero Saarinen “Womb” Forest Green Leather Chair for Knoll

Danish 1940s Easy Chair with Open Armrests in Beech by Alfred Christensen

By Alfred Christensen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Classic elegant Danish high back armchair from the 1940s by Alfred Christensen for Slagelse Mobelvaerk with open armrests in beautifully carved stained beech wood. Nice slim elegant...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Beech

Danish 1940s Easy Chair with Open Armrests in Beech by Alfred Christensen

Mid Century Wooden Wardrobe by Le Corbusier for the Unité d’Habitation, 1940s

By Le Corbusier

Located in Stockholm, SE

Very rare French wooden mid century wardrobe in yellow lacquered wood with dark stained oak handles by Le Corbusier for the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille, France 1940s. In good vin...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Steel

Mid Century Wooden Wardrobe by Le Corbusier for the Unité d’Habitation, 1940s

Fontana Arte Rare Cartoccio Vase in Ruby Red Glass

By Fontana Arte, Pietro Chiesa

Located in Bochum, NRW

Originally designed by Pietro Chiesa in 1932 for Fontana Arte, this vase is made from one hot folded sheet of glass. This vintage Cartoccio in ruby red glass can be dated from the 19...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Blown Glass

Fontana Arte Rare Cartoccio Vase in Ruby Red Glass

Italian Rationalist writing desk, 1940’s

Located in Sittard, LI

Wonderful Italian Rationalist Writing Desk from the 1940s This beautiful writing desk from the 1940s is a superb example of Italian Rationalist design. Showcasing the movement’s sig...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Elm, Lacquer

Italian Rationalist writing desk, 1940’s

French Carved Oak Cabinet, France

By Charles Dudouyt

Located in Kaštel Sućurac, Splitsko-dalmatinska županija

A quiet yet resolute expression of mid-century French craftsmanship, this carved oak cabinet from the 1940s is imbued with a sense of order, geometry, and gravitas. Its sculpted door...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Oak

French Carved Oak Cabinet, France

Antique French Bentwood Coat Stand, circa 1940

Located in Barcelona, ES

Antique French bentwood coat stand. By unknown artist, France, circa 1940. In original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use, preserving a beautiful patina. Materi...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Bentwood

Antique French Bentwood Coat Stand, circa 1940

American Designer, Chandeliers, Metal, Fabric, USA, 1940s

Located in High Point, NC

A pair of bronze-painted metal and white fabric chandeliers designed and produced in the US, c. 1940s. Overall Dimensions (inches): 19.75” H x 18” W x 12” D Dimensions of Mount: 1....

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Metal

American Designer, Chandeliers, Metal, Fabric, USA, 1940s

Pair of Lounge Chairs by Cassina

By Cassina

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Pair of Lounge Chairs by Cassina Dimensions: 26"w x 30"d x 34.5"h Material: Upholstery with Beech Frame Italy, c1940s Pair of 2 VNT1551

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Upholstery

Pair of Lounge Chairs by Cassina

Rope Chairs by Adrien Audoux & Frida Minet

By Vibo, Adrien Audoux and Frida Minnet

Located in Portland, OR

Adrien Audoux and Frida Minet, France 1940s. Cantilevered bentwood frame with woven sea grass rope in a grid pattern. Fantastic condition, frames have previously been restored. Sold ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Rope, Beech

Rope Chairs by Adrien Audoux & Frida Minet

Large sculpted diamond-shaped chestnut sideboard, Italy, 1940s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

A large solid wood sideboard with four sculpted doors, in the style of Paolo Buffa, Italian Manufacture, 1940s The striking wood grain, running horizontally across the piece, combin...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Chestnut

Large sculpted diamond-shaped chestnut sideboard, Italy, 1940s

Paul Goldman, Desk, Wood, USA, 1940s

By Plymodern, Paul Goldman

Located in High Point, NC

A wooden desk designed by Paul Goldman and produced by Plymodern Furniture, USA, c. 1940s. Dimensions: 30” x 45” W x 23” D

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wood

Paul Goldman, Desk, Wood, USA, 1940s

Art Deco Glass and Brass Wall Sconce, Germany 1940s

Located in Almelo, NL

Art Deco Glass and Brass Wall Sconce, Germany 1940s This Art Deco wall sconce, a unique blend of glass and brass, hails from Germany and is a relic from the 1940s. Its design, a tes...

Category

1940s German Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Brass

Art Deco Glass and Brass Wall Sconce, Germany 1940s

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Rare Ico Parisi Console. Walnut and Ebonizsed Wood

By Ico Parisi

Located in London, GB

Rare console by Ico Parisi. circa 1949 Italy. This is the longer 140cm version. Console has been professionally and sympathetically restored. Beautiful grain to the wood.

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wood, Walnut

Rare Ico Parisi Console. Walnut and Ebonizsed Wood

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Spanish Petanque Balls - Early 20th Century Set

Located in Barcelona, ES

Spanish Petanque Balls - Early 20th Century Set Discover the timeless charm of our set of four Spanish petanque balls, crafted in the early 20th century around 1940. This exquisite ...

Category

1940s Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Iron

Spanish Petanque Balls - Early 20th Century Set

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Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

By Marc Chagall

Located in Barcelona, ES

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed Enter the enchanting world of Marc Chagall with this beautifully crafted color cliché, published by Editions du Chêne in ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Marc Chagall Color Cliché Editions du Chêne 1947 Framed

French Massive Oak Table Sellette Side Table or Coffee Table, circa 1940

Located in Labrit, Landes

Side, coffee table, sellette or nightstand table. The size of this little table allows to imagine many uses for it. Massive oak. This table can complete a Swiss Alp chalet style. Ma...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Oak

French Massive Oak Table Sellette Side Table or Coffee Table, circa 1940

Rene Prou French Hand Wrought Iron Stool France c1940

By René Prou

Located in Chicago, IL

Rene Prou charming hand wrought iron stool with black patina. The curved feet are expertly formed and the seat is generous. Charming for a vanity stool or an entry. We have left the ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wrought Iron

Rene Prou French Hand Wrought Iron Stool France c1940

Danish 1940s Curved Shape Sofa Model 1668 by Ole Wanscher for Fritz Hansen

By Fritz Hansen, Ole Wanscher

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Superb and rare sofa designed by Ole Wanscher and produced by Fritz Hansen as model 1668 probably in the 1940. The model was seen in Fritz Hansen's catalog #4202 in 1951 and earlier ...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Mohair, Beech, Wool

Danish 1940s Curved Shape Sofa Model 1668 by Ole Wanscher for Fritz Hansen

Petite Sideboard with Rhythmic Panels in Oak, France, 1940

Located in Kaštel Sućurac, Splitsko-dalmatinska županija

Cabinet with Stepped Paneling in Oak, France, 1940s A low, grounded form that exudes both presence and humility, this French oak cabinet is articulated with a rhythmic procession of ...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Oak

Petite Sideboard with Rhythmic Panels in Oak, France, 1940

Pair of Paolo Buffa Style Lounge Chairs

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Hanover, MA

We are fortunate to have two pair of these incredibly stylish and well crafted lounge chairs attributed to Paolo Buffa. Each chair is made of ebonized solid walnut and features exaggerated sinewey armrests that stretch from the backrest to the floor and have solid cherry spindle back and distinctive double X spindle detailing under the arms. The seat deck is woven raffia. These chairs are quite generously proportioned and comfortable even for a larger man (i.e., yours truly!) The lose seat...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Upholstery, Cherry, Walnut

Pair of Paolo Buffa Style Lounge Chairs

Mid Century Matchbook Walnut Tonkbench Chicago Foyer Piano Bench Seat W/ Storage

By Tonk Mfg. Co.

Located in Dayton, OH

Vintage Piano Bench by Tonkbench of Chicago, Illinois, circa 1940s. Features a walnut frame with Matchbook veneered top. The lid of the bench lif...

Category

1940s Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Walnut

Mid Century Matchbook Walnut Tonkbench Chicago Foyer Piano Bench Seat W/ Storage

Vintage desk chair with arms Italian Design by Guglielmo Ulrich

By Guglielmo Ulrich

Located in London, GB

Vintage desk chair with arms, off white patterned cotton fabric upholstery, polished ebony walnut wood structure. Italian Design by Guglielmo Ulrich ca.1940. The lines of this chair ...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Walnut

Vintage desk chair with arms Italian Design by Guglielmo Ulrich

1940s Giovanni Michelucci for Lariolux Brass Table Lamp

By Lariolux, Giovanni Michelucci

Located in Palermo, IT

Pre-war Italian brass desk lamp, circa 1940s. A Classic desk lamp which combines the characteristics of the Art Deco and Art Nouveau movements. A Lariolux ministeriale rounded shade ...

Category

1940s Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Brass

1940s Giovanni Michelucci for Lariolux Brass Table Lamp

Marc Chagall Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947

By Marc Chagall

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Marc Chagall Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947 Medium: Color cliché Publisher: Editions du Chêne, Paris, France Date: 1947 Frame: Solid...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Marc Chagall Framed Color Cliché, Editions du Chêne, 1947

Danish Midcentury Higback Lounge Chair with Open Armrests by Fritz Hansen

By Frits Hansen/Soren Hansen, Fritz Hansen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Stylistically perfect open armchair designed by Soren Hansen for Fritz Hansen in the early 1940s. Sturdy construction of stained beech wood with the frame being in very good conditio...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech

Danish Midcentury Higback Lounge Chair with Open Armrests by Fritz Hansen

1940s Club Chair in Tan Brown Patinated Leather in the Style of Fritz Hansen

By Oskar Hansen

Located in Silvolde, Gelderland

Very characteristic tan brown leather cigar / club chair from the 1940s made in Denmark and attributed to Oskar Hansen. This club chair in her complete and original condition. The ab...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Leather

1940s Club Chair in Tan Brown Patinated Leather in the Style of Fritz Hansen

Exceptional Blown Glass Vase - Early XXth Century - Spanish Craftsmanship

Located in Barcelona, ES

Elevate your decor with the exceptional beauty of this vintage blown glass vase from the early 20th century. Created by an unknown Spanish manufacturer circa 1940, this vase remains ...

Category

1940s Spanish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Blown Glass

Exceptional Blown Glass Vase - Early XXth Century - Spanish Craftsmanship

Sponsored

Antique French Bentwood Coat Stand, circa 1940

Located in Barcelona, ES

Antique French bentwood coat stand. By unknown artist, France, circa 1940. In original condition, with minor wear consistent with age and use, preserving a beautiful patina. Materi...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Bentwood

Antique French Bentwood Coat Stand, circa 1940

Sponsored

Danish 1940s Large Curved Banana Shape Sofa

By Slagelse Mobelvaerk, Viggo Boesen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Large banana shaped or curved sofa made in Denmark, circa 1940. This sofa will make strong statement in any room. Beautiful round voluptuous lines and with large bun feet providing a...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech

Danish 1940s Large Curved Banana Shape Sofa

Sponsored

Mid-Century Modern 1940s Pair of Lounge Chairs with Sculptural Wooden Frames

Located in Waalwijk, NL

Pair of lounge chairs, beech, fabric, Europe, 1950s The overall shape of these chairs is composed of clean, functional lines that communicate a sense of stability and ease, without ...

Category

1940s European Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Beech

Mid-Century Modern 1940s Pair of Lounge Chairs with Sculptural Wooden Frames

Pair of Striking French Arrow Iron Tables Attributed to Maison Jansen

By Maison Jansen

Located in New York, NY

This striking pair of painted iron tables, with their thick glass tops and arrow-form feet, channels the refined neoclassicism and impeccable craftsmanship attributed to Maison Janse...

Category

1940s Unknown Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Iron

Pair of Striking French Arrow Iron Tables Attributed to Maison Jansen

Danish 1940s Large Curved Banana Shape Sofa

By Slagelse Mobelvaerk, Viggo Boesen

Located in Bridgeport, CT

Large banana shaped or curved sofa made in Denmark, circa 1940. This sofa will make strong statement in any room. Beautiful round voluptuous lines and with large bun feet providing a...

Category

1940s Danish Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Wool, Beech

Danish 1940s Large Curved Banana Shape Sofa

Marc Chagall (1887-1985) Plate 3 From Four Tales of the Arabian Nights, 1948

By Marc Chagall

Located in CA, CA

Marc Chagall (1887-1985) Plate 3 from the series “Four Tales of the Arabian Nights”, 1948, also titled “Then He Spent The Night With Her Embracing” Published: Pantheon Books, New York Medium: Lithograph Sheet Size: H 43cm x W 23cm Year: 1948 Edition: 90, this example 59/90 Signature: Hand signed in pencil, Marc Chagall Literature: M. 38; see C. books 18) A very rare example of Chagall’s first major and most important lithography series “Arabian Nights” Vichy France...

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Marc Chagall (1887-1985) Plate 3 From Four Tales of the Arabian Nights, 1948

Venini Murano glass flush mount ceiling light, Italy 1960s

By Venini

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Venini Murano glass flush mount ceiling light Murano reticello glass, brass, steel. Made in Italy in 1940s. Takes 1 Edison bulbs each. ...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Aluminum

Venini Murano glass flush mount ceiling light, Italy 1960s

Raoul Dufy Fauvist 1948 Color Cliché Print, Framed

By Raoul Dufy

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Step into the lively and whimsical world of Raoul Dufy with this exquisite color cliché print, meticulously edited by Editions du Chêne in Paris, France, in 1948. Housed in a solid w...

Category

1940s French Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Paper

Raoul Dufy Fauvist 1948 Color Cliché Print, Framed

Rway, Nightstands, Mahogany, Birch, USA, 1940s

By Eliel Saarinen

Located in High Point, NC

A pair of mahogany and birch nightstands produced by Rway, USA, 1940s.

Category

1940s American Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Birch, Mahogany

Rway, Nightstands, Mahogany, Birch, USA, 1940s

Paolo Buffa brass and Carrara marble round dining table, Italy, 1940s

By Paolo Buffa

Located in Chiavari, Liguria

An exquisite dining table in cast brass and rare "Cremo Delicato" marble from Carrara, Italian manufacture, design by Paolo Buffa, 1950s. Slender yet s...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Carrara Marble, Brass

Paolo Buffa brass and Carrara marble round dining table, Italy, 1940s

Four dining chairs by Osvaldo Borsani for Arredamenti Borsani. published

By Arredamenti Borsani, Osvaldo Borsani

Located in Piacenza, Italy

Set of four elegant dining chairs by Osvaldo Borsani for Arredamenti Borsani. Crafted from dark wood, they feature soft, white upholstered seats and backs. The design is refined, wit...

Category

1940s Italian Vintage Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Materials

Textile, Wood

Four dining chairs by Osvaldo Borsani for Arredamenti Borsani. published

Mid-century Modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs.

Find a broad range of unique Mid-Century Modern furniture 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 furniture created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include lighting, seating, tables and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with metal, wood and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Mid-Century Modern furniture 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 furniture, popular names associated with this style include Cassina, Fabio Ltd, Knoll, and Edward Wormley. 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.