Questions
Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?
1 Answer

The difference between Art Deco and mid-century modern (MCM) is that the terms describe two distinct design styles. Art Deco typically refers to pieces produced between the 1920s and 1930s. Furniture produced in this style tends to display bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs, metal accents, shimmering mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides, inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. MCM, or mid-century modern, emerged after World War II. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. Designers working in this style frequently used industrial materials, including steel, fiberglass, molded plywood, and alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak. Explore a wide variety of Art Deco and mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
Related Questions
- What is the difference between Memphis and Art Deco?1 Answer
- What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?1 Answer
- What is the difference between Edwardian and Art Deco jewelry?1 Answer
- What is the difference between art and fine art?1 Answer
- What is the difference between modern art and contemporary art?1 Answer
Shop for Art Deco Furniture on 1stDibs
Dandy Stool in Black Shagreen and Bronze-Patina Brass by Kifu, Paris
Located in New York, NY
The Paris based label has distinguished themselves since their launch, with their iconic use of shagreen mixed with brass and other exotic materials. All furniture is handcrafted by ...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Philippine Art Deco Stools
Materials
Brass
1940
s Set of Gil Elvgren Pin Up Girl Playing Cards by Brown
Bigelow in Box
By Gil Elvgren, Brown
Bigelow
Located in Red Lion, PA
This highly collectible 1940s set of Gil Elvgren pin-up girl playing cards, commissioned and printed by the legendary American advertising firm Brown & Bigelow, is a superb example o...
Category
Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Games
Materials
Paper
Marcel VASSEUR Large Art Deco Alabaster Pendant Chandelier, 1920
Located in Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR
Large French Art Deco Pendant with Exceptionally Thick Alabaster Shade by Marcel Vasseur, Paris, ca. 1920.
Impressive and rare French Art Deco pendant light featuring an exceptional...
Category
Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Alabaster, Wrought Iron
Opaline Glass
Burnished Brass Ball Pendants with Tassel, Germany 1930s
Located in NUEMBRECHT, NRW
German Art Deco Opaline Pendants, 1930s, Bauhaus era
The lights feature elegant German Art Deco design with a patinated brass rod and canopy, complemented by a decorative moss green...
Category
Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
A Handsome 1930’s French Leather Club Chair, Havana Moustache Model
Located in Hastings, GB
A Handsome 1930’s French Leather Club Chair Havana Moustache Model with Cuban Cigar Arms
This is a deep-seated chair with wonderful proportions. Stylish and iconic this chair is a f...
Category
Early 20th Century French Art Deco Club Chairs
Materials
Leather
Modern Dennis
Leen for Formations Waterfall Writing Table Desk
By Dennis
Leen
Located in LOS ANGELES, CA
Modern Dennis & Leen for Formations Waterfall Writing Table Desk.
Category
Vintage 1980s American Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Giltwood


