What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

What is modern furniture made of?

Modern furniture is made of many different types of materials. Some modern furniture makers used natural materials like wood for frames and leather and linen for upholstery. Metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel and nickel, were also common, as were some plastics. Explore a diverse assortment of modern furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

What is Danish modern furniture?

Danish modern furniture is the term for a style of furniture that emerged during the 1930s through the innovation of designers from Denmark. It is a subset of Scandinavian modern furniture, the warmest and most organic iteration of modernist design. The work of the designers associated with vintage Scandinavian modern furniture was founded on centuries-old beliefs in both quality craftsmanship and the ideal that beauty should enhance even the humblest accessories of daily life. Some notable Danish modern designers include Hans J. Wegner, Kaare Klint, Arne Jacobsen, Finn Juhl, Arne Vodder and Verner Panton. Shop a range of Danish modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What is modern furniture design?

Modern furniture design is an overarching term for the new approach that designers began taking in the early 20th century. Many experts cite the Bauhaus movement as the start of the modern era. Its style was defined by the instructors and students at a progressive German art and design school founded by the architect Walter Gropius that operated from 1919 to 1933. In Bauhaus-style furniture, the school’s followers married industrial and natural materials in simple, geometric forms. The goal of the Bauhaus was to erase the distinction between art and craft while embracing the use of new technologies and materials. As the Bauhaus movement was emerging, so too was Art Deco. This iconic movement made an indelible mark on all fields of design throughout the 1920s and ’30s, celebrating society’s growing industrialization with refined elegance and stunning craftsmanship. Art Deco furniture makers respected the dark woods and modern metals with which they worked; they frequently incorporated decorative embellishments such as exotic animal hides as well as veneers in their seating, case pieces, living room sets and bedroom furniture. After World War II, modern design continued with the mid-century modern movement. The style 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. Historians typically say that the modern approach to furniture design ended in the mid-1960s or early 1970s. Pieces made after that time may be called postmodern or contemporary. Shop a large collection of modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What is modern style furniture?

Modern style furniture has smooth shiny surfaces, straight lines, simple shapes. The general objective is a simple uncluttered look.

What is the difference between modern furniture and old furniture?

The difference between modern furniture and old furniture is in the specificity of the term. Generally, pieces considered modern date from between the end of World War II in 1945 and the end of the 1970s. During this period, more furniture makers mass produced pieces, and designers increasingly used new materials, such as plywood and plastic. Old furniture is not a specific term. People frequently use the term old for anything that subjectively appears aged. Explore a large selection of modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What is mid century modern furniture?

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?

Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What year is mid-century modern furniture?

There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

What type of wood is used in Danish modern furniture?

The material typically used in Danish modern furniture is teak.

Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?

Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames , Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

What material did Marcel Breuer introduce to modern furniture design?

Marcel Breuer introduced the material of tubular steel to modern furniture design. He employed it in many of his chairs, tables and sofas, prizing the material because it minimized the weight of pieces without sacrificing their strength. Shop a range of Marcel Breuer furniture on 1stDibs.

Iconic Modern Furniture

White Fiberglass Furniture

Crate Chair

Mid Century Atomic Table Lamp

Prototype Chair

Ball Chair By Eero Aarnio

Tomato Chair

Iconic Chandelier

Murano Frosted Chandelier

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Lucite

Trojan Horse Head or Knight Chess Piece Lucite Sculpture on a Base

$895

Le Jeune Upholstery Indigo Ottoman Showroom Model, Per Item

By Iconic Design Gallery

Located in Miami, FL

Le Jeune Upholstery Indigo Ottoman Showroom Model, Per Item Offered for sale individually are Le jeune Upholstery INDIGO O5/06 .923 Ottomans that are showroom models. This is a ver...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Ottomans and Poufs

Materials

Fabric, Hardwood

Le Jeune Upholstery Indigo Ottoman Showroom Model, Per Item

$400 / item

Iconic Jens Risom Lounge Chair for Knoll, Model 652-W, Mid-Century Modern

By Jens Risom, Knoll

Located in Los Angeles, CA

celebrated as one of the icons of mid-century modern design. This timeless piece features a solid walnut

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Cotton, Wood

Iconic Jens Risom Lounge Chair for Knoll, Model 652-W, Mid-Century Modern

$2,350

Hans Wegner CH28 Sawback Lounge Chair Danish Modern Icon by Carl Hansen Søn

By Carl Hansen Søn, Hans J. Wegner

Located in London, GB

Hans Wegner CH28 Sawback Lounge Chair Danish Modern Icon by Carl Hansen & Søn Presenting an

Category

Early 2000s Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Oak, Leather

Hans Wegner CH28 Sawback Lounge Chair Danish Modern Icon by Carl Hansen Søn

$4,297

Iconic Italian Mid-Century Modern Spider Side or Coffee Tables by Carlo di Carli

By Carlo di Carli

Located in New York, NY

An Elegant and Iconic Italian Mid-Century Modern "Spider" Side Table or Coffee Table by Carlo Di

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Glass, Hardwood

Iconic Italian Mid-Century Modern Spider Side or Coffee Tables by Carlo di Carli

$5,895 / item

Mid Century Modern Joe Colombo Iconic Boby Trolley Cart 1970 Bieffeplast Italy

By Joe Colombo, Bieffeplast

Located in Brooklyn, NY

Mid Century Iconic Joe Colombo Boby Trolley cart designed by in black color designed by Joe Colombo

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Carts and Bar Carts

Materials

Plastic

Mid Century Modern Joe Colombo Iconic Boby Trolley Cart 1970 Bieffeplast Italy

$800

An iconic 1960s Mid-Century Modern Solid Brass Wall Mirror by Luciano Frigerio

By Luciano Frigerio

Located in Aci Castello, IT

make it an iconic piece that stands out in any interior setting.

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors

Materials

Brass

An iconic 1960s Mid-Century Modern Solid Brass Wall Mirror by Luciano Frigerio

$2,623

Iconic, 1960s Gigi Radice Style Mid-Century Modern Brass and Velvet Italian Sofa

By Gigi Radice

Located in Catania, IT

Iconic Mid-Century Modern, Italian modern sofa in velvet in shades of light blue, in the manner of

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Brass

Iconic, 1960s Gigi Radice Style Mid-Century Modern Brass and Velvet Italian Sofa

$2,480 Sale Price

46% Off

Vittorio Dassi Iconic Design Mid-Century Modern Italian Dining Table, 50s, Rare!

By Vittorio Dassi

Located in Puglia, Puglia

Beautiful table designed by the famous Italian Mid-Century Modern designer Vittorio Dassi, 1950

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Marble, Brass

Vittorio Dassi Iconic Design Mid-Century Modern Italian Dining Table, 50s, Rare!

$11,328

Custom Lucite, Cast Acrylic Tripod Book Stand for Taschen Style Oversized Books

By Iconic Design Gallery

Located in Miami, FL

Custom Lucite, Cast Acrylic Tripod Book Stand for Taschen Style Oversized Books Offered for sale is a Lucite and cast acrylic three-legged Taschen style book stand for over-sized bo...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Magazine Racks and Stands

Materials

Acrylic, Lucite

Custom Lucite, Cast Acrylic Tripod Book Stand for Taschen Style Oversized Books

$2,750 / item

Iconic stoneware vase model Argenta by Wilhelm Kåge, Swedish Modern 1949

Located in Stockholm, SE

A Swedish modern classic, stoneware vase in signature green glaze with decor of a mythical figure

Category

Vintage 1940s Vases

Materials

Silver

Iconic stoneware vase model Argenta by Wilhelm Kåge, Swedish Modern 1949

$1,450

René Prou Iconic Black Iron Glass French Side, End Table Mid-Century Modern

By René Prou

Located in Miami, FL

Iconic 1930 Jean Prouvé Black Wrought Iron and Glass Side, End or Sofa Table made in France in 1930

Category

Vintage 1930s French Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Materials

Wrought Iron

René Prou Iconic Black Iron Glass French Side, End Table Mid-Century Modern

$3,450

Set of 4 Russell Woodard Restored Iconic Sculptura Mesh Lounge Patio Arm Chairs

By Woodard Furniture Co., Russell Woodard

Located in St. Louis, MO

Newly restored set of four Iconic Russell Woodard Mid-Century Modern wire mesh lounge patio arm

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Patio and Garden Furniture

Materials

Steel

Set of 4 Russell Woodard Restored Iconic Sculptura Mesh Lounge Patio Arm Chairs

$4,000

Mid-Century Modern Iconic Sculptural Textured White Plaster Table Lamp on Lucite

By Sirmos

Located in Miami, FL

Mid-Century Modern table lamp with Harp & Finial. Plaster undertone with textured finish in a slim

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Iconic Sculptural Textured White Plaster Table Lamp on Lucite

$750

Custom Made Lucite Oversized Coffee-table Book Stand for Taschen Sumos

By Iconic Design Gallery

Located in Miami, FL

Custom Made Lucite Oversized coffee-table book stand for Taschen Sumos This large, free-standing lucite book stand allows you to display and view oversized specialty books as seen a...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Magazine Racks and Stands

Materials

Brass

Custom Made Lucite Oversized Coffee-table Book Stand for Taschen Sumos

$2,400 / item

Rare Large Glass Pendant by Louis Kalff for Philips, Mid-Century Modern Icon

By Louis Kalff, Phillips

Located in Dronten, NL

A striking example of mid-century modern design, this large glass pendant by the celebrated Dutch

Category

Vintage 1950s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Aluminum, Brass

Rare Large Glass Pendant by Louis Kalff for Philips, Mid-Century Modern Icon

$1,650

Iconic Table by Martin Eisler

By Martin Eisler

Located in London, England

Iconic Dining Table by Martin Eisler

Category

Vintage 1950s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Cane, Hardwood, Glass

Iconic Table by Martin Eisler

Price Upon Request

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

By Fabio Ltd.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian modern chandelier or flushmount shown with smoked amber curved glass shade with a beveled

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Materials

Brass

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

$7,500 / item

Six Mid-Century Modern Ash Stacking Chairs by David Rowland Iconic 40/4 Chair

By David Rowland

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Fantastic set of six 40/4 stacking chairs by David Rowland in highly sought after Ash with chromed rod bases. Steam bent panels for body comfort and great design. Chairs have been to...

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Steel, Chrome

Six Mid-Century Modern Ash Stacking Chairs by David Rowland Iconic 40/4 Chair

$395 / item

Iconic Venini Esprit Chandelier, 1970

By Venini

Located in Rome, IT

This striking esprit chandelier was produced by Venini during the 1970s. Explosion of flowers, made with amber and clear precious Murano glasses. Chrome frame and hardware. Available...

Category

Vintage 1960s European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Glass

Iconic Venini Esprit Chandelier, 1970

$21,465

Pair Mid Century Modern Swag Lamps! Iconic 1950s Gino Sarfatti for Raymor! Gold

By Gino Sarfatti, Raymor

Located in Peoria, AZ

are the quintessential, mid century modern Italian swag lamps! Beautiful in their simplicity and

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Metal

Pair Mid Century Modern Swag Lamps! Iconic 1950s Gino Sarfatti for Raymor! Gold

$1,599 Sale Price

39% Off

Iconic Lady Desk by Helmut Magg for WK Möbel, Mid Century Modern, Germany, 1950s

By Helmut Magg

Located in Wrocław, Poland

This is the famous desk designed by Helmut Magg, also known as „Lady Desk”. Produced in Germany by Neue Gemeinschaft für Wohnkultur, WK Möbel in 1950s. The design is simple yet very ...

Category

Vintage 1950s German Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Materials

Cherry

Iconic Lady Desk by Helmut Magg for WK Möbel, Mid Century Modern, Germany, 1950s

$5,843

Icon Bar Stool by Phase Design

Located in Geneve, CH

Icon Bar Stool by Phase Design Dimensions: Ø 40.6 H 73,7 cm. SH: 73,7 cm. Materials: Leather

Category

2010s American Modern Stools

Materials

Metal, Brass

Icon Bar Stool by Phase Design

$3,112 / item

Icon Counter Stool by Phase Design

Located in Geneve, CH

Icon Counter Stool by Phase Design Dimensions: Ø 40.6 H 63.5 cm. SH: 63.5 cm. Materials: Leather

Category

2010s American Modern Stools

Materials

Metal, Brass

Icon Counter Stool by Phase Design

$2,993 / item

Iconic Danish Ceramic Pendant Lamp

Located in Antwerp, BE

Beautiful Danish ceramic pendant lamp from the middle of the last century. Unique design with detailed leaf motifs. Including matching table lamp. This timeless Danish ceramic penda...

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Ceramic

Iconic Danish Ceramic Pendant Lamp

$3,040

Iconic George Nelson ‘Coconut’ Lounge Chair

By George Nelson, Vitra

Located in Waalwijk, NL

1955, later production The ‘Coconut’ lounge chair is one of George Nelson’s iconic designs. Nelson

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Steel

Iconic George Nelson ‘Coconut’ Lounge Chair

$2,950

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

By Fabio Ltd.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian modern chandelier or flush mount shown with smoked amber curved glass shade with a beveled

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Materials

Brass

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

$7,500 / item

A Set of Three Iconic Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases by Seguso, Murano 1980s

By Seguso Vetri d Arte

Located in Villaverla, IT

White Light, Black Shadow: A Sublime Set of Three Murano Vases by Seguso Vetri d'Arte 1980s This magnificent ensemble comprises three perfectly matched Italian art glass vases, a te...

Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Glass, Art Glass, Blown Glass, Murano Glass

A Set of Three Iconic Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases by Seguso, Murano 1980s

$8,943 / set

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

By Fabio Ltd.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian modern chandelier or flushmount shown with smoked amber curved glass shade with a beveled

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Materials

Brass

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

$7,500 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Giant Ball Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

Cologne Furniture Fair in 1966. The chair is one of the most famous classics of Finnish design and it was

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Aluminum

Iconic Eero Aarnio Giant Ball Chair

$53,782 / item

Tria Octa Table by Colé, Asymmetric Top, Solid Oak Legs, Modern Design Icon

By Lorenz+Kaz

Located in Milan, Lombardy

Tria oak tables are characterized by the solid wood legs that take up a triangular section like of the homonymous Tria chairs, evoking tree branches, then assembled on a large variet...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Minimalist Dining Room Tables

Materials

Paint, Oak, Plywood

Tria Octa Table by Colé, Asymmetric Top, Solid Oak Legs, Modern Design Icon

$4,611 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Pony

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

Pony is a friendly and characterful addition to any room, but as always, it was designed first and foremost to provide a comfortable seat. Pony has a moulded foam body, feet and ears...

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Children s Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Foam

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Pony

$3,952 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Orange Pony

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

Pony is a friendly and characterful addition to any room, but as always, it was designed first and foremost to provide a comfortable seat. Pony has a moulded foam body, feet and ears...

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Children s Furniture

Materials

Fabric, Foam

Iconic Eero Aarnio Orange Pony

$3,952 / item

Rare Iconic Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamp by Prof. Carl Moor for BAG Turgi 1950s

By BAG Turgi

Located in Munich, DE

Extremely rare and iconic floor lamp or reading light. One of the shade adjustable. Designed by

Category

Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Aluminum

Rare Iconic Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamp by Prof. Carl Moor for BAG Turgi 1950s

$16,695

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

By Fabio Ltd.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian modern chandelier or flushmount shown with smoked amber curved glass shade with a beveled

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Materials

Brass

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

$7,500 / item

Iconic Gilbert Watrous Magnetic Floor Lamp

By Gilbert Watrous

Located in Riverdale, NY

Iconic Mid Century Watrous Floor Lamp with a magnetic socket allowing change to multiple heights

Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Iconic Gilbert Watrous Magnetic Floor Lamp

$7,750

Andy Wing " Summer Icon ", 1966-1979

Located in San Juan Capistrano, CA

Andy Wing " Summer Icon " 1966-1979.

Category

20th Century American Modern Paintings

Materials

Wood, Paint

Andy Wing " Summer Icon ", 1966-1979

$3,800

Iconic Eero Aarnio Orange Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Orange Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Green Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Green Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Pink Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Pink Pastil Chair

$3,571 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Yellow Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Yellow Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Black Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Black Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Blue Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Blue Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Pastil Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

aim, he thought a new piece of furniture could be fitted in this void. The starting point of design

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Pastil Chair

$3,335 / item

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

By Fabio Ltd.

Located in Los Angeles, CA

Italian modern chandelier or flushmount shown with smoked amber curved glass shade with a beveled

Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Materials

Brass

Icon Chandelier by Fabio Ltd

$7,500 / item

Iconic Venini Esprit Chandelier, 1970

By Venini

Located in Rome, IT

This striking esprit chandelier was produced by Venini during the 1970s. Explosion of flowers, made with amber and clear precious Murano glasses. Chrome frame and hardware. Availab...

Category

Vintage 1960s European Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Glass

Iconic Venini Esprit Chandelier, 1970

$21,465

Iconic Italian Spaghetti Bar Chairs, 1970s, Italy

Located in Hagenbach, DE

Iconic Italian Spaghetti Bar Chairs, 1970s, Italy Wear consistent with age and use. Measurements

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal

Iconic Italian Spaghetti Bar Chairs, 1970s, Italy

$1,800

Iconic Vintage Robert Sonneman Saturn Table Lamp

By Robert Sonneman

Located in Hopewell, NJ

Iconic midcentury Sonneman “Saturn” lamp originally designed by George Kovacs having round glass

Category

1990s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Iconic Vintage Robert Sonneman Saturn Table Lamp

$750

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Tomato Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

Eero has always been drawn to the circular form and is perhaps best known for his designs ‘without edges’. The Tomato chair combines three circles on a basic seat, with two as armres...

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio White Tomato Chair

$5,188 / item

Iconic Eero Aarnio Red Tomato Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

Eero has always been drawn to the circular form and is perhaps best known for his designs ‘without edges’. The Tomato chair combines three circles on a basic seat, with two as armres...

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Fiberglass

Iconic Eero Aarnio Red Tomato Chair

$5,188 / item

Schumacher Iconic Leopard Wallpaper in Ink

By Schumacher

Located in New York, NY

We first introduced this sexy pattern in the 1970s. In almost a dozen colors, it's endlessly chic. Since Schumacher was founded in 1889, our family-owned company has been synonymous...

Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Wallpaper

Materials

Paper

Schumacher Iconic Leopard Wallpaper in Ink

$378 / item

Iconic Danish Midcentury Rosewood Dining Table

By H. Sigh Søns Møbelfabrik AS, Helge Vestergaard-Jensen

Located in London, GB

This table is 190cm long when extended and 140cm long when butterfly extension leaf is folded under the table top. All surfaces have been lightly sanded to even out any variation in ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Dining Room Tables

Materials

Hardwood

Iconic Danish Midcentury Rosewood Dining Table

$13,637 Sale Price

40% Off

Finn Juhl Desk, Iconic Danish Design, Relaunched in 2009

By Finn Juhl

Located in Barcelona, Barcelona

Finn Juhl Desk (1945) – Iconic Danish Design, Relaunched in 2009 A timeless piece of Danish design

Category

2010s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tables

Materials

Steel

Finn Juhl Desk, Iconic Danish Design, Relaunched in 2009

$2,638 Sale Price / item

25% Off

Pedro Friedeberg Iconic Wood Hand Chair, 1960s

By Pedro Friedeberg

Located in Uccle, BE

inception of the iconic hand chair. These early examples carved by Gonzalez from the designs of Friedeberg

Category

Mid-20th Century Mexican Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Mahogany

Pedro Friedeberg Iconic Wood Hand Chair, 1960s

$53,662

Set of 8 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler

By Martin Eisler

Located in London, England

Set of 8 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler

Category

Vintage 1950s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Cane, Hardwood

Set of 8 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler

$96,426 / set

Set of 7 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler

By Martin Eisler

Located in London, England

Set of 7 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler upholstered in Loro Piana

Category

Vintage 1950s Brazilian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Cane, Hardwood

Set of 7 Iconic Chairs by Martin Eisler

Price Upon Request

Iconic Eero Aarnio Silver Bubble Chair

By Eero Aarnio

Located in New York, NY

The bubble chair was designed by Eero Aarnio in 1968. According to Eero’s notes, the bubble hangs from the ceiling because ‘there is no nice way to make a clear pedestal.’ It shares ...

Category

2010s Finnish Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Stainless Steel

Iconic Eero Aarnio Silver Bubble Chair

$5,681 / item

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Iconic Modern Furniture For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic piece of iconic modern furniture available at 1stDibs. An item from our selection of iconic modern furniture — often made from metal, wood and fabric — can elevate any home. If you’re shopping for a choice in our collection of iconic modern furniture, we have 779 options in-stock, while there are 155 modern editions to choose from as well. You’ve searched high and low for the perfect object in our assortment of iconic modern furniture — we have versions that date back to the 18th Century alongside those produced as recently as the 21st Century are available. Each option in this array of iconic modern furniture bearing Mid-Century Modern, Modern or Scandinavian Modern hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one piece of iconic modern furniture that is appealing in its simplicity, but Terje Ekstrom, Poul Henningsen and Eero Aarnio produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Iconic Modern Furniture?

Prices for a piece of iconic modern furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $1 and can go as high as $79,522, while the average can fetch as much as $2,802.

Questions About Iconic Modern Furniture

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.
What is modern furniture made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Modern furniture is made of many different types of materials. Some modern furniture makers used natural materials like wood for frames and leather and linen for upholstery. Metals, such as aluminum, stainless steel and nickel, were also common, as were some plastics. Explore a diverse assortment of modern furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
What is Danish modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Danish modern furniture is the term for a style of furniture that emerged during the 1930s through the innovation of designers from Denmark. It is a subset of Scandinavian modern furniture, the warmest and most organic iteration of modernist design. The work of the designers associated with vintage Scandinavian modern furniture was founded on centuries-old beliefs in both quality craftsmanship and the ideal that beauty should enhance even the humblest accessories of daily life. Some notable Danish modern designers include Hans J. Wegner, Kaare Klint, Arne Jacobsen, Finn Juhl, Arne Vodder and Verner Panton. Shop a range of Danish modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What is modern furniture design?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 8, 2024
Modern furniture design is an overarching term for the new approach that designers began taking in the early 20th century. Many experts cite the Bauhaus movement as the start of the modern era. Its style was defined by the instructors and students at a progressive German art and design school founded by the architect Walter Gropius that operated from 1919 to 1933. In Bauhaus-style furniture, the school’s followers married industrial and natural materials in simple, geometric forms. The goal of the Bauhaus was to erase the distinction between art and craft while embracing the use of new technologies and materials. As the Bauhaus movement was emerging, so too was Art Deco. This iconic movement made an indelible mark on all fields of design throughout the 1920s and ’30s, celebrating society’s growing industrialization with refined elegance and stunning craftsmanship. Art Deco furniture makers respected the dark woods and modern metals with which they worked; they frequently incorporated decorative embellishments such as exotic animal hides as well as veneers in their seating, case pieces, living room sets and bedroom furniture. After World War II, modern design continued with the mid-century modern movement. The style 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. Historians typically say that the modern approach to furniture design ended in the mid-1960s or early 1970s. Pieces made after that time may be called postmodern or contemporary. Shop a large collection of modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What is modern style furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Modern style furniture has smooth shiny surfaces, straight lines, simple shapes. The general objective is a simple uncluttered look.
What is the difference between modern furniture and old furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 7, 2024
The difference between modern furniture and old furniture is in the specificity of the term. Generally, pieces considered modern date from between the end of World War II in 1945 and the end of the 1970s. During this period, more furniture makers mass produced pieces, and designers increasingly used new materials, such as plywood and plastic. Old furniture is not a specific term. People frequently use the term old for anything that subjectively appears aged. Explore a large selection of modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What is mid century modern furniture?
2 Answers
1stDibs ExpertMay 22, 2019
Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
Mid century modern furniture refers to pieces designed during the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.
Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What year is mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.
What defines mid-century modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.
What type of wood is used in Danish modern furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 11, 2019
The material typically used in Danish modern furniture is teak.
Who were the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.
What material did Marcel Breuer introduce to modern furniture design?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 22, 2022
Marcel Breuer introduced the material of tubular steel to modern furniture design. He employed it in many of his chairs, tables and sofas, prizing the material because it minimized the weight of pieces without sacrificing their strength. Shop a range of Marcel Breuer furniture on 1stDibs.

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