Question 1

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 2

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture 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. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 3

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century furniture is furniture created within the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would argue that the style began to emerge in the postwar years. This style of furniture is known for its sleek lines and organic shapes. The creators most frequently associated with mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living. Mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century jewelry is a style of jewelry that rose in popularity along with the mid-century modern design movement. Pieces from this era typically feature bold, geometric designs. Shop a variety of mid-century jewelry and accessories from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

The mid-century modern style emerged primarily in the years following World War II. This style of decor is characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Creators of mid-century modern furniture believed that good design meant good living, and mid-century modern is today by far the largest category of furnishings on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century sofa is any sofa created during the mid-20th century. Mid-century modern sofas are pieces of seating furniture that embody the venturesome attributes that we associate with mid-century modern furniture — while not all sofas designed in the mid-century modern style are the same, they frequently have a low profile and are characterized by gentle curves, clean lines and an organic shape. Mid-century furniture is a timeless classic due to its elegant simplicity. Shop a collection of antique, vintage, and contemporary mid-century sofas from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century artwork is any piece of art produced during the middle of the 20th century. It includes paintings, drawings, prints, sculptures, collages, pottery and other media. You'll find a large selection of mid-century artwork from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern decor was popularized during the period of 1933 to 1965 but most would suggest that the style emerged during the years that followed World War II. This style of decor is typically characterized by sleek lines, organic forms, minimal ornamentation and high functionality. Find the finest mid-century modern furnishings and more on 1stDibs.

Question 9

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if furniture is mid-century modern, examine the piece, looking for labels and markings that indicate who produced it. Then, consult trusted online resources to determine when the maker was active and what styles of furniture they made. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. A knowledgeable dealer or certified appraiser can help you determine if a particular piece is genuine mid-century modern or a reproduction. Shop a range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 10

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a chair is mid-century, look for labels and markings that indicate its maker. Then, use trusted online resources to determine when the company was active. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can be of assistance when dating chairs. Iconic mid-century modern furniture designers include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi. Find a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

To identify mid-century lamps, look for a manufacturer's label or stamp on the base or the shade. You can use trusted online resources to determine when the company or artisan was active. Some lamps may also have a date stamp that you can use for identification purposes. Pieces dating from the late 1950s through the early 1970s are mid-century in terms of their age. A mid-century modern lamp will show off hallmarks of the design style, such as curvy hourglass or globe forms. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer may also be able to help with the identification. Find a range of mid-century lamps on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

Most experts agree that mid-century modern correlates specifically to the years following World War II. It has grown in popularity in the decades since, particularly due to the media and cultural institutions that have promoted the truly innovative era of design. Not only did the MoMA promote modern furniture, but pieces are prominently visible on the set of very popular television shows such as Mad Men. Shop a wide and beautiful range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 13

What makes a dresser mid-century?

Accepted Answer

A dresser is a mid-century dresser if it was made during the middle of the 20th century. The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern period correlates specifically to the years following World War II. Mid-century modern dressers will likely have specific characteristics. There was a use of natural and man-made materials that included alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak as well as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. An authentic mid-century modern dresser will also be characterized by simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Shop an assortment of vintage mid-century dressers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some rattan is mid-century modern. Designers of the mid-century modern movement often preferred to use natural materials, including rattan, in their designs. However, not all rattan furniture was made during this period. Rattan was also a popular material for furniture produced during the Victorian era and continues to be used to produce furniture today. Shop a wide range of rattan furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 15

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

Mid-century is considered the middle of the century, however as it pertains to furniture and design, mid-century is an American design movement known for its modern style, construction and the Modernist movement. It is typically simple and clean lines without embellishments. Shop a range of mid-century modern designs on 1stDIbs.

Question 16

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Mondrian’s art is believed to be one of the great inspirations for the mid-century modern approach to minimalism. His artworks were not just a departure from figurative works, but a new look at abstract art as well. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 17

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, mid-century modern is timeless, in the opinion of many experts. Many characteristics of furniture and decorative accents produced in this style remain popular today. Among them are silhouettes marked by organic forms and clean lines, the promotion of functionality and the use of natural materials like teak, rosewood and oak and synthetic materials such as steel, fiberglass and molded plywood. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of mid-century modern furniture.

Question 18

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to 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.

Question 19

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Eames is mid-century modern. In many ways, Charles Eames and Ray Eames were the embodiment of the inventiveness, energy and optimism at the heart of mid-century modern American design, and they have been recognized as the most influential designers of the 20th century. Some of the couple's most famous mid-century modern designs include the Eames Lounge chair and ottoman, the Eames Molded Plywood chair and the Eames Fiberglass chair. Shop a wide range of Charles and Ray Eames furniture on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Abstract

1950s American Modern Mixed Media

Gene Hedge"Untitled" Gene Hedge, Mid Century, Abstract Collage, Urban Materials, Modernist, circa 1958

1960s American Modern Mixed Media

Gene Hedge"Untitled" Gene Hedge, Modernist, Mid-Century, Abstract Collage, Dark Colors, 1963

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern More Carpets

Midcentury Abstract Design Geometric Rug / Carpet, 1970s / Czechoslovakia

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern More Carpets

Midcentury Abstract Design Geometric Rug / Carpet, 1970s / Czechoslovakia

1950s Modern Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Jane Freilicher"Untitled I" Jane Freilicher, Hamptons Landscape Drawing, Mid-century Abstract, 1958-59

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Figurative Paintings

Brita HanssonVintage Mid Century Abstract Figurative Oil Painting - Picnic Under the Pines, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Paintings

An original mid century abstract painting, oil on canvas, circa 1950

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Figurative Paintings

Sylvia Rutkoff"Girl with Beret" Impasto Mid Century Abstract Expressionism NYC Female Artist, 1950s

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sculptures and Carvings

Mid Century Abstract Nail Sculpture by Artist Dave Grossman Titled "SKYSCRAPER"

Vintage 1960s Israeli Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Aharon Kahana Israeli Artist Signed Large Original Mid-Century Abstract Painting

1940s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Antique American Abstract Expressionist Large Framed New York City Oil Painting, 1950

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Prints

Helen Frankenthaler Color Lithograph Mid Century Abstract Art 29" x 22"

1960s Abstract Paintings

M. Rosera Abstract in Coral and Ivory , Mid-century Modernist Abstraction in Warm Colors, 1963

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Collectible Jewelry

Jack Boyd Sculptural Bronze Necklace Mid Century Abstract Art To Wear

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Swedish Mid-Century Abstract Marquetry 3-Legged Coffee Table, ca. 1950s

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid-Century Abstract Mixed-Media Painting by Diana Diamond, California, 1968

Vintage 1960s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Pal Kepenyes Modernist Bronze Bull Sculpture Mid Century Abstract Modern Art

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Kenneth MunowitzAntique American Large Abstract Expressionist Framed Rare Oil Painting, 1960

Late 20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Mid-Century Still Life, c. 1956

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Large Antique American Abstract Expressionist Vintage Signed Framed Oil Painting, 1960

Mid-20th Century American Paintings

Mid-Century Abstract Painting Town Landscape in a Rustic Black Wood Frame

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Jeffrey Simpson"Blend" - Mid Century Modern Abstract Color Movement, 1965

1950s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Kenneth MunowitzImportant and Large Antique American Abstract Expressionist Framed Oil Painting, 1950

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Hans Burkhardt Signed Swiss California Original Midcentury Abstract Painting

Mid-20th Century Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Abstract Expressionist mi-century modern painting, 1962

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Midcentury Abstract Portrait Painting of a Woman, American, 1957

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Midcentury Abstract Portrait Painting of a Woman, American, 1951

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Carstens Tönnieshof West German Midcentury Abstract Trailed Design Bowl

1940s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Large Antique American Signed Abstract Sandy Beach Scene Framed Oil Painting, 1950

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Midcentury Abstract / Impressionist Painting by Herbert Buckley, circa 1940

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Midcentury Abstract "Lovers" Figural Wall Relief Sculpture, circa 1960

Mid-20th Century North American Table Lamps

Midcentury Abstract Black Glazed Ceramic Boudoir Lamps - A Pair

1960s Abstract Expressionist Abstract Paintings

Rita MccarthyAntique American Modernist Abstract Still Life Large Modernist Oil Painting, 1960

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Midcentury Abstract Expressionism Still Life Oil Painting Signed J. Haymson

1950s Abstract Abstract Paintings

Antique American Monumental Op Art Framed Abstract Color Field Oil Painting, 1960

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Mid Century Abstract Expressionist Acrylic Painting by Jules Granowitz c. 1950 s

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

Large Mid Century Abstract Painting by Jules Granowitter c 1950/1960 s

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount

Mid Century Abstract Flower Glass Wall Lamp or Ceiling Light, 1960s, Germany

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Vintage Mid-Century Abstract Ceramic Plate by David Gil for Bennington Pottery

1940s Modern Abstract Paintings

Gene Hedge
"Untitled" Gene Hedge, Mid Century, Abstract Collage, Urban Materials, Modernist, circa 1958

Gene Hedge
"Untitled" Gene Hedge, Modernist, Mid-Century, Abstract Collage, Dark Colors, 1963

Jane Freilicher
"Untitled I" Jane Freilicher, Hamptons Landscape Drawing, Mid-century Abstract, 1958-59

Brita Hansson
Vintage Mid Century Abstract Figurative Oil Painting - Picnic Under the Pines, 1950s

Sylvia Rutkoff
"Girl with Beret" Impasto Mid Century Abstract Expressionism NYC Female Artist, 1950s

M. Rosera
Abstract in Coral and Ivory , Mid-century Modernist Abstraction in Warm Colors, 1963

Kenneth Munowitz
Antique American Large Abstract Expressionist Framed Rare Oil Painting, 1960

Jeffrey Simpson
"Blend" - Mid Century Modern Abstract Color Movement, 1965

Kenneth Munowitz
Important and Large Antique American Abstract Expressionist Framed Oil Painting, 1950

Rita Mccarthy
Antique American Modernist Abstract Still Life Large Modernist Oil Painting, 1960

Erwin Wending
Exhibited Abstract Expressionist Framed Modernist Street Scene Signed Painting, 1950

Gian Luigi Campanile
"White Roses in Vase" Mid-Century Abstract Floral Oil Painting on Canvas Framed, Mid-20th Century

Giselle Jeanine Shaha
Aurora Abstract , Sunnyvale, California Woman artist, Mid-Century Modernist oil, 1969

Marguerite Blasingame
Evening on the Pier looking into the Tunnel - Mid Century Abstract Landscape, 1945