Question 1

Is Art Deco mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco is not mid-century modern. Art Deco began just before World War I and was inspired by cubism. Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality.

Question 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Mid Century Art

Mid-20th Century Canadian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Chalet Art Glass Freeform Green Sommerso Vase 1960s

Vintage 1940s Italian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets

Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sideboards Table Chairs Sets by Paolo Buffa

Vintage 1930s Belgian Art Deco Hat Racks and Stands

Art Deco "Monseigneur" type hat/wig holder, Belgium ca. 1930

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases

2 Pc. Nils Landberg for Orrefors Grey and Clear Sommerso Vases

Mid-20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Vases

West German Mid-Century Pottery Red Lava Glazed Pitcher Vase

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Vintage Murano Vase, Italian, Art Glass, Fruit Dish, Planter Bowl, Mid Century

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Mid Century Japanese Ceramic Horse and Boy Sculpture

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Paintings

French Mid 20th CenturyProvencal Hilltop Village in Landscape Mid 20th Century French Oil Painting

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Vases

French Mid-Century Layered Art Glass Vase by Raymond Branly, 1950s–1960s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Anne Marie Migette PerardMid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Pencil Drawing of Woman on Park Bench

20th Century Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Postmodern Chrome Glass Desk table Lamp

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Mid-Century Modern Dandelion Sputnik Chandelier, by Kamenicky Senov, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modernist Pendant Necklaces

Vintage 18k Lapis Lazuli Diamond Pendant Brooch Pin Brutalist Solid Yellow Gold

Antique Early 19th Century French Art Deco Wine Coolers

French Art Deco Silver plated brass Ice Bucket, 1900s

Late 20th Century French Art Deco Wine Coolers

Art Deco Silver plated brass Ice Bucket, France 1900s

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Nouveau Console Tables

1930s Italy Art Nouveau Brass Console, wall Mirror side Chairs Gio Ponti Style

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Vases

Clarence E Blackburn Mid-Century Floral Molded Art Pottery Vase

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Drawings and Watercolors

Pierre NeveuRochefort en Terre Brittany Village Street Mid Century Watercolour by Neveu

20th Century French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Wall Lamps Glass Clam shell Sconces gilt bronze White Gold a pair

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Portrait Paintings

Georges-Pierre GuinegaultPost-impressionist portrait of a ballerina, mid-century oil on canvas, 1950 s

1950s Abstract Prints

Norio AzumaMid-Century Modernist Abstract Geometric Screenprint Edition 40/50 "Image No.3", circa 1950

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century French SchoolWinter Landscape - Mid 20th Century French Post Impressionist Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid-20th Century Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century French SchoolTranquil River Landscape - Mid 20th Century French Landscape Oil Painting, c.1960

Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Scheurich Keramik German Mid-Century Lava Glazed Art Pottery Vase

Mid-20th Century Modern Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century British SchoolRoyal Albert Hall - Mid 20th Century Modern British London Landscape Painting, c.1960

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Holmegaard Sonate Aubergine Coulored Glass Pendant by Michael Bang, 1978

Vintage 1970s Danish Chandeliers and Pendants

1970s Copper Chandelier attributed to Jo Hammerborg for Fog Mørup , Denmark

Vintage 1970s Italian Hollywood Regency Table Lamps

Hollywood regency table lamp by Antonio Pavia, 1970s

Mid-20th Century Modern Portrait Paintings

Mid 20th Century French School Portrait of a Lady - Mid Century French Figurative Modernist Oil Painting, c.1960

19th Century Folk Art Figurative Paintings

19th century American Folk ArtMid 19th Century American Folk Art Portrait of Child with Dog in Landscape, Oil

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Bamboo Sofa

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century French SchoolParisian Evening - Mid 20th Century French Post Impressionist Paris Painting, c.1950

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Abstract Paintings

Jenny Belton2024 Contemporary Original Abstract Still Life Oil Painting - Dual, 2024

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Abstract Paintings

Jenny Belton2024 Contemporary Abstract Still Life Acrylic Painting - Plateau, 2024

Mid-20th Century Abstract Abstract Paintings

Mid 20th Century French School Desert Landscape - Abstract French Mid Century Gouache on Canvas Painting, c.1950

Mid-20th Century Landscape Paintings

Mid 20th Century English SchoolTerraced Houses - Mid 20th Century English London Architectural Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid-20th Century Modern Portrait Paintings

Mid 20th Century French SchoolHead of a Boy - Mid 20th Century French Modernist Portrait Oil Painting, c.1960

Antique Mid-19th Century English Victorian Vases

Victorian Cranberry hand-blown Art Glass Vase

1990s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Tall Mid-Century Pair of Sconces in White Glass , Petitot Style Wall Lights

Mid-20th Century Landscape Paintings

French Mid 20th Century
Provencal Hilltop Village in Landscape Mid 20th Century French Oil Painting

Anne Marie Migette Perard
Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Pencil Drawing of Woman on Park Bench

Pierre Neveu
Rochefort en Terre Brittany Village Street Mid Century Watercolour by Neveu

Georges-Pierre Guinegault
Post-impressionist portrait of a ballerina, mid-century oil on canvas, 1950 s

Norio Azuma
Mid-Century Modernist Abstract Geometric Screenprint Edition 40/50 "Image No.3", circa 1950

Mid 20th Century French School
Winter Landscape - Mid 20th Century French Post Impressionist Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Tranquil River Landscape - Mid 20th Century French Landscape Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century British School
Royal Albert Hall - Mid 20th Century Modern British London Landscape Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Portrait of a Lady - Mid Century French Figurative Modernist Oil Painting, c.1960

19th century American Folk Art
Mid 19th Century American Folk Art Portrait of Child with Dog in Landscape, Oil

Mid 20th Century French School
Parisian Evening - Mid 20th Century French Post Impressionist Paris Painting, c.1950

Jenny Belton
2024 Contemporary Original Abstract Still Life Oil Painting - Dual, 2024

Jenny Belton
2024 Contemporary Abstract Still Life Acrylic Painting - Plateau, 2024

Mid 20th Century French School
Desert Landscape - Abstract French Mid Century Gouache on Canvas Painting, c.1950

Mid 20th Century English School
Terraced Houses - Mid 20th Century English London Architectural Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Head of a Boy - Mid 20th Century French Modernist Portrait Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century Italian School
Bay of Naples - Large Mid 20th Century Italian Coastal Seascape Oil Painting, c.1950

British Mid 20th Century
Large Mid 20th Century Signed Oil Painting Still Life Flowers in Interior

Mid 20th Century Italian School
Market Day - Mid 20th Century Italian Impressionist Town Street Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Café de la Gare - Mid 20th Century French Expressionist Figurative Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Lunch in the Square - Large Mid 20th Century French Impressionist Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Portrait of a Black Woman - Mid 20th Century French Oil on Board Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Boats on a River - Mid 20th Century French Impressionist Landscape Oil Painting, c.1950

Mid 20th Century French School
West End Hotel, Nice - Mid 20th Century French South France Riviera Oil Painting, c.1960

Jenny Belton
2024 Contemporary Abstract Still Life Acrylic Painting - Goes Up, Comes Down, 2024

Mid 20th Century Swedish School
Flower Market - Mid 20th Century Swedish Modern Figurative Oil Painting, 1972

Mid 20th Century French School
On the French Coast - Large Mid 20th Century French Naif Naive Boats Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
La Rue Deserte - Mid 20th Century French Town Naive Naif Oil on Canvas Painting, c.1960

Jenny Belton
2024 Contemporary Original Abstract Still Life Acrylic Painting - Half Life, 2024

Mid 20th Century Swedish School
Self Portrait - Mid 20th Century Swedish Modernist Cubist Artist Oil Painting, 1954

Mid 20th Century English School
Flowers, Cat Book - Mid 20th Century English Post Impressionist Oil Painting, c.1960

Mid 20th Century French School
Fruits in a Bowl - Mid Century French Post Impressionist Still Life Oil Painting, c.1960