Mid Century Atomic
to
163
1,032
303
1,367
19
7
1,258
13
10
5
4
2
1,367
26
2
994
139
1
9
269
280
98
12
2
948
380
317
298
168
722
677
483
109
108
1,389
1,383
1,383
25
24
16
15
15
Sort By
Mid Century Modern Lux Robert Shaw Fulton Brass Atomic Sunburst Wall Clock 28"
Located in Dayton, OH
Mid 20th century electric / plug in wall hanging clock. Mid century modern / atomic brass sunburst
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Brass
Lucite and Wood Danish Kinetic Atomic Sculpture Mid-Century Modern
Located in North Miami, FL
This Mid-Century Modern Danish ebonized wood base and mustard yellow Lucite kinetic sculpture moves
Category
Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Mobiles and Kinetic Sculptures
Materials
Wood
Mid Century Modern Dazor Saucer Desk Lamp. Atomic Age Lighting
By Dazor
Located in Peoria, AZ
This Exquisite Dazor Mid Century Saucer Desk lamp
is an iconic treasure from the glorious 1950s
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
American Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Brass and Metal Lamp
By Frederic Weinberg
Located in San Diego, CA
A classic mid-century we resprayed the base and left the original lampshade in original condition
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal, Brass
Mid-Century Modern Six Light Sputnik Atomic Circular Chandelier
Located in West Hartford, CT
Iconic six light sputnik chandelier circa 1970's. Wired for USA and in perfect working order. The six sputnik bulbs form an atom which is round and connected by center pole. The dime...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Chrome
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Atomic Era Yellow
Green Vinyl Bar Stools, Set of 6
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Mid-Century Modern atomic era yellow & green vinyl bar stools - set of 6. Item features a
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Iron
Large Vintage 1950s Mid-Century Modern Atomic Space Age Aluminium Planter Urn
Located in Lafayette, IN
This stunning Mid-Century planter stands a full 24" tall and is a single piece of solid, cast
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Planters, Cachepots and Jardin...
Materials
Aluminum
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Atomic Walnut Pottery Table Lamps
Located in Wilmington, DE
Offered is a retro pair of Mid-Century Modern table lamps, made with walnut and a white textured
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Pottery, Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Brass and Walnut Atomic Starburst Wall Mirror
Located in Wilmington, DE
. See our other listings for more Mid-Century Modern decor and furniture!
Dimensions: 26.5" x 26.5".
Category
Vintage 1960s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Imperial Grand Rapids Atomic Era 2 Tier Laminate End Tables - a Pair
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Mid Century Modern Imperial Grand Rapids Atomic Era 2 Tier Laminate End Tables - a Pair. Item
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern End Tables
Materials
Laminate, Wood
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Spun Fiberglass and Teak Atomic Lamps
Located in Hamilton, Ontario
Pair of Mid-Century Modern spun fiberglass and teak atomic lamps.
Category
Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Fiberglass
2 Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Iron Bar Stools Vinyl Seat Retro Pair MCM
Located in Dayton, OH
Atomic era bar stools. Made from wrought iron with a vinyl seat. Features a round seat over 4 legs
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Wrought Iron
1950s Small Mid-Century Desk Top Oscillating Fan Atomic Age
By Happy Home
Located in San Diego, CA
Nice small oscillating fan, with polished aluminium blades the fan has been totally restored, the blades polished oiled the motor rewire it, resprayed in black the grill, its in perf...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern More Furniture and Collectibles
Materials
Metal, Aluminum
Mid-Century Modern Brass and Walnut Atomic Starburst Wall Mirror
Located in Wilmington, DE
alternating walnut and brass spokes with atomic balls and mirror. It is in good condition with some age wear
Category
Vintage 1960s Unknown Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Brass
Vintage Mid Century Modern Yellow Ceramic Table Lamp Original Atomic Pattern S
Located in Weehawken, NJ
Vintage Mid Century Modern table lamp featuring a glossy yellow ceramic base with a sculptural
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Ceramic
Mid Century Tripod Lamp! After Gerald Thurston Lightolier Designer Atomic Decor
By Gerald Thurston
Located in Peoria, AZ
EXQUISITE!
MID CENTURY MODERN
TRIPOD TABLE LAMP
BRASS & LINEN
ATTRIBUTED TO GERALD THURSTON
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Pair Mid Century Modern Tripod Lamps Lightolier Gerald Thurston Atomic 1950s
By Gerald Thurston
Located in Peoria, AZ
EXQUISITE!
PAIR
MID CENTURY MODERN
TRIPOD TABLE LAMPS
BRASS & WOOD
ATTRIBUTED TO GERALD THURSTON
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Kalmar Mid-Century Modern Atomic Style
Sirius
Table Lamp or Pendant
By Kalmar Lighting
Located in Astoria, NY
Kalmar Mid-Century Modern Atomic style 'Sirius' chrome table lamp, model 21 BL, made during the
Category
Vintage 1970s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Chrome
Italian Amorphic Mid-Century Modern Atomic Bowed Shield Form Brass Mirror
Located in New York, NY
This stunning and sophisticated Mid-Century Modern shield form mirror was realized in Italy, circa
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Brass
Sculptural Atomic Mid-Century Modern Pair of Side Chairs in Fiberglass
By Eliel Saarinen
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration, Sculptural Atomic Mid-Century Modern pair of side chairs in fiberglass
Category
Vintage 1970s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Side Chairs
Materials
Faux Leather, Fiberglass
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Brass, Black Enamel
Etched/ Frosted Glass Chandelier
Located in New York, NY
This graphic and elegant atomic Mid-Century Modern chandelier was realized in Italy, circa 1950. It
Category
Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass, Enamel
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Beveled Mirror with Dovetailed Corners
Nickel Rivets
Located in New York, NY
any style of interior from classic Mid-Century Modern to contemporary. Excellent vintage condition
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Wall Mirrors
Materials
Nickel
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Atomic Teal Kroehler Pencil Leg Club Chairs
By Kroehler Mfg. Co.
Located in Wilmington, DE
Pair of ball and claw fireside wingback chairs by Thomasville
Offered is a pair of Mid-Century
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Club Chairs
Materials
Upholstery
Mid Century Modern Black Screen Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Lightolier
By Lightolier
Located in Peoria, AZ
ICONIC!
ATOMIC AGE
MID CENTURY MODERN
TRI-COLOR
TENSION POLE LAMP!
EPIC "SCREEN CONE" DESIGN
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Style Sunburst Atomic Wall Clock By Kenneth Wingard
Located in Brooklyn, NY
clocks we all remember. Produced in the 2000s, it is a perfect addition to any mid-century modern
Category
Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Metal
Pair of Mid Century Danish Modern Woodard Atomic Orange Sculptura Arm Chairs
By Woodard Furniture Co., John Woodard
Located in Wilmington, DE
Offered is a pair of Mid-Century Danish Modern Woodard Atomic orange sculptura arm chairs designed
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Wrought Iron
1950
s American Mid Century Modern Atomic Age Rare Bauer Planter
Base
By Bauer Pottery, Adrian Pearsall
Located in San Diego, CA
This unique American Mid-Century Modern, atomic age Architectural planter with black Laquer Adrian
Category
20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Architectural Elements
Materials
Ceramic, Wood
Mid-Century Modern Robert Haussmann Chrome Atomic Chandelier Light Fixture 60s
By Robert Haussmann
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
For your consideration is an incredible, "atomic," chrome light fixture or chandelier, by Robert
Category
Vintage 1960s Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Robert Haussmann Atomic Hexagon Suspension Lamp in Aluminium
By Robert Haussmann
Located in Madrid, ES
Haussmann Atomic Lamp is a stunning lighting fixture that seamlessly blends mid-century modern design with
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Aluminum
Mid-Century Modern Cassina Sculptural Atomic Chrome Dining Table Base, Italy
By Cassina
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
For your consideration is a funky, chrome, atomic dining table base, by Cassina Italy, circa 1970s
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Pedestals
Materials
Chrome
Mid Century Modern Tension Pole Lamp Atomic Rocket Torpedo Shades 1950 Decor
By Stiffel
Located in Peoria, AZ
GORGEOUS!
MID CENTURY MODERN
"TORPEDO" SHADE
ALUMINUM ARTICULATING
TENSION POLE LAMP!
CIRCA 1958
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
Mid Century Modern Pink Tension Pole Lamp. Atomic 1950s Floor Brass Stiffel
By Stiffel
Located in Peoria, AZ
AMAZING!
ATOMIC SPACE AGE
MID CENTURY MODERN
TENSION POLE LAMP!
Pink enamel, Brass & Perspex
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Atomic Orange Samsonite Outdoor Scoop Seat Armchairs
By Samsonite
Located in Wilmington, DE
atomic orange color and include original upholstery.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Steel
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Atomic Orange Outdoor Metal Curved Back Chairs
By John Woodard
Located in Wilmington, DE
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Atomic orange outdoor metal curved back chairs
Offered is a pair of
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Metal
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Style Large Atomic Hanging Saucer Bubble Lamp
By George Nelson
Located in Chicago, IL
Mid Century Modern George Nelson Style Large Atomic Hanging Saucer Bubble Lamp
George Nelson
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal
American Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Small Patio Round Coffee Table
Located in San Diego, CA
Retro modern iron round coffee cocktail patio table with hairpin legs and perforated top the table has been sandblasted and powder coated in a charcoal finish, the three hairpin legs...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Wrought Iron
Mid-Century Modern Round Iron and Marble Coffee Table Atomic Age
Located in San Diego, CA
Simple elegant solid enameled iron coffee table base with a round beveled edge marble top, nice great design and good condition no chips or cracks.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Marble, Iron
American Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Desk Chair by Good Form
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful single desk/side chair by good form in brushed steel legs and frame with freshly recover seta and back, in Knoll red fabric excellent work on the upholstery new foam. Solid...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Corner Chairs
Materials
Steel
French Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Iron and Teak Magazine Rack
By Mathieu Matégot
Located in San Diego, CA
Elegant and unique magazine rack with wood basket and red painted ball feet, circa 1950s, freshly restored with carry on handle.
Category
20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Magazine Racks and Stands
Materials
Iron
1950
s American Mid-Century Modern Atomic Age Hairpin Legs Stool
By Alexander Girard
Located in San Diego, CA
Versatile Upholstered Seat with solid iron hairpin legs and petite stool. circa 1950's with original fabric by Alexander Girard, simple design all original condition light faded fabr...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Iron
Pair of American Mid Century Hairpin Legs Low Stools Atomic Age
By Frederic Weinberg
Located in San Diego, CA
Great pair of hairpin legs enameled metal frame low stools , circa 1950's freshly upholstered in Herman Miller fabric by Alexander Girard, nice original finish , with light rust we w...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Metal
1950s Mid-Century Organic Louis Sognot style Vintage Atomic Boomerang Table
By Louis Sognot
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Showing some nice patina on the wood surfaces.
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Oak
Mid Century Wall Clock Weather Station by Sumbeam Atomic Space Age
Located in San Diego, CA
A classic space age clock weather station by Sumbeam thermometer , clock and barometer cream color plastic case with chome rings.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Chrome
Lightolier 1960s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Chandelier 30 Glass Globes
By Lightolier
Located in West Hartford, CT
Coveted Mid-Century Modern lightolier 30 light sputnik chandelier, circa 1960s. Features 30
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Lightolier 1960s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Chandelier 30 Glass Globes
By Lightolier
Located in West Hartford, CT
Coveted Mid-Century Modern Lightolier 30 light Sputnik chandelier, circa 1960s. Features 30
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Set of Three Lightolier 1960s Mid-Century Modern Sputnik Atomic Chandelier
By Lightolier
Located in West Hartford, CT
Coveted set of three matching Mid-Century Modern Lightolier thirty-light Sputnik chandeliers, circa
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Era Brass Base Laminate Italian Style Writing Desk
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Vintage Mid-Century Modern Atomic Era brass base laminate Italian style writing desk. Item features
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables
Materials
Brass, Steel
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Bottemiller Atomic Orange Siesta Chaise Lounge Chairs
By Homecrest
Located in Wilmington, DE
What a find. Offered is a pair of vintage Mid-Century Modern high-back Riviera Siesta Rocker patio
Category
Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Metal
Pair of Maurice Ascalon Mid-Century Modern
Atomic Snail
Ashtrays, circa 1950
By Maurice Ascalon
Located in Ottawa, Ontario
Both bronze bodies showing planished interiors and enamelled exteriors, raised on twin pronged supports, the undersides bearing stamped 'Pal Bell' factory marks.
Designed by industr...
Category
Mid-20th Century Israeli Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories
Materials
Bronze, Enamel
American Mid Century modern tall table lamp by Heifetz Atomic age
By Heifetz Rotaflex
Located in San Diego, CA
Striking tall and rare lamp designed by Heifetz with a plastic corrugated shade by Rotoflex, circa 1960s great condition push off/on switch, the wood base its refinished and perforat...
Category
Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Balls
Brass Pendant Lamp by Doria, 1960s Germany
By Doria Leuchten Germany
Located in Hagenbach, DE
Mid-Century Modern atomic balls & brass pendant lamp by Doria, 1960s Germany
Magnificent design
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Unusual Mid-Century Modern Table Lamp by Majestic Lamp, Original Atomic Shades
By Majestic Lamp Company
Located in Buffalo, NY
Unusual Mid-Century Modern table lamp by Majestic Lamp Co. Classic modernist design, truly a piece
Category
Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Brass
Hago Mid Century 1950
s Atomic coat stand with yellow plastic bobbles
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Hago Atomic black enameled metal coat stand with Yellow plastic bobbles and metal ring for
Category
Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Modern Atomic Starburst France Vintage Wall Clock by Forestville
By Forestville
Located in Chula Vista, CA
For your consideration: Mid-Century Modern atomic starburst France, wall clock by Forestville
Category
Vintage 1960s French Modern Wall Clocks
Materials
Brass
The "Atomic" Mid Century Triangular Coffee Table by Pierre Guariche
Located in New York, NY
A wonderful triangular Butterfly style coffee table from France by Pierre Guariche. The glass top is mounted by brass caps that hold to the angular rod base.
Category
Vintage 1950s French Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Steel
Mid Century Modern Tension Pole Lamp Atomic Triennale Tri-Color 1950 Decor Light
By Stiffel
Located in Peoria, AZ
GORGEOUS!
MID CENTURY MODERN
TRI-COLOR
ALUMINUM ARTICULATING
TENSION POLE LAMP!
CIRCA 1957
FITS 8
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Metal
Chrome Eyeball Atomic Orbiter Mid Century Modern Table lamp Circa 1970
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
An eyeball atomic orbiter table lamp circa 1970. This is a lovely mid century modern table lamp
Category
Vintage 1970s Table Lamps
Materials
Chrome
- 1
- ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Atomic", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.
Mid Century Atomic For Sale on 1stDibs
At 1stDibs, there are many versions of the ideal mid century atomic for your home. Frequently made of metal, wood and brass, every mid century atomic was constructed with great care. There are 479 variations of the antique or vintage mid century atomic you’re looking for, while we also have 7 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. Your living room may not be complete without a mid century atomic — find older editions for sale from the 20th Century and newer versions made as recently as the 21st Century. Each mid century atomic bearing Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco or Scandinavian Modern hallmarks is very popular. You’ll likely find more than one mid century atomic that is appealing in its simplicity, but Temde Leuchten, J.T. Kalmar and Lightolier produced versions that are worth a look.
How Much is a Mid Century Atomic?
The average selling price for a mid century atomic at 1stDibs is $1,450, while they’re typically $175 on the low end and $31,000 for the highest priced.
A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture
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
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
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.
Questions About Mid Century Atomic
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The 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.
- What is a mid-century sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A 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.
- What is mid-century artwork?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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.
- What is mid century decor?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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.
- What is a mid-century chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A 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.
- What is mid century furniture?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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.
- What is mid-century jewelry?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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.
- What does mid century mean?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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.
- Are the 1970s mid-century?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
- Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, 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.
- 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, 2021Mid 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. - 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024The years that encompass the mid-century modern period are roughly 1933 until 1965, but most experts argue, however, that the mid-century modern era correlates specifically to the years following World War II. These years in America saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history. Vintage mid-century modern furniture — including tables, chairs, desks and case pieces — are often organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple.
Postwar architects and designers in the United States were animated by new ideas and new technology during the era of mid-century modernism. Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century furniture designs manufactured by the likes of Knoll and Herman Miller.
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.
Knoll became 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 soon became desirable for the home. Similarly, Michigan’s Herman Miller is best known for its iconic mid-century modern furniture, and while the company focused on the office, people loved its designs for their homes, too.
Find vintage mid-century modern furniture for sale on 1stDibs. - 1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and 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. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023A 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.
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, 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.
Read More
A Basket-Weave Pattern Adds Country Charm to Paolo Buffa’s Elegant Cabinet
With its grid-like doors and wavy trim, the 1940s design feels as fresh as ever.
This Paavo Tynell Chandelier Is a Radiant Bouquet
The alluring pendant light exemplifies the designer’s winsome mid-career work.
End Your Quest for Fire with This Handmade Majolica Chimney
Prehistoric motifs give the mid-century Italian fireplace an elemental feel.
Who Were Guillerme et Chambron? French Veterans of WWII with a Knack for Clever, Quirky and Livable Furniture
Their charming solid-oak pieces offer homes utility and comfort.
39 Incredible Swimming Pools
It's hard to resist the allure of a beautiful pool. So, go ahead and daydream about whiling away your summer in paradise.
The 21 Most Popular Mid-Century Modern Chairs
You know the designs, now get the stories about how they came to be.
Iconic Furniture Makes This 1958 Midwestern Home a True Mid-Century Gem
Designer Susan Yeley turned to 1stDibs to outfit an Indiana home with standout pieces that complement its modernist style.
The Ultimate Guide to Types of Tables for the Home
Whether you’re just moving in or ready to give your home a makeover, our guide will give you pointers on tables that are fitting for every room, nook and hallway.
More Ways To Browse
Vintage Mesh Top
Bullet Shaker
Petite Etagere
Grand Server
Red Wing Pottery Vintage
Mid Century Starburst Clock
Used Furniture Springfield
Atomic Fish
Mid Century Atomic Clock
1950s Fiberglass Desk Lamp
Culver Shot Glasses
Eames Lamp
Galvanized Shelf
Knoll Desk Lamp
Metal Wire Shelf
Round Mid Century Nightstand
Vintage Wire Shelf Rack
Atomic Ice Bucket