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

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.

What is a mid-century chair?

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.

What is mid century furniture?

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.

What is mid-century jewelry?

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.

What does mid century mean?

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.

What is a mid-century sofa?

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.

What is mid-century artwork?

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.

What is mid century decor?

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.

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

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.

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

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.

How do you identify mid century lamps?

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.

Why is mid century modern popular?

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.

What makes a dresser mid-century?

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.

Is rattan mid-century modern?

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.

What time is considered mid-century??

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.

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

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.

Is mid-century modern timeless?

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.

What does mid century modern mean?

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.

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.

Is Eames mid-century modern?

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 Cutlery

Stainless Steel Cutlery

Silver Cutlery For 12 Set

Austrian Amboss Cutlery

Austria Stainless

Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Serving Tables

Materials

Metal

Concorde cutlery set by Raymond Loewy for Air France, Set of 12 pieces

$1,068 / set

Full Set Scanline Bronze Cutlery Flatware by Prince Sigvard Bernadotte, 109 Pcs

By Sigvard Bernadotte

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Former Prince of Sweden Sigvard Bernadotte (1907-2002) designed this bronze flatware service for 12 persons. It was manufactured by Scanline in Scandinavia during the 1950s. The set ...

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Bronze

Full Set Scanline Bronze Cutlery Flatware by Prince Sigvard Bernadotte, 109 Pcs

$4,150

Set for Six Pers Cutlery "Savoy" by Henning Seidelin for Frigast Made in Denmark

By Henning Seidelin, Frigast

Located in Krefeld, DE

Incredible nice set of cutlery by Danish Designer Henning Seidelin from the 1960s. The name of

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

Set for Six Pers Cutlery "Savoy" by Henning Seidelin for Frigast Made in Denmark

$1,062 / set

Art Deco Silver Plate Cutlery Flatware Set of 140 Piece Ravinet d Enfert

By Ravinet D Enfert

Located in Antwerp, BE

Artist or maker: Ravinet d'Enfert. Signature or marks: Ravinet d’Enfert , RD mark. Style: Art Deco. Date: 1930. Material: Silvered metal. Origin: France. Size: H 21 cm x L 45.5...

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Metal

Art Deco Silver Plate Cutlery Flatware Set of 140 Piece Ravinet d Enfert

$2,850

Art Deco Silver Plated 178 pc cutlery set by Frionnet in Original Case, 1930

By Francois Frionnet

Located in Antwerp, BE

Description:  A complete set of Art Deco silverware cutlery for 12 persons. 178 pieces. 13 x 12

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Tableware

Materials

Metal

Art Deco Silver Plated 178 pc cutlery set by Frionnet in Original Case, 1930

$5,225

Gio Ponti Cutlery Silver Service for Six in Nickel Silver by Krupp, Italy, 1950s

By Gio Ponti, Arthur Krupp

Located in Cascina, Pisa

Cutlery silver service for six in nickel silver or German silver, this set includes a total of 18

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Alpaca

Gio Ponti Cutlery Silver Service for Six in Nickel Silver by Krupp, Italy, 1950s

$1,520 / set

Comprehensive Set of Austrian Modernist Amboss 1050 Flatware Cutlery 36 Pieces Stainless Steel Rosewood Handles

By Amboss Austria

Located in Vienna, AT

Award-winning Austrian flatware from the 1950s, executed by Amboss Austria, who collaborated with a lot of Austrian designers and architects, like Carl Aubock. This was the most excl...

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Comprehensive Set of Austrian Modernist Amboss 1050 Flatware Cutlery 36 Pieces Stainless Steel Rosewood Handles

$3,200

Japanese Steak Knives Modern Set of 5 Stainless Steel and Wood, 1960s

By Dansk

Located in Chula Vista, CA

Cutlery Midcentury Japanese Steak Knives Modern set of 5 stainless steel and wood 1960s Measures

Category

Vintage 1960s Japanese Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Japanese Steak Knives Modern Set of 5 Stainless Steel and Wood, 1960s

$175 / set

Mid Century Cutlery Sculpture of a Bird by Gerard Bouvier, France 1995

By Gerard Bouvier

Located in Antwerp, BE

Mid century cutlery sculpture of a bird made of antique forks and spoons by the French artist

Category

1990s French Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Cutlery Sculpture of a Bird by Gerard Bouvier, France 1995

$1,959

1950s by Pierre Cardin for Lagostina Design Midcentury Cutlery Flatware

By Pierre Cardin

Located in Brescia, IT

Lagostina by Pierre Cardin 1957 24 pieces Very rare series Measures: H 19 cm.

Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Steel

1950s by Pierre Cardin for Lagostina Design Midcentury Cutlery Flatware

$1,484

Small Swedish Walnut Root Cutlery Chest of Drawers

Located in Haddonfield, NJ

Small Swedish mid-century cutlery chest with four drawers in walnut, walnut root and oak with

Category

Vintage 1950s Swedish Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Oak, Walnut

Small Swedish Walnut Root Cutlery Chest of Drawers

$1,950

18th Century, Georgian Cutlery Caddy

Located in High Point, NC

18th Century English oak cutlery caddy with an elegant form. The top edge has scalloped edging

Category

Antique Mid-18th Century English Georgian Knife Boxes

Materials

Oak

18th Century, Georgian Cutlery Caddy

$895

Mid-Century Modern Teak Wood Gourmet Carver Set by Shur Edge Cutlery

Located in San Diego, CA

Elegant Mid-Century Modern teak wood "Gourmet Carver" set by Shur Edge Cutlery, circa 1950s. The

Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Knife Boxes

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mid-Century Modern Teak Wood Gourmet Carver Set by Shur Edge Cutlery

$325

Vintage Canteen x 8 Silver Plated Cutlery Set Unused Mid 20th Century

Located in London, GB

silversmith George Butler, mid 20th century in date. The beautiful set consists of 60 pieces, in the elegant

Category

Mid-20th Century Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

Vintage Canteen x 8 Silver Plated Cutlery Set Unused Mid 20th Century

$1,028

19th Century American Handmade Cutlery Box

Located in Los Angeles, CA

This handmade pine cutlery box with heart shaped cut-out. This has early cut nails and in great

Category

Antique Mid-19th Century American Country Primitives

Materials

Wood

19th Century American Handmade Cutlery Box

$375

Amboss Austria Mid-Century Flatware Cutlery with Antler Handles for Six Persons

By Amboss Austria

Located in Vienna, AT

A set of modernist flatware for six persons. Consisting of 18 pieces, spoons, forks and knives. Executed in the 1960s by Amboss Austria. Made of stainless steel with beautiful deer a...

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Amboss Austria Mid-Century Flatware Cutlery with Antler Handles for Six Persons

$1,400

Vintage Canteen x 12 Silver Plated Cutlery Set Mid-20th Century

Located in London, GB

renowned Sheffield silversmith John Turton, dating from the mid 20th century. The beautiful set

Category

Vintage 1950s English Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

Vintage Canteen x 12 Silver Plated Cutlery Set Mid-20th Century

$1,336

Mid Century Large Boxed Set Nickel Bronze Faux Bamboo Cutlery Service for 12

Located in Port Jervis, NY

Fabulous set of faux bamboo cutlery service for twelve. Boxed set has a total of 144 pieces

Category

Mid-20th Century Thai Chinese Chippendale Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mid Century Large Boxed Set Nickel Bronze Faux Bamboo Cutlery Service for 12

$895

Mid-20th Century 12 Setting Walnut Canteen of Cutlery by Waring and Gillow

Located in Debenham, Suffolk

Fine quality set for 12 place settings, stamped a1 which is the superior quality. All with epns logo's and some baring the Waring and Gillow name on the knives. Almost complete, j...

Category

Mid-20th Century British Adam Style Tableware

Mid-20th Century 12 Setting Walnut Canteen of Cutlery by Waring and Gillow

$2,399

Mid Century Large Cutlery Sculpture of a Bull Gerard Bouvier One of a Kind

Located in Antwerp, BE

One of a kind Mid-Century Modern cutlery sculpture of a bull made of antique flatware, spoons

Category

Vintage 1980s French Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Large Cutlery Sculpture of a Bull Gerard Bouvier One of a Kind

$2,078

Danish Mid-Century Brass Teak Cutlery Set by Carl Cohr, Set of 26 Pieces

By Carl M. Cohr

Located in Esbjerg, DK

This dining/lunch set by Carl Cohr was manufactured and designed in Denmark in the 1960s. The set consists of three x eight and two pieces dinner/lunch, knives, forks, spoons and a s...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Brass

Danish Mid-Century Brass Teak Cutlery Set by Carl Cohr, Set of 26 Pieces

$451

Danish Mid-Century Brass and Teak Cutlery, Flatware Set, 36 Pieces by Carl Cohr

By Carl M. Cohr

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Dining set by Carl Cohr, Denmark. Manufactured and designed in the 1960s. The set consist of 3 x 12 pieces dinner/lunch, knives, forks and soup spoons. A rather practical feature of ...

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Brass

Danish Mid-Century Brass and Teak Cutlery, Flatware Set, 36 Pieces by Carl Cohr

$944

Mills Moore Sheffield Cutlery Set

By Mills Moore

Located in Hamilton, Ontario

Mid-Century Modern Mills Moore teak handled Sheffield cutlery set. This set was selected for "The

Category

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Stainless Steel

Mills Moore Sheffield Cutlery Set

$1,595

Amboss 2090 Cutlery by Helmut Alder

By Amboss Austria, Helmut Alder

Located in Vienna, AT

Rare complete cutlery designed by Helmut Alder for Amboss in 1963, stainless steel, each part

Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Amboss 2090 Cutlery by Helmut Alder

$2,190

Bjørn Wiinblad, Cutlery, Romanze for Rosenthal, Sterling Silver

Located in København, Copenhagen

Bjørn Wiinblad, cutlery, 'Romanze' for Rosenthal, sterling silver. Designed in 1962. Complete

Category

20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver

Bjørn Wiinblad, Cutlery, Romanze for Rosenthal, Sterling Silver

$1,400

Jens Quistgaard 1919-2008, Star, Silver Plated Cutlery, 11 Luncheons Forks

Located in København, Copenhagen

Jens Quistgaard 1919-2008. Star. Silver plated cutlery. 11 luncheons forks. Mid-20th century

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Sheffield and Silverplate

Jens Quistgaard 1919-2008, Star, Silver Plated Cutlery, 11 Luncheons Forks

$176

Salad Cutlery Servers, Amboss, Austria, 1950s

By Amboss Austria

Located in Hausmannstätten, AT

A pair of salad servers.

Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Serving Pieces

Materials

Stainless Steel

Salad Cutlery Servers, Amboss, Austria, 1950s

$700

24-piece bamboo flatware/cutlery, Italy 1960-1970

Located in Herentals, BE

A touch of nature on the table. This vintage 24-piece flatware/cutlery set for 6 people adds

Category

Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

24-piece bamboo flatware/cutlery, Italy 1960-1970

$391

Austrian Amboss-Manufacture Cutlery Set for 6 Persons

By Amboss Austria, Helmut Alder

Located in Vienna, AT

age, but that doesn't take away from it's original, rustic charm. The cutlery has been designed by

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Austrian Amboss-Manufacture Cutlery Set for 6 Persons

$861

Cutlery in Silver, 184 Pieces Model "Pyramid", Denmark, Georg Jensen

Located in København, Copenhagen

Denmark, Georg Jensen. Cutlery in silver, 184 pieces. Model "Pyramid" created in 1933

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Art Deco Sterling Silver

Cutlery in Silver, 184 Pieces Model "Pyramid", Denmark, Georg Jensen

$45,000

German Cutlery Set Othello Series by Wingen Solingen

Located in Milano, IT

Magnificent and eccentric set of cutlery made by German manufacturer Wingen Solingen from the 1970s

Category

Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Knife Boxes

Materials

Steel

German Cutlery Set Othello Series by Wingen Solingen

$1,128

Sigvard Bernadotte Scanline Midcentury Brass Cutlery Tableware, 1950s

By Sigvard Bernadotte

Located in Reggio Emilia, IT

Set of Scandinavian Scanline solid brass cutlery tableware for twelve, design Sigvard Bernadotte

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Brass

Sigvard Bernadotte Scanline Midcentury Brass Cutlery Tableware, 1950s

$3,088

Raymond Loewy Cutlery for Air France Concorde Service

By Raymond Loewy

Located in Doornspijk, NL

Raymond Loewy designed this sleek cutlery for the Compagnie d'Esthétique Industriale to be

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Raymond Loewy Cutlery for Air France Concorde Service

$950

Christofle 117-piece "Grand Bourg" silver plated cutlery set

By Christofle

Located in Autonomous City Buenos Aires, CABA

Christofle silver cutlery "Grand Bourg" 117 pieces Christofle cutlery set with Grand Bourg design

Category

20th Century Argentine Mid-Century Modern Platters and Serveware

Materials

Silver Plate

Christofle 117-piece "Grand Bourg" silver plated cutlery set

$2,500

Lucite Flatware Set/ Service for 8 Lifetime Cutlery

By Lifetime

Located in Philadelphia, PA

piece set plus extras! Lifetime cutlery, made in Taiwan. Set dates to the 1970's. Overall pretty clean

Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Lucite Flatware Set/ Service for 8 Lifetime Cutlery

$495

Bjørn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, Complete Siena Grill Cutlery / Service

Located in København, Copenhagen

Bjørn Wiinblad for Rosenthal. Complete Siena grill cutlery / service for six people. 1970's. The

Category

Vintage 1970s German Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Porcelain

Bjørn Wiinblad for Rosenthal, Complete Siena Grill Cutlery / Service

$800

Cutlery Model 1050 with Wooden Handle from Amboss Austria

By Amboss Austria

Located in Vienna, AT

This rustic cutlery consist of 27 pieces and was made in rosewood and stainless steel. It was the

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Cutlery Model 1050 with Wooden Handle from Amboss Austria

$1,662

Austrian Modernist Rosewood Flatware Cutlery by Esta Steyr, 1960s

Located in Vienna, AT

A beautiiful and straight modernist flatware, stainless steel with nice rosewood handles. Executed in the 1960s by Esta Steyr Austria. 24 pieces, for 6 persons. Excellent condition, ...

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Austrian Modernist Rosewood Flatware Cutlery by Esta Steyr, 1960s

$1,200

Rococo Odiot Meissonnier Sterling Silver Cutlery Flatware for 12, France

By Odiot

Located in Buenos Aires, Olivos

Fantastic set of cutlery of the best of the best in silver French cutlery. 115 pieces Odiot

Category

Mid-20th Century French Rococo Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Rococo Odiot Meissonnier Sterling Silver Cutlery Flatware for 12, France

$12,000

Regent Sheffield Cutlery Teak and Stainless Mode Danish Steak Knives and Serving

By Regent Sheffield

Located in Topeka, KS

gorgeous teak and stainless MCM – Mid-Century Modern design. Each set is in their original box and in

Category

Mid-20th Century English Mid-Century Modern Knife Boxes

Materials

Stainless Steel

Regent Sheffield Cutlery Teak and Stainless Mode Danish Steak Knives and Serving

$295

Cutlery for 8 Persons, 47 Pieces, Bamboo and Steel, Italy 1960

Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR

French riviera 8 people, 47 pieces cutlery set. In bamboo and steel, it was produced in Italy circa

Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Knife Boxes

Materials

Steel

Cutlery for 8 Persons, 47 Pieces, Bamboo and Steel, Italy 1960

$1,425

Vintage Italian Lucite and Inox Cutlery, 1970s, Set of 29

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Colorful flatware set from Abert in Italy. The Inox/stainless pieces have colorful clear Lucite handles. The lot consists of: 6 forks, 6 knives, 6 soupspoons, 6 Teaspoons, a two-piec...

Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Italian Lucite and Inox Cutlery, 1970s, Set of 29

$706

Cutlery Flatware for 12 People, 48 Pieces, Nutwood, Amboss Austria, 1960s

By Amboss Austria, Werkstätte Carl Auböck

Located in Hausmannstätten, AT

A set of flatware for 12 people designed by Carl Auboeck, manufactured from Amboss Austria, in Mid

Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Brass, Stainless Steel

Cutlery Flatware for 12 People, 48 Pieces, Nutwood, Amboss Austria, 1960s

$3,400

Rustic Vintage Indian Twig Flatware Bronze Cutlery Service Set of 48 Pieces

Located in Esbjerg, DK

48 pieces bronze cutlery set with twig handles: 12 dinner forks, 12 dinner knives, 12 dinner spoons

Category

Vintage 1970s Indian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Bronze

Rustic Vintage Indian Twig Flatware Bronze Cutlery Service Set of 48 Pieces

$944

Rostfrei Midcentury 12 People Bamboo and Steel Italian Dessert Cutlery Set 1960s

Located in Roma, IT

Amazing midcentury 12 people bamboo and steel dessert cutlery set. This set was designed and

Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Steel

Rostfrei Midcentury 12 People Bamboo and Steel Italian Dessert Cutlery Set 1960s

$741

Georg Jensen Sterling Silver Cypres by Tias Eckhoff Cutlery Set for 8 Persons

By Georg Jensen, Tias Eckhoff

Located in Silkeborg, Silkeborg

Cypres by Georg Jensen Silver Denmark designed by Tias Eckhoff in 1952. Set of cutlery for 8

Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Georg Jensen Sterling Silver Cypres by Tias Eckhoff Cutlery Set for 8 Persons

$1,900

Tias Eckhoff Rosewood Flatware Cutlery set for 12 persons, Lundtofte 1960s

By Tias Eckhoff

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Iconic Scandinavian flatware dinner set for 12 persons. 12 dinner knives, 12 dinner forks and 12 soup spoons. Designed by Norwegian industrial designer Tias Eckhoff circa 1960 and ma...

Category

Vintage 1960s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Tias Eckhoff Rosewood Flatware Cutlery set for 12 persons, Lundtofte 1960s

$1,775

Arne Jacobsen Stainless Cutlery Flatware Set for Georg Jensen, 12 Persons

By Arne Jacobsen

Located in Esbjerg, DK

Complete flatware service for 12 persons designed by Arne Jacobsen and manufactured by Georg Jensen in Denmark. It was designed all the way back in 1957 for SAS Royal Hotel in Copenh...

Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Arne Jacobsen Stainless Cutlery Flatware Set for Georg Jensen, 12 Persons

$3,557

Midcentury Brass and Teak Cutlery Set by Frigast 1960s, Set of 30

Located in Esbjerg, DK

A brass and teak cutlery - flatware set. Its called Thailand and was manufactured by Frigast in

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Brass

Midcentury Brass and Teak Cutlery Set by Frigast 1960s, Set of 30

$469

Amboss Austria 2070 Flatware Cutlery for Six Persons, by Helmut Alder, 1960s

By Amboss Austria

Located in Vienna, AT

Beautiful modernist flatware from Austria, model 2070, designed by Helmut Alder, executed by Amboss Austria in the 1960s. High-quality flatware, made of stainless steel. For six per...

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Amboss Austria 2070 Flatware Cutlery for Six Persons, by Helmut Alder, 1960s

$3,100

Amboss Austria 2070 Flatware Cutlery for 12 Persons by Helmut Alder, 1960s

By Amboss Austria

Located in Vienna, AT

Beautiful modernist flatware from Austria, model 2070, designed by Helmut Alder, executed by Amboss Austria in the 1960s. High-quality flatware, made of stainless steel. For 12 pers...

Category

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Amboss Austria 2070 Flatware Cutlery for 12 Persons by Helmut Alder, 1960s

$5,200

The bull, large cutlery sculpture by Gerard Bouvier signed and dated 1990

By Gerard Bouvier

Located in Antwerp, BE

Description: A large cutlery sculpture of a bull made of antique flatware, spoons, forks and knifes

Category

Late 20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Materials

Metal

The bull, large cutlery sculpture by Gerard Bouvier signed and dated 1990

$4,744

Heavy and Large Midcentury Giant Copper Cutlery Fork and Spoon Wall Decoration

Located in Haarlem, NL

Very lovely heavy larger than life vintage massive brass fork and spoon with copper finish. These will bring out the Sophia Loren in you! Great decoration piece for a restauran...

Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern More Furniture and Collectibles

Materials

Brass, Copper

Heavy and Large Midcentury Giant Copper Cutlery Fork and Spoon Wall Decoration

$1,750

1940s Modernist Alpaca 35 pieces Italian Cutlery Set in the manner of Gio Ponti

By Gio Ponti

Located in Aci Castello, IT

detracting from its overall beauty. Whether you're a collector of Modernist design, a fan of mid-century

Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Alpaca

1940s Modernist Alpaca 35 pieces Italian Cutlery Set in the manner of Gio Ponti

$593

Vintage Danish Eton Cutlery by Henning Nørgaard for Raadvad, 1960s, Set of 79

By Raadvad

Located in Asaa, DK

Vintage Danish Eton Cutlery by Henning Nørgaard for Raadvad, 1960s 79 part set of Danish modern

Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Danish Eton Cutlery by Henning Nørgaard for Raadvad, 1960s, Set of 79

$789

Vintage Gold Plated Cutlery 90 pcs Set by RSG Rostfrei Solingen Germany 1970

By Rostfrei Solinger

Located in Sofia, BG

Exceptional vintage cutlery set of 90 pcs. created by RSG Rostfrei Solingen, in stainless steel and

Category

Mid-20th Century German Tableware

Materials

Stainless Steel

Vintage Gold Plated Cutlery 90 pcs Set by RSG Rostfrei Solingen Germany 1970

$1,206

French Art Deco Silverware Cutlery Set for 12 Persons, 110 Pieces, circa 1930

By Francois Frionnet

Located in Antwerp, BE

Description:  A complete set of Art Deco silverware cutlery for 12 persons.  110 pieces.  9 x

Category

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Metal

French Art Deco Silverware Cutlery Set for 12 Persons, 110 Pieces, circa 1930

$2,197

Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass Under $1,000

Antique and Vintage Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Mid-Century Modern Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

20th Century Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Metal Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass

Serveware, Ceramics, Silver and Glass on Sale

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Mid Century Cutlery For Sale on 1stDibs

Choose from an assortment of styles, material and more in our collection of mid century cutlery on 1stDibs. A piece of mid century cutlery — often made from metal, stainless steel and wood — can elevate any home. There are many kinds of the item from our selection of mid century cutlery you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 18th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. When you’re browsing for the right choice in our collection of mid century cutlery, those designed in Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Art Deco styles are of considerable interest. You’ll likely find more than one object in our assortment of mid century cutlery that is appealing in its simplicity, but Amboss Austria, Berndorfer Metallwarenfabrik and Carl M. Cohr produced versions that are worth a look.

How Much is a Mid Century Cutlery?

Prices for a piece of mid century cutlery can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $75 and can go as high as $45,000, while the average can fetch as much as $1,487.

Finding the Right Serveware, Ceramics, Silver And Glass for You

Your dining room table is a place where stories are shared and personalities shine — why not treat yourself and your guests to the finest antique and vintage glass, silver, ceramics and serveware for your meals?

Just like the people who sit around your table, your serveware has its own stories and will help you create new memories with your friends and loved ones. From ceramic pottery to glass vases, set your table with serving pieces that add even more personality, color and texture to your dining experience.

Invite serveware from around the world to join your table settings. For special occasions, dress up your plates with a striking Imari charger from 19th-century Japan or incorporate Richard Ginori’s Italian porcelain plates into your dining experience. Celebrate the English ritual of afternoon tea with a Japanese tea set and an antique Victorian kettle. No matter how big or small your dining area is, there is room for the stories of many cultures and varied histories, and there are plenty of ways to add pizzazz to your meals.

Add different textures and colors to your table with dinner plates and pitchers of ceramic and silver or a porcelain lidded tureen, a serving dish with side handles that is often used for soups. Although porcelain and ceramic are both made in a kiln, porcelain is made with more refined clay and is more durable than ceramic because it is denser. The latter is ideal for statement pieces — your tall mid-century modern ceramic vase is a guaranteed conversation starter. And while your earthenware or stoneware is maybe better suited to everyday lunches as opposed to the fine bone china you’ve reserved for a holiday meal, handcrafted studio pottery coffee mugs can still be a rich expression of your personal style.

“My motto is ‘Have fun with it,’” says author and celebrated hostess Stephanie Booth Shafran. “It’s yin and yang, high and low, Crate Barrel with Christofle silver. I like to mix it up — sometimes in the dining room, sometimes on the kitchen banquette, sometimes in the loggia. It transports your guests and makes them feel more comfortable and relaxed.”

Introduce elegance at supper with silver, such as a platter from celebrated Massachusetts silversmith manufacturer Reed and Barton or a regal copper-finish flatware set designed by International Silver Company, another New England company that was incorporated in Meriden, Connecticut, in 1898. By then, Meriden had already earned the nickname “Silver City” for its position as a major hub of silver manufacturing.

At the bar, try a vintage wine cooler to keep bottles cool before serving or an Art Deco decanter and whiskey set for after-dinner drinks — there are many possibilities and no wrong answers for tableware, barware and serveware. Explore an expansive collection of antique and vintage glass, ceramics, silver and serveware today on 1stDibs.

Questions About Mid Century Cutlery

What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
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.
What is a mid-century chair?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021
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.
What is mid century furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What is mid-century jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What does mid century mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What is a mid-century sofa?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
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.
What is mid-century artwork?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What is mid century decor?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
How can you tell if furniture is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.
How can you tell if a chair is mid century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
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.
How do you identify mid century lamps?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
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.
Why is mid century modern popular?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What makes a dresser mid-century?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertJune 15, 2023
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.
Is rattan mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024
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.
What time is considered mid-century??
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
Is Mondrian mid century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
Is mid-century modern timeless?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
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.
What does mid century modern mean?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
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.
Is Eames mid-century modern?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
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.

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