Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 2

What is a mid-century chair?

Accepted Answer

A mid-century chair is a piece of seating furniture that was designed at any point during the middle of the 20th century. Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. The mid-century period provided an excellent opportunity to experiment with both functional and decorative forms. Mid-century modern chairs were made with a variety of natural and synthetic materials, combining leather, wood, and cane with chrome, steel, and plastic. Shop a range of vintage mid-century chairs on 1stDibs today.

Question 3

What is mid century furniture?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is mid-century jewelry?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 5

What does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 6

What is a mid-century sofa?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 7

What is mid-century artwork?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 8

What is mid century decor?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 9

How can you tell if furniture is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 10

How can you tell if a chair is mid century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 11

How do you identify mid century lamps?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 12

Why is mid century modern popular?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 13

What makes a dresser mid-century?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 14

Is rattan mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

What time is considered mid-century??

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

Is Mondrian mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 17

Is mid-century modern timeless?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 18

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

What years are mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

The 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.

Question 20

What years are considered mid-century?

Accepted Answer

The 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.

Mid Century Illustrations

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Animal Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketches Of Different Butterflies Insects, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Animal Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketches Of Different Colorful Birds, 1960 s

1940s American Realist Portrait Prints

Albert W HampsonOriginal Saturday Evening Poster newsstand 1940 vintage poster linen-backed, 1940

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Expressive Ink Illustration of a Man Standing, 1950 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration of a Seated Nude Woman Drawing, 1950 s

Mid-20th Century American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Charles Kinghan"Happy Family", Mid Century Sepia Figurative Interior Scene, Illustration Art, c.1940 s

Mid-20th Century Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Leafs On Purple Paper Wallpaper Design, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Abstract Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Three Abstracted Faces in Oil on Illustration Board, Mid 20th Century

1950s Romantic Portrait Paintings

Joe BowlerLove Story Couple in Romantic Bliss Illustration - Mid Century, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Ink Illustration of a Happy Walker with Backpack, 1950 s

1950s American Realist Figurative Paintings

Pruett Alexander CarterChampagne for the Honeymoon, 1954

1960s American Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Albert Al HirschfeldMission Impossible Original TV Guide Drawing Illustration Caricature Mid Century, 1966

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

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Of A Floral Stained Glass Window Sketch, 1960 s

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

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Of A Grey Abstract Hardware Utensils Sketch, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketch Of A Vibrant Purple Peony Flower, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Still-life Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketch Interior Of Flowers In A Vase, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Interior Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketche Of A Mirror On Black Paper, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Minimalist Illustration of a Two Women Walking a Dog, 1950 s

Vintage 1960s Dutch Drawings

Set of Four Mid-Century Business Illustrations – Charles Burki, 1956–1964

1950s American Realist Figurative Paintings

Al ParkerMary Vincent and the Convict, Good Housekeeping Illustration - Mid Century, circa 1960 s

1950s American Realist Animal Paintings

Antonio PetruccelliOriginal Painting Life Mag Published 1955 Birds Animals Illustration Mid Century, 1955

1930s American Modern Landscape Paintings

Antonio PetruccelliAmerican Scene Industrial Modern Lamp Magazine Illustration Mid-Century c. 1930s, c. 1930s

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Ink Illustration of a Woman Carrying a Jug and Bags, 1950 s

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Charlotte BeckerCalendar Illustration

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Ink Illustration of a Shaded Garden View Through a Porch, 1950 s

1930s American Modern Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Ernest Hamlin BakerMagazine Cover Illustration Mid 20th Century Modern Theatre Broadway Realism WPA, 1936

Mid-19th Century Modern Figurative Prints

Camille RouqueplanIllustration for Walter Scott s Kenilworth by Camille Rouqueplan-19th Century, Mid-19th Century

1930s American Impressionist Figurative Paintings

Charles KinghanPortrait of a Man in Armchair, Mid Century Short Story Illustration, 1937

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Henry HintermeisterHorseshoes, Calendar Illustration

Mid-20th Century Post-Impressionist Landscape Paintings

Josine VignonMid Century French Illustration Sketch Of A Mosaic Ship In The Sea Drawing, 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Henry HintermeisterHorseshoes, Calendar Illustration

1960s Feminist Figurative Paintings

Lorraine FoxYoung Girl Red Dress lost in Thought, Mid Century Woman s Magazine Illustration, 1960s -1970s circa

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Benjamin StahlBenjamin Stahl Illustration

Mid-20th Century Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

George HughesWoman s Day Illustration

Mid-20th Century Paintings

Arthur SarnoffFamily Shopping, ACE Hardware Illustration, circa 20th century

Mid-20th Century American Realist Portrait Paintings

Glamorous Young Woman Illustration, ca. 1950 s

Mid-18th Century More Prints

Framed 18th Century Hand Colored German Book Page W/ Illustration and Text, Mid 18th Century

Mid-20th Century Figurative Paintings

Henry Hintermeister"Grandma s Hooked" Calendar illustration

Mid-20th Century American Realist Figurative Paintings

Ariane BeigneuxOriginal Vintage Illustration Boy with Horse Oil Painting Americana

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Drawings

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketches Of Different Butterflies Insects, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketches Of Different Colorful Birds, 1960 s

Albert W Hampson
Original Saturday Evening Poster newsstand 1940 vintage poster linen-backed, 1940

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Expressive Ink Illustration of a Man Standing, 1950 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration of a Seated Nude Woman Drawing, 1950 s

Charles Kinghan
"Happy Family", Mid Century Sepia Figurative Interior Scene, Illustration Art, c.1940 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Leafs On Purple Paper Wallpaper Design, 1950s

Joe Bowler
Love Story Couple in Romantic Bliss Illustration - Mid Century, 1950s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Ink Illustration of a Happy Walker with Backpack, 1950 s

Pruett Alexander Carter
Champagne for the Honeymoon, 1954

Albert Al Hirschfeld
Mission Impossible Original TV Guide Drawing Illustration Caricature Mid Century, 1966

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Of A Floral Stained Glass Window Sketch, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Of A Grey Abstract Hardware Utensils Sketch, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketch Of A Vibrant Purple Peony Flower, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketch Interior Of Flowers In A Vase, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketche Of A Mirror On Black Paper, 1960 s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Minimalist Illustration of a Two Women Walking a Dog, 1950 s

Al Parker
Mary Vincent and the Convict, Good Housekeeping Illustration - Mid Century, circa 1960 s

Antonio Petruccelli
Original Painting Life Mag Published 1955 Birds Animals Illustration Mid Century, 1955

Antonio Petruccelli
American Scene Industrial Modern Lamp Magazine Illustration Mid-Century c. 1930s, c. 1930s

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Ink Illustration of a Woman Carrying a Jug and Bags, 1950 s

Charlotte Becker
Calendar Illustration

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Ink Illustration of a Shaded Garden View Through a Porch, 1950 s

Ernest Hamlin Baker
Magazine Cover Illustration Mid 20th Century Modern Theatre Broadway Realism WPA, 1936

Camille Rouqueplan
Illustration for Walter Scott s Kenilworth by Camille Rouqueplan-19th Century, Mid-19th Century

Charles Kinghan
Portrait of a Man in Armchair, Mid Century Short Story Illustration, 1937

Henry Hintermeister
Horseshoes, Calendar Illustration

Josine Vignon
Mid Century French Illustration Sketch Of A Mosaic Ship In The Sea Drawing, 1960 s

Henry Hintermeister
Horseshoes, Calendar Illustration

Lorraine Fox
Young Girl Red Dress lost in Thought, Mid Century Woman s Magazine Illustration, 1960s -1970s circa

Benjamin Stahl
Benjamin Stahl Illustration

George Hughes
Woman s Day Illustration

Arthur Sarnoff
Family Shopping, ACE Hardware Illustration, circa 20th century

Henry Hintermeister
"Grandma s Hooked" Calendar illustration

Ariane Beigneux
Original Vintage Illustration Boy with Horse Oil Painting Americana

William Ernest Smyth
Mid Century Horse in Winter Landscape, c.1940s

Anton Otto Fischer
Original Illustration for Moby Dick

Freddy Wittop
Freddy Wittop “Kelly” Costume Illustration / Drawing, 1965

Bradshaw Crandell
Sweet Caporal Cigarettes Majorette Illustration

Victor Coleman Anderson
Shoveling Snow, Original illustration of a winter scene, circa 20th century

Warner Baird
"Near Spring" Green Barn Landscape in Oil on Illustration Board, mid 20th Century

Henry Hintermeister
Boy and Older Man with Cow, Original Illustration, 20th Century

Henry Hintermeister
Boy and Older Man Playing Checkers, Original Illustration, 20th Century

Mario Zamparelli
Astronaut - Space Man Mid Century - Howard Hughes, 1967 Circa