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 does mid century mean?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 4

What is 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 5

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 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 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 10

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 11

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 12

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 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 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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

What does mid century modern mean?

Accepted Answer

Mid century modern refers to the middle of the 20th century — specifically 1930s through the mid-1960s. This period represents a design and architecture movement characterized by simple shapes, clean lines, and organic materials. Some of the most famous mid century modern designers include Ray Eames, Charlotte Perriand, Isamu Noguchi and Eero Saarinen.

Question 19

What is mid century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modernism first appeared in 1945 and merged a minimalist aesthetic with practicality. Mid-century modern furniture is distinguishable by its lack of decoration or extravagance and its use of clean lines, organic curves and variety of natural materials.

Question 20

Is Eames mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Mid Century Lighter

Mid-20th Century Post-Modern Tobacco Accessories

1970s Lucite and Chrome Table Lighter by Peter Alan

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Enameled Bronze Table Lighter and Box by Del Campo

Mid-20th Century Austrian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

A Rare Carl Aubock Horn Cube Table Lighter, Vienna, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

THORENS 1953 Masterpiece Pocket Petrol Lighter In Chromed Steel

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Unusual Modernist Multi-Color Acrylic Cigarette Lighter, Advertising Technicolor

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sculptures

Sterling Silver Grape Cluster with Concealed Lighter by Buccellati

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

1980s Lucite and Chrome Table Lighter by Felice Antonio Botta

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Gucci Italian Sterling Silver and 18 Karat Gold Cigarette or 420 Lighter

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

A vintage Italian ceramic lighter by Aldo Londi, Italy circa 1960

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

William Comyns Sons Ltd 1960 Vintage Sterling Silver Fox Lighter

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Pierre Cardin Black Plastic and Plexiglass Table Lighter, France, 1970s

Antique Mid-19th Century Indian Edwardian Tobacco Accessories

Antique Vintage Anglo Indian Sterling Silver Gentlemans Victorian Cigar Lighter

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

ALFRED DUNHILL Paris 1960 Short Automatique Rollalite Petrol Pocket Lighter

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Zippo Classic Cool Cigarette Lighter Iconic Midcentury Modern USA 1950s

Late 20th Century German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Hans Theo Baumann Porcelain Lighter and Cigarette Holder by Rosenthal

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Vintage Italian Glass and Brass Lighter by Tommaso Barbi 1980s

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Barware

Hermès “Cartouche De Chasse” Set of Lighter and Cigarette Box

Mid-20th Century British Mid-Century Modern More Desk Accessories

Dunhill Green Goddess Cunard Line RMS Caronia: Ship Aquarium Table Lighter

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Ashtrays

Raymor Italian Midcentury Pottery Ashtray Lighter by Alvino Bagni for Bitossi

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Table Lighter Beige Ceramic and Brass by Tommaso Barbi, Italy, 1960s

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Super Rare 1950s Original Dunhill Aquarium Table Lighter Handmade in England

20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern Barware

Abalone Brass Pearl Encrusted Coffee Table Lighter with Painted Floral Details

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

DOLCE-VITA 1950 Amusement French Bar-Table Petrol Lighter In Acrylic Metal

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Luxury 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Oversized Table Lighter Made in England Chrome

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Unused D.L.I Flamingo Battery Operated Bakelite Flintless Table Lighter 1950s

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Fully Working 1950 s Dunhill Aquarium Oversized Table Lighter Made in England

Mid-20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Barware

Vintage Chrome and Red Bakelite Table Lighter in the Form of an Ocean Liner

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Tiffany Co. 1960 Modernist Zippo Petrol Fluid Pocket Lighter 14Kt Yellow Gold

Vintage 1940s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

ALFRED DUNHILL 1949 Desk Aquarium Lift Arm Petrol Lighter Perspex Lucite Steel

Vintage 1950s British Mid-Century Modern Sculptures and Carvings

1950s Dunhill Aquarium Oversized Table Lighter Made in England Chrome Red Fish

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Rare Gold-Plated 1950s Dunhill Aquarium Oversized Table Lighter Made in England

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

HERMES PARIS 1970 Desk Cylinders Lighter Cigarettes Box In Gilt And Sterling

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

1950s Dunhill Aquarium Oversized Table Lighter Made in England Chrome Deep Sea

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Fontana Arte 1970 Ronson Veraflame Desk Lighter In Glass And Gilt Bronze

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Dunhill London 1954 F-86 Jet Aircraft Table Desk Lighter In Polished Chrome

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Dunhill 1954 London F-86 Jet Aircraft Table Desk Lighter In Brushed Aluminum

Vintage 1940s Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

Rare Hand Machined Willys Jeep Ges-Gesch Table Lighter, West Germany by by Baier

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Desk Sets

Rare Set of Lucite and Wicker Table Lighter and Ashtray by Felice Antonio Botta

Vintage 1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Tobacco Accessories

EVANS 1952 For Loyal Automatic Table Lighter In the Shape Of Large Leather Boot

Mid-20th Century German Black Forest Armchairs