Question 1

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 2

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

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

What year is mid-century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

There is not a single year that is mid-century modern. The style emerged during the 1940s and 1950s and remained dominant through the 1960s and into the early 1970s. Some notable designers who contributed to the development of the mid-century modern style include Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Milo Baughman, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia, Isamu Noguchi and George Nelson. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Why is mid-century modern furniture so popular?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern furniture is so popular largely because its characteristics align well with the trends and tastes that are dominant today. Many people love its simple look defined by clean lines, and the use of natural materials also adds to its popularity. In addition, designers created mid-century modern furniture to be as functional as it is visually appealing, making pieces executed in the style simple, convenient and comfortable to use. Find a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 13

Are Wassily chairs mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Wassily chairs are indeed considered mid-century modern. Although the chair was initially designed by Marcel Breuer in 1925, it was re-released in the 1960s. Shop a collection of mid-century modern goods from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is Art Deco mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

Is a tulip table mid century modern?

Accepted Answer

Yes, the tulip table is considered a mid-century modern design. This table shape has become an iconic statement of the era with a simple sculptural attitude and a practical nature. The first tulip table was created by Eero Saarinen, a noted Finnish designer who was a leader in mid-century modern home decor. Shop a collection of Saarinen furniture from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What defines mid-century modern furniture?

Accepted Answer

Mid-century modern furniture combines sleek lines with organic shapes.

Question 17

What color wood is mid-century modern?

Accepted Answer

There is no single color wood that is mid-century modern. Designers working in the style employed a variety of finishes, though purplish reds, mid-yellows, light browns and medium dark browns were among the most commonly used. Teak wood was an especially popular material, not only due to its warm medium hue but also due to its strength and the beauty of its natural grain. Shop a wide range of mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What color should I paint my mid century modern home?

Accepted Answer

There are many colors available for painting a mid-century modern home and it is a matter of preference. You can choose from a range of colors that are closely associated with mid-century modernism — popular pairings include orange and brown or chartreuse and gray, for example. Find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture, decorative pieces, serveware and lighting on 1stDibs today.

Question 19

What are the defining characteristics of mid-century modern design?

Accepted Answer

The defining characteristics of mid-century modern furniture design include simplicity, an emphasis on organic forms, clean lines and a mix of both natural and man-made materials. The mid-century modern style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is used to describe the work of furniture designers who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Both neutral tones and bold Pop art colors can typically be found in mid-century modern interiors, which usually include light-filled spaces. An integration of floor-to-ceiling windows and abundant access to the outdoors renders prominent a connection with nature, which owes in part to the ideas of celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright, an inspiration for mid-century furniture designers. Popular mid-century modern designers include Ray and Charles Eames, Florence Knoll, Harry Bertoia and others. Find vintage mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is an iconic chair from the mid-century modern era?

Accepted Answer

Some iconic chairs from the mid-century modern era include the Egg chair by Arne Jacobson, the La Chaise by Charles and Ray Eames and the Womb chair by Eero Saarinen. With their clean lines, organic shapes and simple details, these chairs reflect some of the key features of the style. Shop a variety of mid-century modern chairs on 1stDibs.

Mid Century Modern Jewelry

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver pendant by Owe Johansson, Hopeajaloste OY

Mid-20th Century European Modern Brooches

1950s Platinum Vari-Cut Diamond Flower Spray Brooch

Mid-20th Century French Modern Brooches

Vintage Hermes-Paris 18K Yellow Gold and South Sea Pearl Brooch

Mid-20th Century American Modern Dome Rings

Modernist Ring Bakelite and Sterling Silver

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver and Agate Bracelet, Erik Granit, Helsinki, 1961

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver “Sagitta” Ring by Bjorn Weckstrom, Lapponia, Finland

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver Malachite Bracelet, Gertrud Engel, A. Michelsen 1950

Mid-20th Century Canadian Modern Platters and Trays

Carl Poul Petersen Polished Modern Ashtray in Sterling Silver, circa 1940-1970

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver Necklace by SG Hellstrom, Gnesta, Sweden, 1965

Mid-20th Century Modern Brooches

Vintage Enamel on Metal Daisy Brooch - Large Size - Unsigned - Circa 1960 s

Mid-20th Century Modern Multi-Strand Necklaces

14K Gold Aquamarine Multi-Strand Pearl Necklace

Mid-20th Century Mexican Art Deco Collectible Jewelry

Circa 1930s-50s Mexican Art Deco-Art Modern Sterling Silver Onyx Necklace

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern, Pege, Alton Sterling Silver Bracelet with Purple Stone

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver and Rock Crystal Bracelet, Waldemar Jonsson, 1969

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver Necklace, Rock Crystal Pendant by Alstrom, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Sterling Silver Necklace with Rock Crystal, Issac Cohen

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Silver Scandinavian Modern Pendant by Kultateollisuus Ky Turku, Finland, 1972

Mid-20th Century Japanese Modern Brooches

Mikimoto Tokyo Wreath Spray, 14K Yellow Gold Set With 15 Round Akoya Pearls

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Swedish Bracelet by Åke Lindström, 1971 for Bengt Hallberg

Mid-20th Century American Modern Figurines and Sculptures

Artist Modern Sculptural SterlingSilverWire Script Acrobat or Letter H Pendant

Mid-20th Century Modern Pendant Necklaces

Scandinavian Jeweler, Modernist Necklace in 14 Carat Gold

Mid-20th Century Modern Brooches

Stickpin Silver and Enamel

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Brooches

18K Yellow Gold Brooch with Lapis Lazuli and Diamonds

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Solitaire Rings

Scandinavian Goldsmith, 14 Carat Modernist Gold Ring Adorned with Dark Amethyst

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver Bracelet with Tigers Eye Stone by Noblelle, Denmark

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver and Amber Necklace by Niels Erik From, Denmark

Mid-20th Century British Modern Clip-on Earrings

9 Carat Yellow, Rose and White Gold Trinity Screw-Back Vintage Hoop Earrings

Mid-20th Century Russian Modern Lever-Back Earrings

14ct Rose and White Gold 0.54 Carat Diamond Drop Earrings

Mid-20th Century Modern Brooches

Vintage Owl Diamond and Ruby Eyes Brooch 14K Yellow Gold

Mid-20th Century American Modern Lever-Back Earrings

18K Yellow Gold and Sterling Silver With Sapphires Earrings

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver bracelet "Pege" with Tigers Eye, Alton, Sweden 1966

Mid-20th Century American Modern Brooches

Margaret de Patta Silver and Lapis Brooch 1947-1950

Mid-20th Century French Modern Brooches

Line Vautrin Gilt Bronze Moon Star Cosmology 2-part Brooch

Mid-20th Century Modern Charm Bracelets

Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Multi Gemstone Sputnik Charm Pendant

Mid-20th Century Modern Pendant Necklaces

Gold Locket Necklace Box Link Chain Necklace Attrib. Tiffany Co.

Mid-20th Century Finnish Modern Brooches

Silver 813H Brooch Finland Paavo Tynell Oy Taito Ab

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Collectible Jewelry

Scandinavian Modern Silver Necklace by K.E. Palmberg for Alton, Falköping

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Brooches

1950s Ruby and Diamond Substantial Brooch

Mid-20th Century Modern Bangles

Vintage George Jensen Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet Set

20th Century Argentine Post-Modern Collectible Jewelry