Skip to main content

Mid Century Modern Textiles

to
433
1,947
1,919
3,406
460
113
3,698
166
39
4
2
2
2
85
17
3,303
573
18
1,834
756
13
58
376
507
468
97
18
3,762
2,582
1,525
906
646
2,334
1,055
1,004
485
469
3,962
3,679
3,884
55
54
47
47
46
Sort By
Six Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Navy Cheerful Check Wool, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Wool, Beech

Vintage Mid-Century Scandinavian Modern Oak Executive Chair in Alcantara Fabric
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
Scandinavian design from the Mid-Century Modern era. The chair will find its place in the office space thanks
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Scandinavian Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Oak

Mid-Century Modern Blue Armchair by Prudnik Furniture Factory, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
A vintage armchair, manufactured in the 1960s in Poland by the Prudnik Furniture Factory. The armchair is after full upholstery and carpentry renovation. The upholstery structure res...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

Vintage Mid Century Modern Decorative Wall Hanging Tapestry geometric pattern
Located in Seattle, WA
This Piece features geometric kilim style pattering. The two shorter ends are slightly fraying, giving a tassel effect. Primary colored embroidery. Vintage Condition Consistent with ...
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern North and South American Rugs

Materials

Textile

Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamp Kalmar, Brass Height Adjustable Telescope , 1970s
By J.T. Kalmar
Located in Hausmannstätten, AT
A floor lamp model 'Teleskop' / 'Telescope' no. 2090 by J.T. Kalmar, Vienna, Austria from the 1950's. The base is made of brass and the Stand is made of white enameled metal. The red...
Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Metal

Six Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Light Creme White Jacquard, Poland 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Wool, Beech

Set of Four Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Orange Melange, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Wool, Beech

Mid-Century Modern Blue Armchair by Prudnik Furniture Factory, 1960s, Poland
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
A vintage armchair, manufactured in the 1960s in Poland by the Prudnik Furniture Factory. The armchair is after full upholstery and carpentry renovation. The upholstery structure res...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chair, Hand Tufting Blue Green Wool, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Wool, Beech

Eight Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Tufting Blue Green Wool, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Wool, Beech

Mid-Century Modern Black Boucle Tub / Swivel / Lounge Chair, Faux Fur
By Milo Baughman
Located in Manhasset, NY
Mid-Century Modern Black Boucle Tub / Swivel / Lounge Chair, Faux Fur 29H x 31.75W x 34D / SH 19
Category

Late 20th Century Lounge Chairs

Materials

Metal

Ten Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Lime Velvet Plushy Dedar, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Wool, Beech

Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chair, Lime Velvet Plushy FR Dedar, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Wool, Beech

Ten Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Light Creme White Boucle, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Wool, Beech

Vintage Mid-Century Danish Modern 3-Seater Z-Sofa by Poul Jensen for Selig
By Poul Jensen, Selig
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
We present the icon of Danish Mid-Century Modern design and a very rare model: the Z-sofa was
Category

Vintage 1950s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Textile, Teak

Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chair, Adrian Pearsall Style, American, Chrome, 1950s
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Manhasset, NY
Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chair, Adrian Pearsall Style, American, Chrome, 1950s In a word
Category

Late 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Mid-Century Modern Cocktail Chair Made with Oak, Leather and Velvet, Handmade
Located in Seroa, PT
The Cocktail collection is inspired by the homologous drink which consists of a mixture of different drinks. This collection is, in itself, a conglomerate of shapes and materials, an...
Category

2010s Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Velvet, Oak

Vintage Yeibichai-Inspired Pictorial Textile with Southwest Modern Style
By Navajo
Located in Dallas, TX
an inch. Date: 1940's. Mid-20th Century.
Category

Mid-20th Century American Spanish Colonial North and South American Rugs

Materials

Wool

Mid-century Modern Judy Bed Designers Guild Handmade in Portugal by Ottiu
Located in RIO TINTO, PT
Bed merges mid-century design with modern luxury, making it a statement piece in any interior. Indulge
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Beds and Bed Frames

Materials

Textile, Bouclé, Wood

Set of 4 Vintage Mid-Century German Modern Cantilever Dining Chairs, 1960s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
beige. The upholstery is soft, pleasant to the touch, and blends well with both modern and classic
Category

Vintage 1960s German Bauhaus Chairs

Materials

Chrome

Set of Four Mid-Century Modern Beige Armchairs, Edmund Homa, 1960s, Poland
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
Set of four armchairs GFM-142, designed by Edmund Homa. The armchairs were made in the 1960s in the Gosciecinska Furniture Factory. They are made from solid beechwood. The GFM-142 ar...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

1980s Zapotec Mexican Textile Wall Art Tapestry Mexico
Located in Chula Vista, CA
1980s Zapotec Mexican Wall Art Tapestry Mexico 64 x 42 Original vintage condition unrestored See all images provided.
Category

Late 20th Century Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Textile

Set of Six Mid-Century Modern Beige Armchairs, Edmund Homa, 1960s, Poland
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
Set of six armchairs GFM-142, designed by Edmund Homa. The armchairs were made in the 1960s in the Gosciecinska Furniture Factory. They are made from solid beechwood. The GFM-142 arm...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

Vintage Mid-Century Danish Modern Brown 3-Seater Sofa by Folke Ohlsson for F.H.
By Folke Ohlsson, Fritz Hansen
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
the harmonious lines, subtle form, and refined simplicity characteristic of Mid Century Modern style
Category

Vintage 1960s Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Textile, Wood

Swedish Mid-Century Modern Organic Floor Lamp in Burned Wood, Wabi Sabi, 1950s
By Hans-Agne Jakobsson
Located in Odense, DK
the 1950s. The overall impression of this mid century table lamp is really good. It will complement
Category

Mid-20th Century Swedish Brutalist Floor Lamps

Materials

Textile, Pine

Vintage Nude Woman Textile Artwork by Don Freedman
By Don Freedman
Located in Raleigh, NC
Vintage textile wall art depicting a woman sitting nude with back turned. Designed by mid-century
Category

Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Textile, Yarn

Set of Ten Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Light Creme Leather, Poland, 1960
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Leather, Textile, Wool, Beech

Pair Teal Milo Baughman Style Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs, Swivel, Square
By Milo Baughman
Located in Manhasset, NY
Pair Teal Milo Baughman style Mid-Century Modern lounge chairs, swivel, square Sky or Celeste
Category

Late 20th Century American Swivel Chairs

Materials

Textile

Set of Four Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Peach Orange Wool, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Wool, Beech

Set of Six Mid Century Modern Bumerang Chairs, Royal Blue Wool, Poland, 1960s
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
The “Bumerang Chair” is a characteristic piece of furniture from the Polish People’s Republic (PRL) era. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the backrest, resembling a boome...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Textile, Beech, Wool

1960s Scandinavian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lamp by ASTRA, Dual-Colored Shades
By ASTRA
Located in Skien, NO
lamp by ASTRA, Norway. This mid-century modern sconce features dual-colored (minor color differences
Category

Vintage 1960s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Brass, Copper

Mid-Century Modern Brass Floor Lamp, Produced by Rupert Nikoll, Austria, 1950s
By Rupert Nikoll
Located in Vienna, Austria
This midcentury, brass floor lamp from Rupert Nikoll was made in the 1950s. It is full of details, such as the cone shaped foot, the swivel joint at the top of the column for tiltin...
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid century floor lamp, Ivar Fransson, IWO, brass birch, Swedish Modern, 1940s
Located in Forserum, SE
A refined Swedish Modern floor lamp from the 1940s, produced by Ivar Fransson, Industri IWO
Category

Vintage 1940s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Vintage Framed Floral Cross-Stitch Textile Art - Hand-Embroidered Needlework
Located in Seattle, WA
. The textile is presented in a simple dark-stained wooden frame with glass front. The back retains its
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Decorative Art

Materials

Textile, Wood

Danish Mid Century Modern, Set of 6 Dining Chairs in Oak, Henning Kjærnulf, 1960
By Henning Kjærnulf
Located in Odense, DK
charm. This set will complement many interior styles. A Modern, Classic, Antique, Scandinavian or an
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Baroque Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Oak, Fabric, Textile

Large Vintage Tribal Folk Art Batik Fabric Painting Art with Mid Century Modern
Located in Seattle, WA
Vintage African Folk Art Batik Fabric Painting Art with Mid Century Modern Influence and wooden
Category

Vintage 1970s Folk Art Paintings

Materials

Textile

Mid-Century Modern Italian Coat Rack Ico Parisi atributed, in wood of Beech
By Ico Parisi
Located in Vigonza, Padua
Mid-Century Modern Italian coat rack Ico Parisi atributed, wood of beech, green fabric printed
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Coat Racks and Stands

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Mid-Century Modern Voilier Armchair Made with Oak and Suede by Stylish Club
Located in Seroa, PT
, recreating the sensation of navigating in a luxurious yacht. The Voilier armchair features a modern design
Category

2010s Portuguese Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Velvet, Wood

Pair of Mid-Century Modern Armchairs by Nino Zoncada for Frimar, Italy
By Nino Zoncada
Located in Brussels, BE
Pair of Mid-Century Modern Armchairs by Nino Zoncada for Frimar, Italy
Category

Vintage 1950s Italian Armchairs

Materials

Textile

Mid-Century Modern Ross Littell Blue Square Dance Carpet, 1960s
By Ross Littell
Located in Brussels, BE
Mid-Century Modern Ross Littell blue 'Square Dance' carpet, 1960s.
Category

Vintage 1970s American More Carpets

Materials

Textile

Set of Two Mid-Century Modern Blue Armchairs by Prudnik Factory, 1960s, Poland
Located in 05-080 Hornowek, PL
A vintage armchairs, manufactured in the 1960s in Poland by the Prudnik Furniture Factory. The armchairs are after full upholstery and carpentry renovation. The upholstery structure ...
Category

20th Century Polish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

Set Of Four Mid Century Modern Beech Chairs By Oswald Haerdtl For Thonet, 1960s
By Oswald Haerdtl, TON a.s.
Located in Zohor, SK
Beautiful set of four dining chairs produced by TON company, original label still attached. The chairs are designed by Oswald Haerdtl For Thonet and were later produced by TON. The d...
Category

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Textile, Beech

Vintage Hand-Tufted Textile Wall Hanging with Bird and Autumn Leaves Motif.
Located in Seattle, WA
Beautiful vintage textile wall hanging featuring a hand-tufted design of a bird perched on a branch
Category

Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Textile

Vintage Mid-Century Polish Modern Small Table Lamp with Black Lampshade, 1960s
Located in Warszawa, Mazowieckie
This small table lamp was made in Poland during the 1960s. The base is a three-legged tripod made of black-tinted metal. Turned, spherical feet are made of solid wood. The classic, p...
Category

Vintage 1960s Polish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid Century Modern Wall Light by Rupprecht Skrip for Skrip Leuchten, Teak 1960s
Located in Rosendahl, DE
This refined wall light from the 1950s was designed by Rupprecht Skrip for Skrip Leuchten. Crafted in Germany, it features elegant teak elements and straw lampshades, creating a warm...
Category

Mid-20th Century German Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Teak, Textile

Vintage Italian Textile Adjustable Dome Pendant, 1970s
By Ateljé Lyktan, Markslöjd, Josef Frank, Brevettato, Svenskt Tenn
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Italian modern vintage pendant with dome shaped light sand colored woven textile shade on slender
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Textile, Wood

John Piper Chiesa Della Salute Venice Screenprint Textile 1959 Sanderson
By John Piper
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
Sandersons, 1959 In the late 1950's to the early 60's there was interest in painterly textiles that
Category

Vintage 1950s English Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Textile

1920 s American Folk Art Textile, Southwestern-Style Southwest Modern Carpet
Located in Dallas, TX
. Pile Height: 0.08 of an inch. Date: 1920's. Early 20th Century.
Category

Early 20th Century American Mid-Century Modern North and South American ...

Materials

Wool

FJ 56 - 4 pers. sofa in textile by Finn Juhl
By Finn Juhl, Niels Vodder
Located in Copenhagen, DK
Model FJ 56 - Rare four-seater sofa in textile with burnished steel frame and rosewood legs
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Steel

Mid-century lounge armchair Yugoslavia 1970s
Located in Miklavž Pri Taboru, SI
Lovely vintage armchair from the 1970s. Made in Yugoslavia. Comfortable, stable. Perfectly complement the interior of your living room in a retro style. Condition: While the wooden...
Category

Mid-20th Century Slovenian Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Materials

Textile, Wood

Brass Crystal Glass Pink Mid-Century Modern Pair of Sconce Lobmeyr, Vienna 1950s
By J.L Lobmeyr
Located in Vienna, AT
A pair of brass crystal glass pink Mid-Century Modern sconce or wall light, which was designed and
Category

Vintage 1950s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Crystal, Brass

Mid-Century Modern Brass Floor Lamp Flamingo no. 2083 by J.T. Kalmar, 1960s
By J.T. Kalmar, Kalmar Lighting
Located in Hausmannstätten, AT
A beautiful brass floor lamp model 'Flamingo' no. 2083 by J.T. Kalmar, manufactured in midcentury, in 1950s or 1960s. The lights is documented in the Kalmar catalogues 1960. The bras...
Category

Vintage 1960s Austrian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass

Mid-Century Minimalist Tripod Floor Lamp, 1960s
Located in Hamburg, DE
otherwise. Additional information: Material: Metal, Textile Color: Black Period: 1960s Styles: Mid-Century
Category

20th Century Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Framed Color Textile Wall Tapestry After Pablo Picasso - "Los Pichones", 1980s
By Pablo Picasso
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Introduce a touch of artistic brilliance to your space with this framed color textile wall tapestry
Category

Vintage 1980s French Mid-Century Modern Tapestries

Materials

Textile

Zabihi Collection Textile Fabric Pillow
Located in New York, NY
Double sided pillow made with a plaid pattern Turkish textile.
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Mid-Century Modern Turkish Rugs

Materials

Cotton

Pair of Mid-Century Italian Bar Stools/Chairs
Located in Vilnius, LT
The set of 2 pcs. Italian bar stools. The base is made of metal with grey textile upholstery. Heavy
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chairs

Materials

Metal

Rare three-seater sofa in grey textile by Finn Juhl
By Bovirke, Finn Juhl
Located in Copenhagen, DK
BO 77 - 3-seater sofa in new grey textile (Ecriture from Kvadrat, colours 270/210) with oxidised
Category

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Materials

Steel

  • 1
  • ...
Get Updated with New Arrivals
Save "Mid Century Modern Textiles", and we’ll notify you when there are new listings in this category.

Mid Century Modern Textiles For Sale on 1stDibs

At 1stDibs, there are several options of mid century modern textiles available for sale. Each of these unique mid century modern textiles was constructed with extraordinary care, often using fabric, textile and wood. We have 1413 antique and vintage mid century modern textiles in-stock, while there are 116 modern editions to choose from as well. There are all kinds of mid century modern textiles available, from those produced as long ago as the 19th Century to those made as recently as the 21st Century. Mid century modern textiles are generally popular furniture pieces, but Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian Modern and Modern styles are often sought at 1stDibs. J.T. Kalmar, Milo Baughman and Adrian Pearsall each produced beautiful mid century modern textiles that are worth considering.

How Much are Mid Century Modern Textiles?

Prices for mid century modern textiles start at $42 and top out at $56,995 with the average selling for $2,200.

A Close Look at Mid-century Modern Furniture

Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. The style, which emerged primarily in the years following World War II, is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living.

ORIGINS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN

MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW

ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS

VINTAGE MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE ON 1STDIBS

The mid-century modern era saw leagues of postwar American architects and designers animated by new ideas and new technology. The lean, functionalist International-style architecture of Le Corbusier and Bauhaus eminences Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Walter Gropius had been promoted in the United States during the 1930s by Philip Johnson and others. New building techniques, such as “post-and-beam” construction, allowed the International-style schemes to be realized on a small scale in open-plan houses with long walls of glass.

Materials developed for wartime use became available for domestic goods and were incorporated into mid-century modern furniture designs. Charles and Ray Eames and Eero Saarinen, who had experimented extensively with molded plywood, eagerly embraced fiberglass for pieces such as the La Chaise and the Womb chair, respectively. 

Architect, writer and designer George Nelson created with his team shades for the Bubble lamp using a new translucent polymer skin and, as design director at Herman Miller, recruited the Eameses, Alexander Girard and others for projects at the legendary Michigan furniture manufacturer

Harry Bertoia and Isamu Noguchi devised chairs and tables built of wire mesh and wire struts. Materials were repurposed too: The Danish-born designer Jens Risom created a line of chairs using surplus parachute straps for webbed seats and backrests.

The Risom lounge chair was among the first pieces of furniture commissioned and produced by celebrated manufacturer Knoll, a chief influencer in the rise of modern design in the United States, thanks to the work of Florence Knoll, the pioneering architect and designer who made the firm a leader in its field. The seating that Knoll created for office spaces — as well as pieces designed by Florence initially for commercial clients — soon became desirable for the home.

As the demand for casual, uncluttered furnishings grew, more mid-century furniture designers caught the spirit.

Classically oriented creators such as Edward Wormley, house designer for Dunbar Inc., offered such pieces as the sinuous Listen to Me chaise; the British expatriate T.H. Robsjohn-Gibbings switched gears, creating items such as the tiered, biomorphic Mesa table. There were Young Turks such as Paul McCobb, who designed holistic groups of sleek, blond wood furniture, and Milo Baughman, who espoused a West Coast aesthetic in minimalist teak dining tables and lushly upholstered chairs and sofas with angular steel frames.

Generations turn over, and mid-century modern remains arguably the most popular style going. As the collection of vintage mid-century modern chairs, dressers, coffee tables and other furniture for the living room, dining room, bedroom and elsewhere on 1stDibs demonstrates, this period saw one of the most delightful and dramatic flowerings of creativity in design history.

Questions About Mid Century Modern Textiles
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 25, 2024
    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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

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

  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019

    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.

  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 22, 2024
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Mid-century home decor is characterized by clean lines, geometric shapes and materials like wood and tweed.

  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019

    Some of the most famous mid-century modern furniture designers were Alvar Aalto, Charles and Ray Eames, Paul Evans, Poul Kjærholm, Florence Knoll, George Nakashima, Giò Ponti, Hans Wegner, Charlotte Perriand, Sergio Rodrigues and Eero Saarinen.

  • 1stDibs ExpertMarch 3, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
    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.