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Vintage Gunzenhauser Sissach Cast Bronze Seal Figurine, Mid-Century Modern
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
expressive upward pose, characteristic of mid-century modern animal sculpture, with a smooth, dark patinated
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures
Materials
Bronze
Swiss Design Classic Hans Eichenberger Saffa Chairs, Set of Four, 1980s
By Hans Eichenberger, Dietiker
Located in Renens, CH
Dietiker Switzerland. This set dates from the 1980s.
The name Saffa orginates from the “Schweizerische
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Metal
Willy Guhl 31" Adjustable 2 Piece Concrete Bowl Planter, Switzerland, 1960
s
By Willy Guhl
Located in Culver City, CA
sophistication. Oh, and P.S., they’re basically the Marilyn Monroe of mid-century planters—often spotted gracing
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Planters and Jardinieres
Materials
Concrete
De Sede DS-80 Daybed, Perriand Style, Mid Century
By De Sede
Located in Miami, FL
De Sede DS-80 Daybed, no mattress included. Solid mahogany, some of the slats are warped, please see pictures. Daybed is not signed, cannot guarantee maker. Need a mattress? We can h...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Daybeds
Materials
Mahogany
Armchairs by Eero Saarinen for Knoll Swiss Production, 1970s – Set of 4
By Knoll, Eero Saarinen
Located in Renens, CH
, produced in Switzerland during the 1970s.
Each chair features a molded white fiberglass shell on a cast
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Armchairs
Materials
Aluminum
Midcentury Mode Round Planter Designed by Willy Guhl for Eternit in Switzerland
By Willy Guhl, Eternit
Located in Doornspijk, NL
Round planter designed by Willy Guhl for Eternit in Switzerland. Beautiful patina.
The upper part
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Planters and Jardinieres
Materials
Cement
Atomic Pendant Lamp by Trix
Robert Haussmann for Swiss Lamp International
By Trix and Robert Haussmann
Located in Centreville, VA
Designed by Trix
Robert Haussmann in the mid 1960s.
The Swiss design team of Robert
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Chrome
1856 France and Switzerland Map with Mountain Profiles
Located in Langweer, NL
example of mid-19th-century European cartography, combining scientific accuracy with elegant design.
The
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century German Maps
Materials
Paper
Vintage Swiss Gustav Sporri Studio Pottery Vase for Ziegler Schaffhausen
By Gustav Spörri
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
Swiss ceramic designer, active during the mid-20th century. Born in 1909, Spörri is recognized for his
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Vases
Materials
Ceramic, Pottery
De Sede Gris Grey Patchwork Leather Storage Pouf, Ottoman, DeSede Switzerland
By De Sede
Located in Biebergemund, Hessen
Unique and decorative handmade De Sede storage pouf. The pouf is in very good condition with lovely patina, high seating comfort.
Detailed condition: Very good, this vintage item ha...
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Footstools
Materials
Leather
De Sede DS-80 Taupe Patchwork Leather Pouf, Ottoman, DeSede Switzerland
By De Sede
Located in Biebergemund, Hessen
Unique and decorative handmade De Sede DS-80 pouf. The pouf is in very good condition with lovely patina, high seating comfort.
Free DHL shipping
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Footstools
Materials
Leather
Stackable Aluflex Chairs by Armin Wirth: A Rare Pair of Mid-Century Elegance
By Armin Wirth
Located in Barcelona, Barcelona
Stackable Aluflex Chairs by Armin Wirth: A Rare Pair of Mid-Century Elegance
Discover the perfect
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chairs
Materials
Plywood
Quadro Chairs by Bruno Rey
Charles Polin for Dietiker, Switzerland, 1980s
By Bruno Rey, Charles Polin, Dietiker
Located in Almelo, NL
Quadro chairs by Bruno Rey & Charles Polin For Dietiker, Switzerland 1989.
Designed in 1980s by
Category
Vintage 1980s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs
Materials
Metal
Mid-Century Type 25 Teak Table Lamp from Temde
Located in Hamburg, DE
Mid-Century teak table lamp from the Swiss manufacturer Temde.
Simple design language in high
Category
20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Wood
Ultra-rare vintage DS 125 armchair, designed by Gerd Lange for De Sede Swiss.
By Gerd Lange
Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen
zipper seam.
Designer : Gerd Lange
Producer : De Sede
Manufactured : Swiss
Designed in : 1970s
De Sede
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Leather
Pair of Temde Wall Lamps in Wood, Switzerland 1960s
By Temde Leuchten
Located in Berlin, DE
Temde Pair of Wall Lamps in Wood with Glass Bulbs.
1x E14 each.
Please note: Lamp should be fitted professionally in accordance to local requirements.
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Wood, Glass
Gustav Spörri Ceramic Vase. No: 65476 69, Ziegler Keramik, Switzerland 1969
By Gustav Spörri
Located in Bern, CH
, Switzerland. Depicts rural village / farm scene.
Designer: Gustav Spörri, Switzerland
Producer: Ziegler
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Vases
Materials
Ceramic
$213 Sale Price
25% Off
Art Deco Design Organic Moulded Glass
Chrome Table Lamp By Mégal AG Swiss
By Megal AG
Located in Reading, Berkshire
Switzerland
This elegant table lamp with branded name inside glass shade.
Base diameter 13cm
Glazed shade
Category
20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Stainless Steel, Chrome
$2,048 Sale Price
25% Off
Wood and Glass Wall Lamp by Temde Switzerland, 1960s
By Temde Leuchten
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
The lamp is executed with two E14 Edison screw fit bulb. It is wired and in working condition. It runs both on 110 / 230 volt.
Light bulbs are not included.
It is possible to insta...
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Glass, Wood
De Sede Midcentury Swiss Metal
Black Leather Upholstered Ottoman
By De Sede
Located in Queens, NY
Mid-Century Swiss (1970s) metal ottoman with an incurved, contoured seat upholstered in black
Category
20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Ottomans and Poufs
Materials
Metal
Jaeger LeCoultre, Atmos Clock, Model "Feuille d
Or - Caravelle", Swiss 1965
By Jaeger-LeCoultre
Located in Greven, DE
Jaeger LeCoultre - Atmos Feuille d'or Motif Caravelle
Switzerland
Brass gold plated
Year of
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Clocks and Desk Clocks
Materials
Brass
X-Large Mid-Century Modern Wallnut
Brass Crucifix, 1950s Germany
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
X-Large Mid-Century Modern walnut & brass crucifix, 1950s Germany.
Super elegant, very puristic
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Religious Items
Materials
Brass
Hans TurnwaId ce Bucket Apple, Turtle Pattern, 1970 Freddo Therm, Switzerland
By Hans Turnwald, Freddo Therm
Located in Paris, France
A lovely ice bucket in the shape of an apple, by the Switzerland designer Hans TurnwaId edited by
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Barware
Materials
Tortoise Shell, Acrylic
Pair of Mid Century solid brass Owl Bookends
Located in Bern, CH
Pair of Mid Century solid brass Owl Bookends. These lovely items lend themselves to almost any
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Hollywood Regency Bookends
Materials
Brass
$199 / item
MidCentury Swiss Pentarkus Table Lamp by Rosemarie and Rico Baltensweiler, 1950s
Located in Hamburg, DE
, Plastic
Color: Silver
Period: 1950s
Styles: Mid-Century Modern, Minimalist
Country of Origin: Switzerland
Category
20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Metal
Paul Tuttle model "Nonna" rocking chair for Stassle Switzerland, circa 1972
By Strässle International, Paul Tuttle
Located in Skokie, IL
Paul Tuttle model "Nonna" rocking chair for Stassle Switzerland, designed in 1972. This is as
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chairs
Materials
Steel
Pair of De Sede DS-50 Black Leather Recliner Chairs, 1970s Switzerland
By De Sede
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Pair of executive lounge chairs by De Sede made in the 1970s, Switzerland. Chairs feature a
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Leather
De Sede DS-88 Landscape Sectional Sofa in Cognac Tan Leather, Switzerland 1970
s
By De Sede
Located in Pijnacker, Zuid-Holland
Manufacturer: De Sede
Country: Switzerland
Model: DS88 landscape sectional sofa
Design period: circa 1970
Date
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas
Materials
Leather
Hand Carved Wood Swiss Black Forest Eagle Sculpture Label P. Maeder, Lucerne
Located in Lisse, NL
angle. A superb example of mid-20th-century Swiss wood carving, it is a piece that will continue to
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Black Forest Animal Sculptures
Materials
Glass, Wood
2 Small Spindle or Diabolo Planter Designed by Swiss Architect Willy Guhl
By Willy Guhl
Located in Mouscron, WHT
2 Small spindle or diabolo planter designed by Swiss architect Willy Guhl
The price is for one
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Planters and Jardinieres
Materials
Concrete
Mid Century Leather Executive Office Chair DS 35 De Sede
By De Sede
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid century leather executive office chair DS 35 - De Sede. Very heavy and very comfortable leather
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Office Chairs and Desk Chairs
Materials
Aluminum
$2,600 Sale Price
20% Off
Perfect patinated DS-15 modular sofa by Team De Sede for De Sede Swiss.
By De Sede
Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen
: Team De Sede
Producer : De Sede
Manufactured : Swiss
Produced in : 1978
De Sede remains one of the
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sectional Sofas
Materials
Leather
Henri Ganz for Stendig Swiss mirror chrome base round glass top coffee table
By Stendig Co.
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Henri Ganz for Stendig Swiss mirror chrome curved triangle chrome steel base with thick round plate
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Coffee and Cocktail Tables
Materials
Chrome
Antique Map of Switzerland by Lapie, 1842
Located in Langweer, NL
Antique map titled 'Carte de la Suisse ou Helvetie'. Map of Switzerland. This map originates from
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century French Maps
Materials
Paper
1950s Duck-Shaped 800 Silver Salt
Spice Cellar with Tongue by Jetzler Swiss
Located in Bad Säckingen, DE
functional, ideal for serving salt, sugar, or spices with a touch of mid-century charm. Its clean, stylized
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver
Materials
Crystal, Silver
Space Age Table Lamp by Temde Leuchten, Switzerland, 1970s
By Temde Leuchten
Located in Nürnberg, Bayern
The lamp requires two E27 / E26 Edison screw bulb, is wired, functional and runs on both 110 / 230 volts.
Our lamps are tested, cleaned and are suitable for use in the USA. For use ...
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps
Materials
Chrome
Nonna Rocking Chair by Paul Tuttle for Strässle, Switzerland, 1970s
By Paul Tuttle
Located in Almelo, NL
Paul Tuttle for Swiss company Strässle 1972.
Bent tubular steel chromed, in combination with beech
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Rocking Chairs
Materials
Metal
Horgen Glarus Modell 903 by Kurt Culetto Cognac Swiss Folding Spanish Chair
By Horgen-Glarus
Located in Munich, Bavaria
This folding chair was designed by Kurt Culetto. It was produced by Switzerland Manufacturer Horgen
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Brass
Antique Print of of Vaud, from Lausanne, Switzerland
Located in Langweer, NL
, Switzerland. Overlooking the city and Lake Geneva. Originates from W. Beattie's 'Switzerland', published 1836.
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century Prints
Materials
Paper
$142 Sale Price
20% Off
Stunning vintage Daybed DS-80 in rare black original leather by De Sede Swiss
By De Sede
Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen
De Sede DS-80 Black Leather Daybed – Rare Vintage Swiss Modern Classic (1970s)
A strikingly rare
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Daybeds
Materials
Leather
Pair of Max Bill Torchiere Floor Lamps for B.A.G. Turgi, Switzerland, 1950s
By Max Bill
Located in Oceanside, US
enamel.
B.A.G. Turgi was one of Switzerland’s most important mid-century lighting manufacturers, known
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Bauhaus Floor Lamps
Materials
Enamel, Steel
Set of 3 Hans Eichenberger, Girsberger Leather Lounge Chairs, Switzerland 1966
By Hans Eichenberger, Girsberger
Located in Praha, CZ
- Iconic chair
- Representative
- Rare in set.
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Chrome
Small Gilt Brass Glass and Wood Chandelier by Temde, Switzerland, 1950s
By Temde Leuchten
Located in Wiesbaden, Hessen
A small Mid-Century Modern milk glass, gilt brass and wood chandelier by Temde, Switzerland, circa
Category
Vintage 1950s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Brass
Mid Century Vintage De Sede DS 66 brown leather loveseat sofa
By De Sede
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Beautiful Mid century Vintage De Sede DS 66 sofa loveseat Brown leather Switzerland circa 1970
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Loveseats
Materials
Leather, Wood
$2,880 Sale Price
20% Off
Atomic Chandelier by Trix and Robert Haussmann for Swiss Lamps International
By Robert Haussmann
Located in Barcelona, ES
Atomic ceiling lamp designed in 1965 by Trix and Robert Haussmann for Swiss Lamps International
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Metal, Aluminum
Rare Swiss Design Jingzi Silicone Floor Lamp, Herzog
De Meuron, 2000s
By Herzog
de Meuron
Located in Renens, CH
architects from Switzerland. They are known for their innovative approach and bold designs in creating iconic
Category
Early 2000s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps
Materials
Plastic, Silicone
Mustard patchwork leather round storage ottoman by De Sede, Switzerland, 1970s.
By De Sede
Located in Almelo, NL
Mustard patchwork leather round storage ottoman by De Sede, Switzerland, 1970s.
Mustard-colored
Category
Late 20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Ottomans and Poufs
Materials
Leather
De Sede
Cosmos
DS28 modular sofa in grey / brown Leather, Switzerland, 1970
s
By De Sede, Ubald Klug
Located in Uithoorn, NL
De Sede 'Cosmos' DS28 modular sofa in grey / brown Leather, Switzerland, 1970's
The Cosmos has
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Leather
Midcentury Temde Raffia Teak and Milk Glass Pendant, Switzerland 1960s
By Temde Leuchten
Located in NUEMBRECHT, NRW
This unusual Mid-Century Modern pendant was designed and manufactured by TEMDE Leuchten in
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Raffia, Milk Glass, Teak
$1,752 Sale Price
20% Off
Large De Sede coffee Table in Travertine and Natural Leather, Switzerland, 1970s
By De Sede
Located in Odense, DK
thick patinated aniline leather. Very rare model made in the 1970s at De Sede in Switzerland. Stunning
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Side Tables
Materials
Travertine
Exceptional Hard Plastic Ceiling Lamp by Rudolf Dörfler, 1960s, Switzerland
Located in Hagenbach, DE
Exceptional Hard plastic ceiling lamp by Rudolf Dörfler, 1960s, Switzerland
Sculptural minimal
Category
Vintage 1960s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Plexiglass
Stunning
very rare green leather DS-31 Sofa by Team De Sede for De Sede Swiss
By De Sede
Located in Buggenhout, Oost-Vlaanderen
De Sede DS 31 Three Seat Sofa De Sede Design Team De Sede Switzerland 1970s
Extremely Rare Green
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Sofas
Materials
Leather
Easy Lounge Chair By Hans Bellmann From His Sitwell Collection Switzerland -1955
By Hans Bellmann
Located in Southampton, NJ
A rare sculptural masterpiece designed by Hans Bellmann for Strässle Söhne & Co. Switzerland circa
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Enamel, Steel
Atomic Brass Table Lamp, Switzerland, 1960s
Located in Aachen, NRW
Atomic brass table lamp with nine-glass globes. The globes are hand blown and fitted with a screwing device.
High quality and in very good condition. Cleaned, well-wired and ready...
Category
Vintage 1960s German Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants
Materials
Opaline Glass
Carl Moser Studios Standing Floor Candle Holders in Brass and Wood, Switzerland
By Carl Moser 1
Located in Miami, FL
Carl Moser Standing Floor Candle Holders in Brass and Wood, Switzerland
Offered for sale are a
Category
Mid-20th Century Swiss Mid-Century Modern More Candle Holders
Materials
Brass, Metal
$12,800 Sale Price / set
20% Off
Antique Print of Bad Pfäfers, St. Gallen, Switzerland
Located in Langweer, NL
, it is the oldest Baroque bath-house in Switzerland, houses a restaurant and a museum.
Engraved by
Category
Antique Mid-19th Century Prints
Materials
Paper
$142 Sale Price
20% Off
Verner Panton Rugs: Mira-Carré – 1970s Switzerland, Set of Six
By Verner Panton, Mira-X
Located in Renens, CH
(Mira-X), Switzerland during this same period.
These exceptionally rare rugs are still in very good
Category
Vintage 1970s Swiss Mid-Century Modern Western European Rugs
Materials
Synthetic
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Swiss Mid Century For Sale on 1stDibs
Find many varieties of an authentic Swiss mid century available at 1stDibs. Frequently made of animal skin, leather and metal, every Swiss mid century was constructed with great care. Find 2541 options for an antique or vintage Swiss mid century now, or shop our selection of 61 modern versions for a more contemporary example of this long-cherished piece. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer Swiss mid century, there are earlier versions available from the 18th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A Swiss mid century, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Art Deco or Modern style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made Swiss mid century has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by De Sede, Willy Guhl and Eternit are consistently popular.
How Much is a Swiss Mid Century?
Prices for a Swiss mid century start at $24 and top out at $153,529 with the average selling for $3,496.
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
- Emerged during the mid-20th century
- Informed by European modernism, Bauhaus, International style, Scandinavian modernism and Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture
- A heyday of innovation in postwar America
- Experimentation with new ideas, new materials and new forms flourished in Scandinavia, Italy, the former Czechoslovakia and elsewhere in Europe
CHARACTERISTICS OF MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGN
- Simplicity, organic forms, clean lines
- A blend of neutral and bold Pop art colors
- Use of natural and man-made materials — alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak; steel, fiberglass and molded plywood
- Light-filled spaces with colorful upholstery
- Glass walls and an emphasis on the outdoors
- Promotion of functionality
MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNERS TO KNOW
- Charles and Ray Eames
- Eero Saarinen
- Milo Baughman
- Florence Knoll
- Harry Bertoia
- Isamu Noguchi
- George Nelson
- Danish modernists Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen, whose emphasis on natural materials and craftsmanship influenced American designers and vice versa
ICONIC MID-CENTURY MODERN FURNITURE DESIGNS
- Eames lounge chair
- Nelson daybed
- Florence Knoll sofa
- Egg chair
- Womb chair
- Noguchi coffee table
- Barcelona chair
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 Swiss Mid Century
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024The 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 sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021A 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 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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.
- What is a mid-century chair?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 19, 2021A 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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Mid-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 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021The 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.
- Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2024Yes, 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, 2024The 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 ExpertMay 3, 2024The 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.
- Are the 1970s mid-century?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertFebruary 17, 2023No, the 1970s are generally not considered to fall within the era identified as mid-century. With respect to mid-century modern design, while there is some debate between collectors and design experts about the specific time period that saw the emergence of the style, most furniture enthusiasts agree that by the late 1960s, interest in MCM had largely declined. Writer Cara Greenberg, who coined the term “mid-century modernism,” suggests that “the period from the end of World War II to 1960 – from V-J Day to JFK – was the heyday of innovative furniture design in America.” Mid-century modern furniture is characterized by clean lines and inviting, organic shapes. Furniture makers of the era believed that good design was an essential part of good living. Find a variety of vintage mid-century modern furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
- 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, 2021Mid 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 22, 2021Mid 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 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023To 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.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021Most 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 ExpertJune 15, 2023A 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 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 13, 2024Yes, 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.
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