Skip to main content

Totem Mid Century

to
59
183
160
294
177
133
110
99
67
65
18
9
6
3
3
3
80
38
18
17
7
Sort By
Serge Mouille - Small Totem Floor Lamp in Black
By Serge Mouille
Located in Stratford, CT
In his Post Black Shapes period, Serge Mouille experimented with color and columns. With the Totem
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel

José De Creeft Female Totem Carved Wood Sculpture
By Jose Mariano de Creeft
Located in Forney, TX
José De Creeft (1884-1982) Female Totem wood carving sculpture Provenance / Acquisition: Property
Category

Mid-20th Century American Rustic Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Post Modern Chrome and Black TOTEM Floor Lamp
By Sonneman Lighting, Kovacs
Located in New York, NY
Unusual and impressive cylindrical floor lamp, having a tubular insert shade, vertical chrome supports, on a black metal base. The light features two interior sockets, which operate ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

Ceramic Totem Sculpture Designed by Alessandro Mendini, Italy, Limited Edition
By Alessandro Mendini
Located in Madrid, MD
Elegant totem sculpture designed by Alessandro Mendini (Italian, 1931–2019), crafted in glazed
Category

Mid-20th Century Post-Modern Sculptures

Materials

Porcelain

Giovanni Massagrande “Totem” Sculpture for Giovanni Massagrande Studio, 1977
Located in Lonigo, Veneto
Giovanni Massagrande “Totem” sculpture for Giovanni Massagrande Studio, Italy, 1977. The "Totem
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Wood

Abstract modern totem wall sculpture in teak Netherlands 1960
By Brancusi
Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant
Fantastic shaped abstract totem sculpture made by an unknown artist in the Netherlands in 1960
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

Materials

Teak

Vintage Totemic Figure, South American, Carved Crystal, Gilt Metal, Tribal Art
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
tribal ornament, dating to the mid 20th century, circa 1950. Fascinating tribal figure in the Inca or
Category

Mid-20th Century South American Mid-Century Modern Tribal Art

Materials

Metal

Brutalist Marsura "Iron Totem" Sculpture Wrought Iron Candlestick, Italy 1960s
By Salvino Marsura
Located in Roma, IT
industrial, modernist, or eclectic mid-century interiors. Dimension (cm): Diameter - 28 Height - 81
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Iron, Wrought Iron

Alain Douillard (1929-2017), Totem sculpture, unique piece, circa 1970.
By Alain Douillard
Located in Nice, Cote d Azur
Alain Douillard (1929-2017), Totem sculpture, unique piece, brazed gold metal with two patinas
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Sculptures and Carvings

Materials

Metal

Ceramic Totem by Sandra Brown North on Wood, 1950 s
Located in Phoenix, AZ
Sandra Brown North ceramic and wood totem circa mid 1950’s. This masterful work has earth toned
Category

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic

Contemporary Pair of Brass Murano Glass Totem Lamps, Italy
Located in SAINT-OUEN, FR
Pair of table or bedside brass totem lamps dark raspberry and gold mustard Murano glass. In an
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Materials

Brass

Large Contemporary Totem Murano Glass Floor Lamp by Studio AD, Italy
Located in SAINT-OUEN, FR
workshop Studio AD. In a Mid-Century Modern Space Age Hollywood Regency, Memphis mood, Carlo Nason, Mazzega
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Nickel

Large Contemporary Totem Murano Glass Floor Lamp by Studio AD, Italy
Located in SAINT-OUEN, FR
workshop Studio AD. In a Mid-Century Modern Space Age Hollywood Regency, Memphis mood, Carlo Nason, Mazzega
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Brass, Nickel

R van t Zelfde Abstract TOTEM Sculpture Holland 1970s
By Alexandre Noll
Located in Roosendaal, Noord Brabant
. Like TOTEM poles tell a story, this sculpture in particular is a representation of the transformation
Category

Vintage 1970s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Elm

Lull No28 Contemporary Wooden Totem – Handcrafted by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No28 Contemporary Wooden Totem – Handcrafted by Joel Escalona ——— Balance and tension are at
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Boleslaw Danikowski (1928-1979) Large ceramic and oak totem sculpture
By Guillerme et Chambron, Boleslaw Danikowski
Located in Mouscron, WHT
Boleslaw Danikowski (1928-1979) Large ceramic and oak totem sculpture that can be used as a planter
Category

Vintage 1950s French Mid-Century Modern Ceramics

Materials

Ceramic, Wood

Set of 8 Totem Armchair By Torstein Nielsen for Westnofa
By Torstein Nilsen
Located in Miami, FL
Rare set of 8 TOTEM armchair made by Torstein Nielsen . Black paint oak and suede .
Category

Vintage 1980s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Chairs

Materials

Suede, Wood

Joelle NEVEU : "Cubist Totem", Direct carving on Carrara marble C. 1970
By Joelle Neveu
Located in SAINT-OUEN-SUR-SEINE, FR
Joelle Neveu (1944-2007, France) : Monumental "Cubist Totem" Direct carving in Carrara marble
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Carrara Marble

Set of Four Totem Sculptures by Aldo Guarnieri, Italy 1960s
Located in Brescia, Brescia
Discover the enigmatic beauty of mid-century Italian art with this set of four totem sculptures by
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Clay, Wood

Paul Maxwell Rare Sand Cast Bronze Wood Brutalist Totem Sculpture 1967
By Paul Maxwell
Located in Dallas, TX
rhythm and anthropomorphic gesture, this one-of-a-kind totem channels mid-century modernism’s reverence
Category

Mid-20th Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Bronze

Stereophonic TOTEM rr130 Radio by Mario Bellini for Brionvega, 1970s
By Brionvega, Mario Bellini
Located in bruxelles, BE
White Brionvega stereo radio, Totem model. The radio and record player work perfectly and have been
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Musical Instruments

Materials

Wood

Abstract Drawing Watercolor Painting Totem Column Jewish American Modernist WPA
By Ben-Zion Weinman
Located in Surfside, FL
Miniature Abstract Totem. Signed with initials. Provenance: Virginia Field, Arts administrator; New
Category

Mid-20th Century Expressionist Abstract Drawings and Watercolors

Materials

Ink, Watercolor

Matius French Vintage Pop Art Mural Totem Wall Sconce Sculpture 1970s
Located in Saint-Amans-des-Cots, FR
Pop Art Totem Sculpture by Matius, France, 1970s — Fractal Resin, Signed. This striking Pop Art
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Resin

French Design Maria Pergay Totem Wall Lamp or Sconce, 1970s
By Maria Pergay
Located in Renens, CH
ability to transform industrial materials into elegant, almost futuristic designs. The Totem Lamp, here
Category

Vintage 1970s French Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Materials

Bronze, Steel

Albert Chubac, Sculpture, "TOTEM", Painted Iron, circa 1980, France
By Albert Chubac
Located in Nice, Cote d Azur
Albert Chubac, cinetic sculpture, "Cage", Painted iron, circa 1980, France. Measures: Height 52 cm, depth 10 cm, width 10 cm. Albert Chubac was born in Geneva in 1920. After stud...
Category

Vintage 1980s French Mid-Century Modern Mobiles and Kinetic Sculptures

Materials

Iron

Sculptural Accent Lull No39 – NONO’s Wooden Totem for Artistic Spaces
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Sculptural Accent Lull No39 – NONO’s Wooden Totem for Artistic Spaces ——— Balance and tension are
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No13 Handcrafted Wooden Totem for Luxury Decor – NONO Collection
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No13 Handcrafted Wooden Totem for Luxury Decor – NONO Collection ——— Balance and tension are
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No3 Minimalist Wooden Totem – Artistic Installation by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No3 Minimalist Wooden Totem – Artistic Installation by Joel Escalona ——— Balance and tension
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Dark Wood Totem Figurative Unseen Force No38 by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Dark Wood Totem Figurative Unseen Force No38 by Joel Escalona —— This monolithic sculpture
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Contemporary Wooden Totem Art Unseen Force No34 Produced by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Contemporary Wooden Totem Art Unseen Force No34 Produced by NONO —— This monolithic sculpture
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Designed by Joel Escalona Unseen Force No40 Abstract Wooden Totem
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Designed by Joel Escalona Unseen Force No40 Abstract Wooden Totem—— This monolithic sculpture
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Figurative Totem Solid Wood Unseen Force No33 Crafted by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Figurative Totem Solid Wood Unseen Force No33 Crafted by NONO —— This monolithic sculpture
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Serge Mouille - Small Totem Floor Lamp Wired for US Market!
By Serge Mouille
Located in Stratford, CT
In his post black shapes period, Serge Mouille experimented with color and columns. With the Totem
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Steel

Contemporary Italian Round Green Blue Murano Glass Double Discs Totem Floor Lamp
By Leo De Carlo, Cosulich Interiors Antiques, Multiforme
Located in New York, NY
Created by the Italian Designer Leo De Carlo. This sculpture floor lamp is entirely customizable to your personalization, in colors and playful glass elements, frosted on reverse, hi...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Contemporary Italian Round Green Blue Murano Glass Double Discs Totem Floor Lamp
By Multiforme, Leo De Carlo, Cosulich Interiors Antiques
Located in New York, NY
Created by the Italian Designer Leo De Carlo. This sculpture floor lamp is entirely customizable to your personalization, in colors and playful glass elements, frosted on reverse, hi...
Category

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal

Mid-Century Abstract Carved Pine Sculpture, 1970
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Unique, Mid-Century pine totem sculpture. A beautifully carved abstract home accessory adorned with
Category

Vintage 1960s Dutch Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Pine

Lounge Chair Mod. "Toy", Design Rossi Molinari for TOTEM, Italy, 1968
By Studio Rossi-Molinari
Located in Napoli, IT
Lounge chair mod. "Toy" designed by Rossi Molinari for TOTEM, Italy, 1968, structure of lime
Category

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Materials

Plexiglass

Standing Totem Wood Sculpture, Still Stand No50 by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Whitefriars by Geoffrey Baxter, Cinnamon Totem Pole vase, U.K., c.1967
By Geoffrey Baxter
Located in Pymble, NSW
A Geoffrey Baxter designed cinnamon totem pole vase, pattern number 9671. Released in 1967, it is
Category

Vintage 1960s English Mid-Century Modern Glass

Materials

Art Glass

1960s Studio Stoneware Totem Bottle Geometric Pattern Scandinavian Craft Rustic
Located in Hyattsville, MD
Appears to be a highly textured turned salt fired stoneware centerpiece vase/bottle, with nice stenciled or painted slip geometric triangle pattern completely around the body. No mak...
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Pottery

Materials

Stoneware

Modern Carved Tranquility Totem Still Stand No74, Joel Escalona Design
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Biomorphic Serenity: Carved Oak Totem Still Stand No70 by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Biomorphic Serenity: Abstract Oak Totem Still Stand No61 by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Modern Carved Tranquility Totem Still Stand No46, Joel Escalona Design
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Biomorphic Serenity: Carved Oak Totem Still Stand No42 by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Still Stand No36: Tall Serenity Totem, Walnut Sculpture by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Handcrafted Wooden Elegance Still Stand No31: Standing Totem by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Escalona’s Elegance Still Stand No29: Tall Wooden Totem by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Graceful Curves Still Stand No14: Wooden Standing Totem by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Standing Serene Totem Still Stand No22: Crafted by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Still Stand No25: Handcrafted Walnut Serenity Totem by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Graceful Wooden Standing Totem Still Stand No24, NONO’s Escalona Collection
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
“Still Stand” sculptures by Joel Escalona Joel Escalona's wooden standing sculptures are objects of raw beauty and serene grace. Each one is a testament to the power of the material...
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Alan Wallwork Vessel Vase Pottery Sculpture TOTEM White Brown Terracotta
Located in BUNGAY, SUFFOLK
sculptural landscape vessel has been handmade by coiling, slabbing and shaping the clay. The totemic form and
Category

Vintage 1960s British Mid-Century Modern Vases

Materials

Pottery

Luxury Decor Sculpture Lull No81 – NONO’s Handcrafted Wooden Totem for Interiors
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Luxury Decor Sculpture Lull No81 – NONO’s Handcrafted Wooden Totem for Interiors ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No84 Wooden Totem for Modern Spaces – Designed by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No84 Wooden Totem for Modern Spaces – Designed by Joel Escalona ——— Balance and tension are
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Contemporary Design Sculpture Lull No49 – NONO’s Wooden Totem for Artistic Space
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Contemporary Design Sculpture Lull No49 – NONO’s Wooden Totem for Artistic Spaces ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No34 Wooden Totem for Interior Design – Handcrafted by Joel Escalona
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No34 Wooden Totem for Interior Design – Handcrafted by Joel Escalona ——— Balance and tension
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

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

Totem Mid Century For Sale on 1stDibs

Find many varieties of an authentic totem mid century available at 1stDibs. A totem mid century — often made from metal, ceramic and wood — can elevate any home. There are 178 variations of the antique or vintage totem mid century you’re looking for, while we also have 26 modern editions of this piece to choose from as well. Whether you’re looking for an older or newer totem mid century, there are earlier versions available from the 19th Century and newer variations made as recently as the 21st Century. A totem mid century, designed in the Mid-Century Modern, Folk Art or Neoclassical style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. A well-made totem mid century has long been a part of the offerings for many furniture designers and manufacturers, but those produced by Bernard Rooke, Georges Pelletier and Serge Mouille are consistently popular.

How Much is a Totem Mid Century?

Prices for a totem mid century can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — at 1stDibs, they begin at $139 and can go as high as $170,000, while the average can fetch as much as $3,380.

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 Totem Mid Century
  • 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 ExpertOctober 19, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertOctober 26, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertMay 5, 2023
    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.
  • 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023
    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.
  • 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 ExpertJune 15, 2023
    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.
  • 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
    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.
  • 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 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 ExpertMay 3, 2024
    The years between 1950 and 1960 are typically considered mid-century. Some people also include the 1970s in the definition. Remember that the term mid-century furniture refers to pieces produced during the middle of the 20th century. It is different from mid-century modern, the name for a furniture style that emerged primarily in the years following World War II and is characterized by pieces that were conceived and made in an energetic, optimistic spirit by creators who believed that good design was an essential part of good living. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of mid-century furniture.