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Lull No9 Modern Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona – Statement Piece
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No9 Modern Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona – Statement Piece ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Large 1970s Italian 7 Light Enrico Tronconi for Tronconi Totem Floor Lamp
By Tronconi
Located in London, England
This imposing and sizable seven-light floor lamp, named the Totem, was designed by Enrico Tronconi
Category

Mid-20th Century Italian Space Age Floor Lamps

Materials

Metal, Chrome

4 Totem dining chairs by Torstein Nilsen for Westnofa, Italian design table
By Torstein Nilsen, Westnofa Furniture, Vintage Italian Glass
Located in Gaggenau, DE
Set of 4 Mid Century Totem dining chairs by Torstein Nilsen for Westnofa with Italian design dining
Category

Vintage 1980s Norwegian Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Sets

Materials

Brass, Chrome

Serge Mouille - Black Large Totem Floor Lamp Wired for the 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

Modernist Wooden Sculpture in Abstract Intricate TOTEM Shape on a Wooden Base
Located in AMSTERDAM, NL
An amorphous and abstract piece by an unknown Artist. A hand-carved totem-like form made of natural
Category

20th Century Dutch Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Wood

White Winged Crown, 4 Part Ceramic TOTEM, Hand Built Sculpture by H. Starcevic
By Helena Starcevic Ceramics
Located in New York, NY
A tall, hand built ceramic Modern TOTEM, created by artist Helena Starcevic, this is one in an
Category

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Ceramic, Stoneware

Carved Wooden Elegance Still Stand No72: Abstract 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

Still Stand No76: Biomorphic Carved Oak Totem by NONO, Escalona Crafted
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 No73: Biomorphic Oak Totem by NONO, Modern Escalona Artistry
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 No66: Modern Organic Totem by NONO, 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 Carved Serenity Totem Still Stand No67 by NONO, Escalona Crafted
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

Carved Wooden Harmony Still Stand No63: Abstract 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

Abstract Wooden Elegance Still Stand No65: Carved Totem by NONO, 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

Organic Wooden Tranquility Still Stand No57: Carved 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

Carved Walnut Elegance Still Stand No53: Organic 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

Still Stand No54: Biomorphic Abstract Oak Totem by NONO, Escalona Crafted
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 No58: Modern Biomorphic Wooden Totem by NONO, Escalona Designed
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 No48: Biomorphic Carved Oak Totem by NONO, Escalona Crafted
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

Carved Wooden Elegance Still Stand No44: Abstract 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

Still Stand No45: Biomorphic Walnut Totem by NONO, Modern Escalona Artistry
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 No38: Elegant Wooden Standing Totem, A NONO Escalona Masterpiece
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 No34: Tranquil Oak Totem Sculpture by NONO, Escalona Designed
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

Sculptural Wooden Totem Still Stand No21 by NONO, Exquisite 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

Still Stand No28: Artistic Tranquility in Oak 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

Still Stand No13: Tall Wooden Totem Sculpture by NONO, 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

Still Stand No16: Handcrafted Walnut Totem, A Serene Escalona Art Piece
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

Curved Elegance Still Stand No19: Standing Walnut 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

Lull No96 Handcrafted Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Perfect for Artistic Inter
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No96 Handcrafted Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Perfect for Artistic Interiors ——— Balance
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No92 Minimalist Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Ideal for Contemporary Home
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No92 Minimalist Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Ideal for Contemporary Homes ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Interior Design Wooden Totem Lull No71 – Crafted by NONO for Contemporary Spaces
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Interior Design Wooden Totem Lull No71 – Crafted by NONO for Contemporary Spaces ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No74 Modern Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Perfect for Luxury Interiors
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No74 Modern Wooden Totem by Joel Escalona – Perfect for Luxury Interiors ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Modern Wooden Totem Lull No69 by NONO – Ideal for Interior Design Projects
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Modern Wooden Totem Lull No69 by NONO – Ideal for Interior Design Projects ——— Balance and tension
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No53 Modern Wooden Totem Sculpture – Ideal for Artistic Spaces by NONO
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No53 Modern Wooden Totem Sculpture – Ideal for Artistic Spaces by NONO ——— Balance and tension
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No62 Contemporary Wooden Totem for Modern Interiors – Designed by Joel Esca
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No62 Contemporary Wooden Totem for Modern Interiors – Designed by Joel Escalona ——— Balance
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No44 Tall Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona for Minimalist Decor
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No44 Tall Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona for Minimalist Decor ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Interior Sculpture Lull No31 – Handcrafted Wooden Totem by NONO for Modern Homes
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Interior Sculpture Lull No31 – Handcrafted Wooden Totem by NONO for Modern Homes ——— Balance and
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Lull No18 Contemporary Wooden Totem – Perfect for Sculptural Interiors by Joel E
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No18 Contemporary Wooden Totem – Perfect for Sculptural Interiors by Joel Escalona
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

Midcentury Carved Inuit TOTEM in Birch with Circular Mother-of-Pearl Inlay
Located in New York, NY
This handcrafted birchwood totem offers a stylized depiction of an inuit man. The facial features
Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Native American Objects

Materials

Stone

Tinted Lucite and Wood Tótem Form Floor Lamp by Pearsall for Modeline c. 1970’s
By Modeline Lamp Co., Adrian Pearsall
Located in New York, NY
Exceptional mid century, post modern tótem form floor lamp, designed by Adrian Pearsall, for the
Category

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

Materials

Chrome

Organic Harmony: Modern Wood Totem Still Stand No77 by NONO, 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

Italian Black Steel Brass Sandstone TOTEM Floor Lamp by Takahama for Sirrah, 1980
By Kazuhide Takahama, Sirrah
Located in MIlano, IT
Italian Black steel, brass and sandstone Totem floor lamp by Takahama for Sirrah, 1980s Totem
Category

Vintage 1980s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Materials

Sandstone, Brass, Steel

Modern Abstract Wooden Totem Still Stand No69 by NONO, Joel Escalona Crafted
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 No60: Modern Carved Wood Totem by NONO, Joel Escalona Crafted
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

Abstract Oak Elegance Still Stand No59 by NONO, Carved Totem Escalona Art
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 No64: Biomorphic Carved Oak Totem by NONO, Modern Escalona Art
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 Grace: Carved Oak Totem Still Stand No51 by NONO, Escalona Art
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 Serenity Totem Still Stand No55 by NONO, 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

Organic Harmony: Modern Wood Totem Still Stand No49 by NONO, 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

Graceful Curved Wood Totem Still Stand No39 by NONO, Joel Escalona Crafted
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

Exquisite Wooden Standing Totem Still Stand No35 by NONO, Joel Escalona Art
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

Tall Wooden Serenity Totem Still Stand No27: Sculpted by NONO’s 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

Nuu-chah-nulth Northwest Coast Hand Carved Wood TOTEM Pole by Ray Williams
Located in San Diego, CA
. Painted in great old and original pigments of red, black, white and green this totem is bold and striking
Category

Mid-20th Century Canadian Native American Native American Objects

Materials

Wood, Paint

Still Stand No10: Sculptural Wood Elegance, Tall Totem by NONO by 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 No30: Sculptural Harmony, Tall Oak Totem by NONO, 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

Wood Standing Totem Still Stand No9 by NONO, A 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

Elegant Oak Standing Totem Still Stand No17 by NONO, Joel Escalona Crafted
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

Lull No100 Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona – A Decorative Object for Mod
By Joel Escalona
Located in Ciudad de México, CDMX
Lull No100 Wooden Totem Sculpture by Joel Escalona – A Decorative Object for Modern Homes
Category

2010s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Abstract Sculptures

Materials

Hardwood

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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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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.