Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is the difference between mid-century and mid-century modern?
1 Answer
The difference between mid-century and mid-century modern comes down to specificity. When it comes to furniture and architecture, for example, mid-century refers to works that emerged during the middle of the 20th century, usually between 1950 and 1970. The more specific descriptor, mid-century modern, is used to refer to a particular style of design that emphasizes simplicity, organic forms and clean lines. Mid-century modern furniture designers generally drew on the architectural work of Frank Lloyd Wright, Bauhaus design, Scandinavian modernism and more. Any piece of furniture produced during the 1950s and ’60s can be referred to as mid-century, but only those with specific characteristics are mid-century modern. That said, when enthusiasts of furniture and architecture use the shorter of the two phrases, they may indeed be referring to modernist works created during that period in history. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of mid-century modern furniture.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
Related Questions
- What years are mid century modern?1 Answer
- Is Eames mid-century modern?1 Answer
- What does mid century modern mean?1 Answer
- What is mid century modern furniture?2 Answers
- Is rattan mid-century modern?1 Answer
Shop for Mid-Century Modern Furniture on 1stDibs
Mid Century Modern Colorful Tapestry, circa 1980
Located in Barcelona, ES
Mid Century Modern Colorful Tapestry, circa 1980
By unknown Artist
In original condition, with minor wear consistent of age and use, pres...
Category
Vintage 1980s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Tapestries
Materials
Wool
Modernist, Vintage Stool/Table, England, 1970s
Located in London Road, Baldock, Hertfordshire
A modernist mid-century vintage stool. Sitting on three tapered legs and formed of elm.
Reputed to have been made in 1977 in Salisbury Cathedral workshops from "Waterloo" Elm trees...
Category
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Stools
Materials
Wood
Paul D. Wellington Signed Sailboat Modern Brutalist Brass Wall Sculpture 1970s
Located in Keego Harbor, MI
A modern brutalist brass metal wall sculpture depicting a regal sailboat by Paul D. Wellington. Signed by the artist. Circa 1970s. Classic mid century modern wall art...
Category
Vintage 1970s American Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures
Materials
Brass
Tashiko Tazaezu Signed Japanese Hawaiian Studio Pottery Glazed Chawan Tea Bowl
Located in Studio City, CA
A beautiful and quite engaging sumptuously glazed Chawan tea bowl by famed Japanese Hawaiian American pottery master Toshiko Takaezu. The fired bowl features a vast array of shifting...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Ceramics
Materials
Earthenware, Pottery
Crotch Mahogany Wood Inlayed Narrow Two Drawers Federal Style Stand MINT!
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Crotch Mahogany Wood Inlayed Narrow Two Drawers Federal Style Stand MINT!
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern End Tables
Materials
Brass
Preview Lounge Chairs with new Kelly Wearstler Fabric, Pair
Located in Raleigh, NC
Stunning vintage swivel lounge chairs by Preview in the style of Vladimir Kagan. These are newly upholstered in Kelly Wearstler "District" Linen by Lee Jofa. Extremely comfortable ...
Category
Vintage 1970s Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs
Materials
Upholstery