Mid-Century Modern Furniture Makers: A Guide
Have you ever encountered a vintage piece of furniture and wondered about its origins and maker? Mid-century modern furniture often carries hidden clues that can help you identify the manufacturer and gain insight into its history. In this comprehensive guide, we'll take you on a journey through the fascinating world of identifying mid-century modern furniture makers by deciphering the numbers stamped on the back of your cherished pieces.
-
Prominent MCM furniture makers include iconic designers and manufacturers such as Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, Hans Wegner, Arne Jacobsen, George Nelson, and companies like Herman Miller, Knoll, and Heywood-Wakefield. Familiarizing yourself with their work can aid in identifying MCM pieces.
-
Determining the maker of an MCM furniture piece involves several steps. Look for manufacturer labels or marks on the piece, check for design signatures or characteristics associated with specific designers, and research the history of the piece to identify its origin.
-
MCM furniture often features labels or marks on the underside or inside of drawers. These labels typically include the manufacturer's name or logo, model numbers, and sometimes the designer's name. Some labels may also indicate the production date or location.
-
Not necessarily. While many MCM pieces have labels or marks, some may have lost them over time due to wear or refinishing. Authenticity can still be determined through design characteristics, materials used, and a piece's history.
-
Identifying MCM designs by specific designers involves studying their signature styles and design elements. Research their most famous creations and compare these with the piece in question. Familiarity with their work is key to accurate identification.
-
Yes, there are books and online resources dedicated to MCM furniture identification. Some recommended books include "Mid-Century Modern Furniture" by Michael Crow, "Mid-Century Modern: Furniture of the 1950s" by Cara Greenberg, and "Miller's Mid-Century Modern" by Judith Miller.
-
Online research can be a valuable tool for identifying MCM furniture makers and designs. Websites, forums, and databases dedicated to mid-century modern furniture provide a wealth of information and visual references to assist in identification.
-
Yes, many MCM furniture makers have distinct design characteristics. For example, Charles and Ray Eames are known for their innovative use of materials like molded plywood and fiberglass, while Hans Wegner is celebrated for his Danish modern wood furniture with organic forms.
-
Yes, there are online communities and forums where enthusiasts and experts in MCM furniture share their knowledge and assist in identification. Websites like Retro Renovation and design-focused subreddits are excellent places to seek guidance.
-
Yes, professional appraisers specializing in MCM furniture can help identify makers and provide accurate valuations. They have expertise in evaluating design attributes, condition, rarity, and market demand to determine a piece's value.
Unveiling the Mid-Century Modern Mystery
Mid-century modern (MCM) furniture is celebrated for its timeless design and craftsmanship. From the sleek lines of Eames chairs to the organic forms of Saarinen tables, these pieces have become iconic in the world of interior design. To truly appreciate your MCM furniture, it's essential to uncover the stories behind them, including the furniture makers responsible for their creation.
Identifying the furniture maker is like discovering the artist behind a masterpiece. It adds historical value to your piece and enhances your appreciation for the craftsmanship and design philosophy of the era. So, how do you begin the process of identifying furniture makers?
Examining the Stamps and Numbers
Many mid-century modern furniture manufacturers left their mark by stamping pieces with distinctive codes, numbers, or labels. These marks can be found on various furniture parts, including the back, underside, or hidden corners. Understanding these markings is the key to unraveling the mystery.
Manufacturer's Marks
Manufacturer's marks, also known as maker's marks or stamps, are crucial in antique and vintage furniture. These marks provide valuable insights into furniture pieces' origin, authenticity, and history. In the mid-century modern (MCM) era, from the 1950s to the 1980s, several American furniture makers left their distinctive marks on their creations. Let's explore the significance of these marks and provide a comprehensive list of American furniture maker's marks from that period.
Understanding Manufacturer's Marks:
Manufacturer's marks are typically stamped or engraved onto a hidden or less noticeable part of a furniture piece. They serve various purposes:
Identification: Marks help identify a piece's manufacturer, designer, or origin. This information is invaluable for collectors, historians, and buyers.
Authentication: For antique and vintage furniture, marks serve as proof of authenticity. They help verify the age and origin of a piece, protecting buyers from replicas and forgeries.
Historical Documentation: These marks offer a glimpse into the history of a manufacturer or designer, including their production periods, design aesthetics, and sometimes even the specific line or model.
Value Assessment: Knowing the maker can significantly impact the value of a piece. Furniture from renowned designers or manufacturers often commands higher prices. Serial Numbers
List of American Furniture Maker's Marks (1950-1980):
The photo above shows the American of Martinsville stamp often located inside a cabinet or drawer that marks its furniture.
Herman Miller: One of the most iconic American furniture manufacturers of the MCM era, Herman Miller often marked their pieces with a paper label or a foil label featuring the Herman Miller logo.
Knoll: Knoll pieces from this period may have a Knoll label with the company's name and logo.
Eames Office: Furniture designed by Charles and Ray Eames is highly collectible. Look for a label with "Eames Office" or "Herman Miller" for authenticity.
Heywood-Wakefield: Known for its blonde wood and iconic designs, Heywood-Wakefield often marked pieces with a branded stamp, including the company's name.
Lane Furniture: Lane cedar chests and mid-century pieces may bear a Lane label or stamp, often with the company's logo.
Broyhill: Look for a Broyhill stamp or label on pieces from this American furniture maker.
Drexel: Drexel Furniture often used a stamp or label with their name and logo.
Kent Coffey: Kent Coffey's MCM pieces may feature a stamp or label with the company's name and sometimes the designer's name.
Thomasville: Thomasville furniture pieces often have a label with the company's name and logo.
American of Martinsville: American of Martinsville often used a paper label on the back or underside of their furniture. The label typically features the company's name, "American of Martinsville," sometimes accompanied by a logo or emblem.
Dunbar Furniture: Dunbar pieces are associated with Edward Wormley and often feature a Dunbar label.
Lane Acclaim Series: Pieces from this iconic series by Lane Furniture may have a distinctive dovetail symbol on the drawer.
Ficks Reed: Known for its rattan and bamboo furniture, Ficks Reed pieces might bear a label with the company's name.
Milo Baughman for Thayer Coggin: Look for a Thayer Coggin label on furniture designed by Milo Baughman.
Jens Risom Design: Risom's designs may feature a paper label with his name.
Kroehler: Kroehler furniture often has a label with the company's name.
Mersman: Mersman furniture pieces often feature the company's name, which may be spelled out as "Mersman" or "Mersman Tables." This is usually the most prominent element of the mark.
Brown Saltman: Pieces from this manufacturer might have a label featuring the company's name.
John Widdicomb: Widdicomb pieces may bear a label or stamp with the company's name.
Hooker Furniture: Hooker Furniture, known for its quality craftsmanship, also utilizes labels for their pieces. Their labels typically include the company's name, "Hooker Furniture Corporation," along with additional information about the piece, such as the collection name or model number.
It's essential to note that the presence of a manufacturer's mark doesn't guarantee the authenticity or quality of a piece, as labels can be removed or replaced over the years. Additionally, some designers' work might not always have a distinct mark. Researching specific designers, manufacturers, and their marks is essential for accurate identification and valuation in the world of mid-century modern furniture collecting.
Serial Numbers
Serial numbers are akin to fingerprints for mid-century modern (MCM) furniture, serving as unique identifiers that can reveal valuable information about the piece's origins, manufacturer, and production details. These numbers, often discreetly engraved or stamped on the furniture, are essential for collectors, enthusiasts, and historians in understanding the history and authenticity of MCM furniture. In this article, we'll explore the significance of serial numbers in MCM furniture and provide examples from iconic pieces.
The Role of Serial Numbers in MCM Furniture:
Identification of Manufacturer: Serial numbers are invaluable for identifying the manufacturer of an MCM piece. Many renowned furniture makers, such as Herman Miller, Knoll, and Eames, used serial numbers to distinguish their creations from others. By decoding the serial number, collectors can pinpoint the manufacturer with precision.
Dating the Piece: Serial numbers often contain clues about the production date of the furniture. This information aids in dating the piece and understanding its place within the manufacturer's catalog. It's particularly helpful for collectors seeking specific eras or styles.
Authentication: Serial numbers play a crucial role in authenticating MCM furniture. They serve as proof of a piece's legitimacy and provenance. This is essential in a market where replicas and reproductions exist, ensuring collectors invest in genuine vintage pieces.
Examples of Iconic Pieces with Serial Numbers:
Charles and Ray Eames are renowned for their iconic lounge chair and ottoman. Authentic versions feature a paper label with a serial number underneath the seat cushion. This serial number, when decoded, reveals the production details and authenticity of the piece.
Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman: Charles and Ray Eames are renowned for their iconic lounge chair and ottoman. Authentic versions feature a paper label with a serial number underneath the seat cushion. When decoded, this serial number reveals the piece's production details and authenticity.
Noguchi Coffee Table: The Noguchi coffee table, designed by Isamu Noguchi, often bears a Herman Miller label with a serial number. This number helps determine the table's production date and origin, ensuring buyers acquire genuine Noguchi designs.
Saarinen Tulip Table: The Saarinen Tulip Table, a mid-century classic, often features a Knoll label with a serial number. This number is instrumental in verifying the table's authenticity and confirming its status as an original Saarinen design.
George Nelson Clocks: George Nelson's iconic clocks, produced by Vitra, frequently have serial numbers on their backs. These numbers aid in dating and confirming the authenticity of these timeless pieces.
Bertoia Diamond Chair: Harry Bertoia's Diamond Chair by Knoll often bears a label with a serial number underneath the seat cushion. Collectors can use this serial number to trace the chair's history and authenticity.
Decoding Serial Numbers:
Deciphering serial numbers can be a fascinating detective task for MCM enthusiasts. While the format and information provided may vary by manufacturer, here's a general guide on how to decode them:
Manufacturer Code: The first part of the serial number usually corresponds to the manufacturer. For example, 'HM' in a Herman Miller serial number.
Production Date: The serial number often contains digits or codes that indicate the production date. This can include the year, month, or production run.
Model or Catalog Number: Some serial numbers include references to the piece's specific model or catalog number.
Production Location: In some cases, the production location might be part of the serial number, especially for companies with multiple manufacturing facilities.
Serial numbers are indispensable tools for identifying, dating, and authenticating mid-century modern furniture. They offer a unique window into the history and provenance of iconic pieces, ensuring that collectors and enthusiasts can preserve and celebrate the legacy of MCM design.
Examples of well-known manufacturers and their corresponding codes during this era:
Herman Miller: HM
Knoll International: Knoll
Drexel Furniture Company: DFC
Lane Furniture Industries: Lane
Heywood-Wakefield: H-W
Broyhill Furniture Industries: Broyhill
Bassett Furniture Industries: Bassett
Thomasville Furniture Industries: Thomasville
Kroehler Furniture: Kroehler
American of Martinsville: AoM or AM
Widdicomb Furniture Company: Widdicomb
Stanley Furniture Company: Stanley
Harvey Probber: HP
John Stuart Inc.: JS
Kling Furniture Company: Kling
Cal Mode Furniture: Cal Mode
Severin Hansen: SH
Mersman: Mersman
Lane AltaVista: LAV
Milo Baughman: MB
George Nakashima: GN
Production locations for American mid-century modern (MCM) furniture can vary widely, and knowing the origin of a piece can sometimes provide insights into its authenticity and value.
Examples of production locations commonly found on American MCM furniture:
High Point, North Carolina: High Point has long been a hub for furniture manufacturing in the United States. Many American furniture companies, both traditional and mid-century modern, were based in or around this city.
Grand Rapids, Michigan: Another significant furniture manufacturing center, Grand Rapids, was home to numerous MCM furniture makers.
Los Angeles, California: The West Coast, particularly Los Angeles, was a hotspot for mid-century modern design and production. Many iconic designers and manufacturers were based in California.
North Carolina: Aside from High Point, various other towns and regions in North Carolina were known for furniture production.
Bassett, Virginia: Bassett was home to Bassett Furniture Industries, a prominent American furniture manufacturer with a presence in the mid-century modern market.
Martinsville, Virginia: American of Martinsville, a well-known MCM furniture manufacturer, was based in Martinsville.
New York: While not a central manufacturing hub, New York City was a center for mid-century modern design and had showrooms and studios for many designers.
Chicago, Illinois: Some mid-century modern designers and manufacturers were based in or around Chicago.
Grand Rapids, Michigan: Grand Rapids has a rich history of furniture production, with various MCM manufacturers operating in the area.
Sheboygan, Wisconsin: This city was known for mid-century modern furniture production, including pieces by companies like H.G. Knoll.
It's important to note that many American furniture manufacturers have multiple production locations, and the location mentioned on a piece of furniture may only sometimes correspond to the exact place of production. Additionally, some manufacturers may need to include production location information on their pieces.
Date Codes
Date codes are another essential element in identifying MCM furniture.
These codes often comprise a letter followed by numbers. The letter corresponds to a specific year, while the numbers indicate the month of production. By deciphering date codes, you can determine when your furniture was created. These codes, often discreetly marked or stamped on furniture components, help collectors and enthusiasts decode the history of iconic MCM pieces. In this article, we'll explore the significance of date codes in MCM furniture and provide examples from renowned designs.
The Significance of Date Codes:
Historical Context: Date codes place MCM furniture within its historical context. By examining the production date, collectors can understand the era in which a piece was created and its design influences.
Manufacturer's Timeline: Date codes are essential for tracking a manufacturer's timeline. They reveal when specific designs were introduced, modified, or discontinued, aiding collectors in creating accurate collections.
Authenticity: Date codes play a pivotal role in authenticating MCM furniture. They help distinguish between original vintage pieces and reproductions, ensuring collectors invest in genuine designs.
Production Variations: Date codes often signify production variations or improvements. For example, changes in materials, construction methods, or design details may be reflected in date codes.
Examples of Iconic Pieces with Date Codes:
Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman: Charles and Ray Eames' iconic lounge chair and ottoman, produced by Herman Miller, often feature a paper label with date codes. These codes provide information about when the specific piece was manufactured, down to the month and year.
George Nelson Ball Clock: George Nelson's Ball Clock, manufactured by Vitra, may bear a date code on its back. This code reveals the year the clock was produced, allowing collectors to pinpoint its vintage.
Saarinen Tulip Table: Knoll's Saarinen Tulip Table may have a date code stamped on the underside. This code helps collectors determine the table's production date and authenticity.
Bertoia Diamond Chair: Harry Bertoia's Diamond Chair, also produced by Knoll, often features a date code beneath the seat cushion. It reveals production details and aids in verifying the chair's authenticity.
Noguchi Akari Lamps: Isamu Noguchi's Akari lamps, produced by the Noguchi Foundation, may have date codes on the lampshade frames. These codes provide information about when the lamps were crafted.
Decoding Date Codes:
Deciphering date codes can be an exciting aspect of collecting MCM furniture. While formats and locations of date codes vary among manufacturers, here's a general guide on how to decode them:
Year and Month: Many date codes include a combination of numbers representing the year and month of production. For example, '6710' might indicate October 1967.
Manufacturer's Code: Some date codes begin with a manufacturer's code or abbreviation, followed by the year and month. For instance, 'HM-6710' could signify a Herman Miller piece made in October 1967.
Production Location: Sometimes, date codes may incorporate details about the production facility or location. This is more common in larger companies with multiple manufacturing sites.
While we can't provide an exhaustive list of all manufacturer's codes we can provide some examples of commonly encountered codes during this period.
Please keep in mind that the presence and format of these codes may vary, and many manufacturers use unique identifiers. Here are some manufacturer's codes you may come across:
Herman Miller: Known for iconic designs by Charles and Ray Eames and George Nelson. Date codes often consist of the manufacturer's abbreviation followed by a year and month (e.g., HM-6710 for October 1967).
Knoll International: Famous for mid-century designs by Eero Saarinen and Harry Bertoia. Look for date codes that include the manufacturer's abbreviation and the production date.
Drexel Furniture Company: A prominent mid-century manufacturer. Date codes may include the manufacturer's abbreviation and production details.
Lane Furniture Industries: Known for the Lane Acclaim series. Date codes on Lane furniture may contain production information.
Heywood-Wakefield: Renowned for its blonde mid-century furniture. Please look for date codes with the manufacturer's abbreviation and production details.
Broyhill Furniture Industries: A well-known manufacturer during the mid-century period. Date codes may include the manufacturer's abbreviation and production details.
Bassett Furniture Industries: Another significant mid-century manufacturer. Date codes can offer insights into production timelines.
Thomasville Furniture Industries: A manufacturer with a long history of producing mid-century modern furniture. Look for date codes with the manufacturer's abbreviation and production details.
Kroehler Furniture: Prominent during the mid-century era. Date codes on Kroehler pieces may include the manufacturer's abbreviation.
American of Martinsville: Known for various mid-century designs. Date codes can reveal production information.
Widdicomb Furniture Company: for its high-quality mid-century furniture. Please look for date codes that include the manufacturer's abbreviation.
Stanley Furniture Company: A manufacturer with a range of mid-century designs. Date codes may include the manufacturer's abbreviation and production details.
Just so you know, this list is not exhaustive, and the format of date codes can vary widely. Collectors and enthusiasts often rely on specialized resources, books, or online communities to decode specific manufacturer codes for American furniture marks.
Date codes offer a fascinating glimpse into the history of mid-century modern furniture. They allow collectors and enthusiasts to trace a piece's origin, production date, and even its design evolution. These hidden marks, often found on iconic MCM designs, play a pivotal role in preserving the legacy of this timeless era of furniture design.
American of Martinsville: A Case Study
Let's take the example of a classic manufacturer. American of Martinsville, known for its high-quality craftsmanship, often left manufacturer stamps, serial numbers, date codes, and production location codes on their pieces. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to identify one:
The photo above shows two American of Martinsville night tables from its Bali Hi collection. The numbers 5204 identify the year and the month of production: April 1952.
Manufacturer Stamp: Look for manufacturer stamps, which often include variations of "American of Martinsville" or "AOM" on the furniture piece. These stamps can be found on the inside of drawers, the back of cabinets, or on the underside of tables and chairs.
Serial Numbers: Examine the piece for serial numbers. These numbers can provide valuable information about the production date and sometimes the specific item. Serial numbers are often stamped or engraved into the wood or a metal plate attached to the furniture. Record the serial number as it can be crucial for further research.
Date Codes: American of Martinsville frequently used date codes to mark their pieces. These codes are typically four or five digits long and represent the month and year of production. For example, "1269" might signify December 1969. Look for date codes near the manufacturer's stamp or on the same metal or wooden plate where the serial number is located.
Production Location Codes: Some American of Martinsville pieces feature production location codes. These codes indicate where the furniture was manufactured. For instance, "LA" may signify Los Angeles, "NC" for North Carolina, or "VA" for Virginia. Check for these codes alongside the other markings.
After collecting all relevant information, consult online resources and reference books specific to American of Martinsville furniture. Websites, forums, and books dedicated to mid-century modern furniture can help you decode the markings and gain insights into your piece's history. If you're unsure about the authenticity or specific details of your American of Martinsville piece, consider consulting experts or appraisers in mid-century modern furniture. They can provide valuable guidance and appraisals.
Remember that identifying American of Martinsville furniture can be a rewarding process, and the markings on these pieces can unveil their unique history and provenance.
The Joy of Discovery
Identifying your mid-century modern furniture makers can be a thrilling journey of exploration and discovery. It connects you with the rich history of design and the visionaries who shaped the mid-20th century. Whether you own an Eames Lounge Chair, a Saarinen Tulip Table, or any other MCM masterpiece, decoding the numbers and marks can deepen your appreciation for these iconic pieces.
Delving into the world of identifying mid-century modern furniture makers is like solving a captivating mystery. By examining the stamps, numbers, and codes on your vintage pieces, you can unveil the hidden stories and legacies behind your cherished furniture. So, go ahead, explore your collection, and unlock the secrets of mid-century modern design.
About the Authors
Jamie and Lyle, MCM enthusiasts at Plaidsmith.com, offer hands-on experience and expert insights into mid-century modern design. They curate authentic pieces, share historical context, and guide clients to make informed choices. Their expertise spans iconic designers, restoration techniques, and trends. Trusted authorities in the field continually expand their knowledge to stay at the forefront of MCM. Beyond work, they explore auctions, learn restoration techniques, and enjoy vintage catalogs, embodying their passion for mid-century modern design.
