Decoding Design Trends by Decade
While the Mid Century Modern design movement spanned several decades, distinct design trends emerged in different periods, influenced by factors such as technological advancements, social changes, and regional preferences. Understanding these trends can help you identify the approximate age of a piece of furniture. Here is an overview of design trends by decade within the Mid Century Modern era:
- 1930s-1940s: The early years of the Mid Century Modern movement were heavily influenced by the Bauhaus and International Style movements in Europe. Furniture designs from this period often featured simple, geometric forms and an emphasis on functionality. The use of tubular steel was prevalent, as seen in the work of designers like Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe. As World War II progressed, wood and other natural materials became more prominent, with designers like Alvar Aalto pioneering the use of bent plywood in furniture design.
- 1950s: The 1950s marked the golden age of Mid Century Modern design, with designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Eero Saarinen, and George Nelson creating some of the most iconic pieces of the era. This decade was characterized by organic shapes, innovative use of materials, and a focus on comfort and ergonomics. Scandinavian design also gained popularity, with designers like Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and natural materials in their work.
- 1960s: The 1960s saw a shift towards more experimental designs and the introduction of bold colors and futuristic materials like fiberglass, acrylic, and plastic. Designers like Verner Panton and Eero Aarnio created pieces with a playful, almost whimsical quality, such as the Panton Chair and the Ball Chair. The influence of space exploration can be seen in designs from this period, with many pieces featuring organic, sculptural forms and space-age aesthetics.
- 1970s: Although the Mid Century Modern movement began to wane during the 1970s, some designers continued to create pieces that reflected the style’s core principles. Furniture from this period often featured earthy colors, chunkier forms, and an emphasis on comfort. Designers like Milo Baughman and Vladimir Kagan created pieces with a more luxurious and opulent feel, incorporating plush upholstery and materials like chrome and glass.
Identifying Age through Construction Techniques and Materials
Another way to determine the age of a Mid Century Modern piece is by examining its construction techniques and materials. By understanding how furniture was made during different periods, you can gain valuable insights into its age and authenticity.
- Joints and fasteners: One key area to examine is the joinery used in a piece of furniture. Early Mid Century Modern designs often utilized traditional joinery techniques, such as mortise and tenon, dovetail, or dowel joints. As the movement progressed, designers began to experiment with new fastening methods like screws and metal brackets. A piece featuring traditional joinery techniques is more likely to be from the earlier years of the movement, while those with modern fasteners may indicate a later production.
- Wood types and veneers: As discussed in the previous chapter, certain wood types were more popular during specific periods of the Mid Century Modern movement. For example, teak and rosewood were often used in Scandinavian designs from the 1950s and 1960s, while walnut was popular among American designers. Additionally, the use of veneers can provide clues about a piece’s age, as thinner veneers were typically used in earlier pieces, while thicker veneers became more common in later years.
- Upholstery and fabrics: Examining the upholstery and fabrics used in a piece of furniture can also help you determine its age. Early Mid Century Modern pieces often featured natural materials like wool and cotton, with simple, geometric patterns or solid colors. As the movement progressed, synthetic fabrics like vinyl, polyester, and nylon became more popular, and bold patterns and bright colors emerged. A piece featuring natural fabrics and muted colors may be from the earlier years of the movement, while those with synthetic materials and vibrant patterns could indicate a later production.
- Hardware and fixtures: The hardware and fixtures used in a piece of furniture can offer clues about its age as well. Early Mid Century Modern pieces often featured simple, streamlined hardware made from brass or chrome. As the movement evolved, designers began to experiment with more elaborate and decorative hardware, incorporating materials like plastic and acrylic. Examining the style and materials of the hardware can help you determine if a piece is from the early or later years of the Mid Century Modern era.
- Maker’s marks and labels: One of the most reliable ways to identify the age of a piece of furniture is by looking for maker’s marks or labels. Many Mid Century Modern designers and manufacturers included identifying marks on their pieces, either in the form of stamps, labels, or metal tags. These marks can provide valuable information about the piece’s age, origin, and authenticity. It’s essential, however, to research and verify the authenticity of these marks, as some reproductions may also include fake or misleading labels.
By examining the design trends, construction techniques, and materials used in Mid Century Modern furniture, you can develop a more nuanced understanding of the style’s evolution and accurately determine the age of individual pieces. This knowledge will not only help you appreciate the historical context of your furniture but also ensure that you are investing in authentic, high-quality items that reflect the true spirit of the Mid Century Modern movement.