Mid-century modern refers to the post-war design movement of the 1940s through the 1960s. Rooted in early 20th-century modernist and Art Deco traditions, it embraced new technologies, innovative materials, and a pared-down aesthetic. Designs from this period were vibrant, colourful, and free from unnecessary ornament, favouring clarity of form and functional elegance.
Designers and Makers
Nicholas Wells Antiques has handled works by many of the era’s most celebrated designers:
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Gilbert Poillerat – A French master of wrought iron, renowned for intricate yet modern ironwork.
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René Drouet – French furniture designer known for refined pieces with a touch of whimsy.
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Maison Jansen – The famed Parisian design house, creating luxurious interiors for elite clients worldwide.
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Guy Lefevre – A French designer celebrated for sleek, modern furniture that epitomised the period.
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Gio Ponti – Iconic Italian architect and designer, whose furniture and buildings shaped international modernism.
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Charlotte Perriand & Pierre Jeanneret – Innovators who worked with Le Corbusier, pioneering functional yet stylish furniture.
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Guido Gambone – Italian ceramicist admired for bold, playful, and colourful ceramic works.
Legacy
The mid-century modern era transformed the decorative arts with its bold embrace of industrial materials like metal and plastic, combined with timeless craftsmanship. Blending functionality with style, these designs remain highly collectable today and continue to influence contemporary interiors and decorative arts.
