Who doesn’t get a little thrill from finding that perfect piece of furniture that not only looks cool but might just be hiding a rich history?
Welcome to the world of mid-century modern furniture—a gold mine for those who know how to spot a gem. Whether you’ve picked up a sleek chair from a garage sale or inherited a quirky table from your grandparents, figuring out what it’s really worth can be part of the fun.
But let’s be honest, without a bit of know-how, you might just miss out on recognizing a valuable piece. So, let’s dive into the essentials of valuing mid-century modern furniture, and turn you into a savvy collector, or at least someone who knows a good thing when they see it.
Mid-Century Modern Furniture: What’s the Appeal?
Mid-century modern furniture hails from the design movement spanning 1945 to about 1975 and is all about clean lines, organic forms, and materials that were a nod to both function and modernism. Think of designers like Charles and Ray Eames, Florence Knoll, and Eero Saarinen—visionaries who changed our expectations of what furniture could be. Their designs weren’t just pieces to sit on or eat off; they were art. And now, decades later, they’re more popular than ever.
According to Lori Stefek, “mid-century modern furniture is one of our passions and specialties! We regularly auction off mid-century modern furniture and have hundreds of examples of items with sold pricing details on LiveAuctioneers.”
“EAMES” Sold Items
“KNOLL” Sold Items
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/search/?keyword=stefek%27s%20knoll&sort=-relevance&status=archive
“SAARINEN” Sold Items
https://www.liveauctioneers.com/search/?keyword=stefek%27s%20saarinen&page=1&pageSize=24&sort=-relevance&status=archive
Here are Our Tips on How to Value Mid-Century Modern Furniture:
- Know the Makers and Marks
The quickest shortcut to uncovering value in mid-century modern furniture is recognizing famous designers and manufacturers. Pieces stamped with names like Herman Miller or marked with Danish seals often signal high quality and desirability in the market. Brush up on these names; sometimes the difference between a high-ticket item and a run-of-the-mill piece is just a small mark!
- Assess the Condition
When it comes to vintage furniture, the condition is king. A piece in mint condition with original fabric or finish usually holds more value than one that’s been heavily restored. Check for signs of wear, repairs, or modifications, all of which can affect an item’s value. Remember, a little patina might reduce a piece’s showroom shine but can add heaps to its character and authenticity.
- Rarity and Desirability
Like a rare gem, a rare piece of furniture can command eye-watering prices. Limited production items, or pieces from a particularly notable design phase, can be worth more. But remember, rarity isn’t just about how few were made; it’s also about how many people want it. A chair might be rare because no one liked it enough to keep it—doesn’t mean it’s valuable.
- Stay Current with Market Trends
The market for mid-century modern furniture can ebb and flow based on trends, economic factors, and generational shifts in taste. What’s hot today might not be tomorrow, and vice versa. Keeping a finger on the pulse of auction results, collector forums, and design blogs can help you understand what’s in demand.
- Getting a Professional Appraisal
Sometimes, you need to call in the big guns. If you think you’ve got something special but can’t pinpoint its value, a professional appraisal can be a good investment. At Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, we not only help you identify and appraise mid-century modern furniture, but we can guide you on how best to sell or care for it.
Understanding the value of mid-century modern furniture does more than just help you price a piece; it helps you appreciate the story and craftsmanship behind it. And whether you decide to sell, insure, or just show off your collection, knowing its worth can make all the difference.
Ready to put your newfound knowledge to the test? Check out Stefek’s upcoming auctions and see if you can spot the next big find. Or, come talk to us—whether you’re styling your home or searching for a star piece for your collection, we’re here to help you make informed, confident choices. Visit us at Stefek’s Auctioneers and Appraisers, and let’s get started on your mid-century adventure.
