The Most Expensive Mid-Century Modern Designers
Mid-century modern design, flourishing from the 1940s through the 1960s, introduced a fusion of functionality, simplicity, and organic forms that revolutionized furniture and interior aesthetics. Today, the works of certain designers from this era are highly coveted, with original pieces fetching impressive sums at auctions and in private sales.
1. Charles and Ray Eames
The Eames duo is perhaps the most iconic in MCM history. Their designs, such as the Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman, combine comfort with sleek aesthetics. Original pieces, especially those produced by Herman Miller, are highly sought after and can command prices ranging from several thousand to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on condition and provenance.
2. Finn Juhl
A Danish designer known for his sculptural approach to furniture, Finn Juhl's pieces, like the Chieftain Chair, are rare and highly collectible. His works are often featured in high-end auctions, with prices reaching up to $140,000 for select items.
3. Paul Evans
Evans was renowned for his bold, brutalist designs, particularly his work with Directional Furniture. Pieces like the Cityscape Credenza and Sculpted Bronze Cabinet are among his most prized works, with some selling for over $50,000 at auction.
4. Gio Ponti
An Italian architect and designer, Gio Ponti's collaborations with manufacturers like Molteni & C produced furniture that is both elegant and timeless. Original pieces, especially those from the 1950s, can fetch prices upwards of $30,000, reflecting their rarity and craftsmanship.
5. Arne Jacobsen
Known for his minimalist designs, Jacobsen's Egg Chair and Swan Chair are emblematic of Danish modernism. Vintage models, particularly those from the 1950s, are highly prized and can command prices between $6,000 and $12,000, with limited editions reaching higher figures.
6. Eileen Gray
Though her career spanned both the early 20th century and the mid-century period, Eileen Gray's influence on modern design is undeniable. Her "Dragons" armchair, for instance, shattered records when it sold for €21.9 million in 2009, making it the most expensive piece of 20th-century decorative art ever sold at auction.
7. Valerian Rybar
Dubbed the "world's most expensive decorator" in 1972, Valerian Rybar's opulent interiors and bespoke furniture pieces were the epitome of luxury. His works, often tailored for elite clients, are rare and highly collectible, though specific auction records are limited.
The enduring appeal of mid-century modern design lies in its timeless aesthetics and innovative approach to form and function. The designers mentioned above not only shaped the visual language of their time but also left a legacy that continues to influence contemporary design. Their works remain highly valued, both for their artistic merit and the craftsmanship that defines the mid-century modern movement.