Folke Palsson FDB Mobler Chair - $50 (Baltimore County)

1942-1950 Danish Mobler Chair - $50 (Balt. County)

This listing is for a single chair, which appears to be a chair that was designed by Danish designer Folke Palsson for FDB Mobler. The Palsson chair is a classic Danish design, and one that clearly shows how American styles (notably Shaker) influenced some Danish designs at the time (for more info this click here). Between 1942 and 1950, at the time this design was developed, FDB Mobler's design studio was run by Borge Mogensen, one of the most influential Danish designers of the 20th century.

There is little information in this listing about the chair, but it is evident that it has some significant wear to the black lacquer finish.  I'm not very familiar with this chair, but also wonder why some of these chairs seem to have a metal adornment on the back-rail, whereas others don't. I have seen both versions in several places online.

Chairs like this one, in good condition, regularly sell for $75-150. Considering the condition of this chair, I don't think $50 would be a great deal, but it is a reasonable starting place for negotiations if you like this style and are willing to do a little restorative work on the finish. It is also worth asking the seller if the piece has any label still attached. Although to my knowledge this chair was not widely copied, the label will resolve any doubt and help your re-sale value. 

If you just like the chair and would rather pay a little more for one (or four) in better condition, check out this listing for 4 of these for $600.

Overman Lounge Chair & Ottoman - $100

Gold Overman Lounge Chair and Ottoman - $100 (20886, MD)

This listing is for an olive green (gold?) lounge chair and ottoman made by Overman. The Overman Furniture company originated in Sweden in the late 1950s / early 1960s and later expanded production into Germany and ultimately Tennessee, USA. The company was founded by Swedish designer Carl Eric Klote. The signature characteristic of Overman furniture pieces is that they are constructed on molded expanded polystyrene (EPS) frames--the same thing used to make packing peanuts and rigid panel insulation--which makes them both lightweight and, supposedly, very durable. Klote went on to form Klote International, which uses this same material as the basis for its furniture line today, and comes with a 25 year warranty on all EPS frames.

Although not exactly a high-end design piece, this Overman chair has great 1960s modern and somewhat space age style at a great value. I also think the color is a nice mix of being colorful/bright, while not overly so. And doesn't everyone need a good lounge chair to read, or watch TV from?

The chair and ottoman appear to be in good overall condition (tight upholstery, seemingly firm padding, no obvious stains or tears), and at $100, the price is very reasonable. Good buy!

Jens Risom Danish modern dining table - $350

Jens Risom vintage modern dining table - $350 (NW DC)

This listing is for a beautiful mid century modern dining table designed by the famous Danish-American designer and architect Jens Risom (visit risom.org to learn all about him) at a fantastic price. Many of Risom's design works are considered classic examples of the period and were influential to the design of the time.

This table is one of his classic designs and appears in his 1949 catalog on the risom.org website (see image at bottom, or this link). The version in the catalog is smaller in size; the one for sale today may be a later permutation of the same design or a size variation from the same date.

In any case, you simply can not find a table of this quality anywhere for $350, and certainly not one that will hold its value so well. This is a beautiful and functional piece. The design is simple, clean, and practical - it has plenty of leg space, and is expandable / collapsible to fit your space or dinner crowd. According to the seller's description, the table is in good condition with some wear. Knowing the seller, Brandon of Cantilever Modern, I am sure that the piece is in very good overall condition. The bottom line is that if I had not just finished restoring my Heywood Wakefield wishbone table, I would be buying this table. If you need one, you should too.

Danish Modern Sofa

Mid-Century Danish Modern Sofa - $175 (Dupont Circle)

This listing is for a clean and simple mid century Danish modern style sofa. The sofa features dark, walnut colored wood with a simple construction and six black vinyl (?) cushions. This piece has many mid century Danish modern design qualities including the tapered legs, strong horizontal lines, low profile, and an overall simple/unadorned appearance.

I'm not wild about these cushions (too thin and seem a little small for the sofa), but they would be easy to replace and would make this a much more attractive sofa. The price is ideal - $175 is pretty much unbeatable, and the seller is willing to take offers. If you are in the market for a mid century sofa, this is a great opportunity.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1054651113.html

Re-List: Herman Miller Eames Lounge Chair - Rosewood

RE-LIST, NEW PRICE: Eames Lounge Chair by Herman Miller - Now $650

This chair was originally listed around the end of January 2009 for $1,500 and was just reduced to just $650. A much better deal!

This is perhaps the most coveted, and yet widely available, piece of all mid century modern furniture, and is regularly seen in movies, tv, magazines, design forums, etc. The chair was designed by Charles and Ray Eames and has been produced by Herman Miller since 1956. It includes bent, veneered shells, soft individually upholstered leather cushions, and a die cast aluminum frame.

These chairs have been offered in a wide variety of veneers over the years (see Herman Miller's website for today's options). Those done in Brazilian Rosewood, as is the one in this listing, are, in my experience, the most sought after. A mint condition chair like this would easily sell for over $3000, and possibly more, depending on the edition / age. See this post for more information on how to tell the real thing from a fake (they are common).

The chair in this post does have some significant flaws that really detract from its value. Most importantly, there is a crack in the veneer that appears to have been repaired with a metal brace of some sort. I have no idea how difficult or costly this would be to repair, but certainly it is not trivial and in the end you will have a repaired / restored piece that is not totally original. I have seen spare parts of these chairs online, so it may be possible to replace that section altogether. Also, the upholstery on this one is less than ideal... white suede. Original upholstery is strongly preferred, or at least a high quality attempt to match the original leather.

With those points in mind, my initial reaction is that $1500 is a little high (NOW $650!), but not unreasonable. It would be worth a little research on eBay to see how pieces in this condition have sold recently, and what it might cost to restore this one to better condition.

Finally, in fact checking for this post I came across the video from 1956 when this chair was first introduced to the public on the predecessor to NBCs Today Show (See Below!). This includes a great discussion with Charles and Ray Eames about the design and concept behind this chair and some of their other chairs. Definitely worth a look!

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1051216837.html

Thonet Arm Chairs

Mid Century Eames Era Arm Chairs - $75 (SW Waterfront)

This listing is for six original arms chairs by Thonet, with labels intact. They are beautifully designed and made of dark-stained walnut and light naugahyde upholstery. I love the way the backrest / arms are supported directly by the legs, which also hold the seat. It is a very simple and functional design, and these chairs appear to be in great condition.

The Thonet furniture company was founded by Michael Thonet around 1855-6 after he had developed and began producing his first (and according to many, the world's first) bentwood chair. Although Michael Thonet died in 1871, the company was a leading manufacturer of chairs for long after, and is still around today.

The fact that these chairs bear their original Thonet labels is a huge bonus. They are also quite stylish and will certainly remain valuable and collectible for many years. The seller has six and is offering them for $75 a piece. I can't find any other sales or listings for these chairs online, and it is difficult for me to assess whether or not this is a fair / realistic price. I guess it is up to the buyer to decide... All in all, a great set of chairs.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1046043533.html

Mid Century Modern Vase

Mid Century / Modern / Vintage Vase / Pitcher - $20 (Centreville)

This listing is for a very modern and very mid century turquoise pottery pitcher / vase with a faux wood handle. It has a very simple and stylish design and would make a great compliment to your mid century living room furniture, kitchen, etc. The design looks very Scandinavian / Danish to me. Overall a great piece at a great price - you could not find a new vase like this for anything approaching $20.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/hsh/1045467936.html

Free Mid Century Chair (and sofa)

Modern Furniture, Needs Reupholstering - FREE (Gaithersburg)

This chair is by no means amazing. But it is free. And I do love the profile, the wooden arms, and the wicker, which combine to give the chair a very mid century look.

Clearly needs to be reupholstered, but looks good otherwise. Can't beat the price!

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/zip/1047641214.html

P.s. the seller also has a free sofa available...

Danish Modern Dining Chairs

Vintage/Retro Danish Modern Dining Chairs - Set of 6 - $240 (DC)

This is a beautiful set of six, very Danish modern dining chairs. The chairs have swooping bent wood backs and seats, which are upholstered in bright blue fabric. These chairs are very unique, and very funky. They appear to be in good condition, as the seller claims. The seller also notes, correctly, that these chairs are identical to chairs produced by Kodawood of Miami, although these are unmarked.

In any case, this is a fantastic and unique set of chairs at a very reasonable price. Would make a great addition to your Danish modern dining room.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1044700684.html

Lane Acclaim Buffet + China Cabinet

Lane China Cabinet / Hutch - $250 (Leesburg)

This listing is for a great buffet with a resting, floating china cabinet made by Lane. The buffet has the pronounced dovetailing that was standard on furniture in Lane's Acclaim line. I looked around a bit but did not find any pictures of this particular piece in Acclaim resources online, and can therefore only assume that it was part of the Acclaim line based on its distinct design features.

Lane has always been a quality furniture company, and the Acclaim pieces are very collectible and valuable these days (particularly the tables). Because I can't find another piece like this out there, it is hard to know what its "real" value is. However, I do know that this is a great piece of mid century furniture in good condition made by a well-known manufacturer and worth well over the $250 asking price.

If you are in the market for a mid century buffet / credenza / china cabinet, this is a great find.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1045289738.html

Nice Orange Danish Modern Lounge Chair

Vintage Orange Eames Era Mid Century Modern Chair - $125 (Silver Spring)

Here is a listing for a Danish modern style fabric and wood chair. The chair has a nice lounge style with a great vintage orange fabric. It is unclear who the chair's manufacturer is, but it appears to be in good condition, with the exception of fabric fraying on the arms as indicated by the seller.

Overall a nice mid century chair at a reasonable price.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/fuo/1043600872.html

Arco Style Floor Lamp

George Kovacs Polished Chrome Arc Floor Lamp - $150 (Silver Spring / Kensington)

Here is an imitation of the famous Arco Lamp designed by Achille and Pierre Giacomo Castiglioni. There are many imitations of this lamp, and although this one is not an exact copy, it is fairly close in appearance (with the exception of the base) and is certainly a high quality reproduction. This one is "by" George Kovacs and produced by Minka. It is coated in polished chrome throughout, and has a white marble base. A new one like this can be bought for around $350, and other similar reproductions and variations are out there (see CB2 for example). You can also still buy new licensed originals for $2,300 and up.

Overall, if you like the style of this piece and are not looking to shell out $2300 for an original, this is a great bet. Price is $150, which seems pretty reasonable overall. This would be a fantastic addition to your modern living room or study.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/fuo/1026304228.html

German Modern Desk Chair

German Modern Office Chair - $95 (Fairfax)

This listing is for a mid century modern office / desk chair made by Wilkhahn in Germany. The chair is upholstered in cloth with a blue/purple seat, with an orange, hard plastic back, and metal arms and legs. This is very unique and funky chair and appears to be in good condition. Would make a great addition to mid century office decor. A reasonable price, especially after negotiation.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1018162331.html

Danish Modern Coffee Table

Vintage Teak Coffee Table - $75 (Fairfax Circle)

This listing is for a Danish modern style teak coffee table. This is a common coffee table design from this period, with a long, low profile, tapered legs, and a "lower level" truss.

The picture and description of this item leave a lot of questions, but a quick email to the seller will surely get an answer. The price seems reasonable but that is completely dependent upon the quality of the piece and the condition, which are not readily visible.

Note that the seller is willing to take offers. Possibly a good find for those of you looking to add to your Danish modern decor.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1009972716.html

Eames Molded Plastic Chair

Eames / Herman Miller Fiberglass Armshell Chair - $185 (Tenleytown)

This listing is for an elephant gray Eames molded plastic armchair produced by Herman Miller. See my post from last week for details about this piece as well as a great video of the original manufacturing process.

According to the listing, the bottom of this chair is stamped "September 25 1957" and, of course, bears the original marking from Herman Miller. These chairs are very collectible, but also very durable, and so there are still plenty around and many are in good condition. This particular chair seems to be in good condition overall, as the seller states, and has the original glides and bolts.

Gray is a fairly popular color, and the armchair version of these seem to be more valuable and collectible. However, this style of base (sometimes called "H" base) is probably the least valuable. Prices for these are all over the map, depending on the year of production, condition, color, and base configuration, so it is difficult to say whether this is a good price or not. In any case, it is certainly not an outrageous price, and if you are looking for an Eames molded plastic chair, this is certainly a good option.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1014144923.html

Mid Century Walnut Space Saving Table

Walnut Drop-Leaf Table - $350 (Dupont)

This listing is for a very functional walnut kitchen/dining table. The table can drop both leaves and become very narrow, about a foot wide by the looks of it, or extend to seat 4 comfortably. The wood grain is a very nice, natural walnut and appears to be in good condition.

The only downside here is the price - $350 is too much. However, this table has been re-posted several times over at least a month, so perhaps the seller would consider a much lower offer - like, $200. Certainly worth an email if you are in a tight living space and in the market for a mid century table.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/doc/fuo/1014280284.html

Steelcase Chairs (Ignore the Desk)

1970s Steelcase Office Chairs - $75 (Alexandria)

Please look past the ugly desk - or in front of it rather... I did, and that is how I ended up spotting the very cool Steelcase chair in seemingly good condition. The seller claims to have many of these, although it is not clear if they are all white with powder blue. I hope so, however, because this one looks fantastic.

Steelcase has been making high quality office furniture for many years and my efforts to dig up information on this particular chair online revealed only that it is from the 70s. Although I did see a post on Steelcase just last week over at The Mid-Century Modernist.

These are being offered for $75 each, which is high. I'm sure the seller will negotiate down to a more reasonable $30-50... After all, there are a lot of these out there, and he has a lot to get rid of. Certainly worht a shot!

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1005238667.html

Sun Room Sofa

1960s Florida Sun Room Sofa Excellent Condition - $70 (Alexandria)

This listing is for a simple, mid century sofa in what looks like its original upholstery in good condition (vinyl maybe?). It has a classic, long, low horizontal build that is very modern, and appears to have a metal frame (which the seller states is "totally structurally sound") and possibly wooden arms. The fabric gives a nice warm touch of color without being too loud or too subdued.

This is a nice piece that would look great in a sun room, or even living room or den. It is only $70 - what else can I say!

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1001144435.html

Lane Dresser and Credenza

Lane Mid Century Dresser and Matching Chest of Drawers - $200 (Reisterstown, MD)

This listing is for a uniquely styled credenza and matching dresser by Lane. These pieces are certainly more ornate than a lot of mid century furniture, particularly Danish modern, but nevertheless they have a relatively clean and horizontal style that makes them clearly mid century pieces. Produced by Lane (in Virginia), these seem to be more of a hybrid between mid century modern design and a more colonial style. It gives them quite a unique look and one that I've never seen before.

At $200 for the pair, the price is a steal. There is no indication of condition however, so be sure to ask.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/nva/fuo/1006889023.html

Mid Century Bedroom Set

Bedroom Set, Mid Century Modern - $450 (Bethesda)

This post is for a four-piece bedroom set with a unique mid century modern style. The four pieces are: a credenza / low dresser with a mirror, a tall dresser / chest, and two nightstands. All have a moderately dark wood stain that the seller describes as "walnut color" and each piece includes what looks like wicker as part of the facade. They appear to be in good overall condition.

Overall this is a unique bedroom set with a nice modern style (low profiles, horizontal lines, tapered legs, etc). It is also offered at a pretty reasonable price at $450, though certainly there is some room for negotiation.

http://washingtondc.craigslist.org/mld/fuo/1003518836.html