What is Mid-Century Modern?

What is mid-century modern? While the term mid-century modern speaks more to style than a specific period of time, objects in this mode were most typically produced between 1935-1965. Because mid-century modern's occurrence was most predominantly from 1945-1960, it is sometimes referred to as "fifties style." The best way to understand mid-century modern design is to experience it. Ware in this style may communicate its spirit subtlety or provocatively, classically or unexpectedly, casually or elegantly, but always simply and honestly. -- adapted from Mid-Century Modern Dinnerware (Schiffer Publishing, Ltd., 2002)

Modern dinnerware & pottery created during the mid-1900s, for the most part, avoided the extravagances of some turn-of-the-century modern designs. Rather than being art for art's sake, mid-century modern dinnerware was intended to be practical and aesthetically compelling. Ware was both engineered and sculpted: attention to functionality was as important as its dramatic appeal. Mid-century modern forms were comprised of simple geometries--graceful curves, flowing lines, and elementary shapes. Design during this period drew inspiration from organic structures in nature, technological and futuristic forms, and even prehistoric life and art.

Enthusiasts of mid-century modern style typically avoid realistic depictions and traditional florals, opting instead for highly stylized, abstract, or geometric patterns and solid or speckled glazes.

Who manufactured mid-century modern ceramics? Ware in this style was manufactured by nearly every pottery in America during the 1950s. Around 1950, roughly half of the dinnerware produced in the United States was modern in style. Before and after the century mid-point, traditional styles typically were predominant--even during the mid-century. But even in provincial and traditional ware, one can often see the influence of modern on traditional decoration and form. In fact, hybrid dinnerware services were perhaps more common than purely modern and traditional services--at least amongst the casual ware. The term hybrid refers to a mixture of traditional elements with modern elements. The advantage for the manufacturer offering hybrid style is fairly obvious: mixed styling targets more than one audience. Traditionalists, modernists, and those on the edge, might all be attracted by the same line. Practically speaking, older established sensibilities tended to be traditional, while younger households often opted for modern styling.

Why should I collect mid-century modern dinnerware & pottery? There are many reasons why people choose to collect mid-century modern ceramics (and there are many of us, from all walks of life, that collect). First, this style of dinnerware & pottery is compelling. It is often aesthetically pleasing and well designed. Production during the mid-century was often very hands on, requiring skill and artistry. The forms and decorations are interesting and frequently display like the great works of art and design that they are. Many homes and apartments are decorated with the most treasured items. Collecting mid-century modern (mcm) objects is fun. Besides all the wonderful ceramic friends you make, there are many terrific people interested in collecting this genre of ware. Many of us have had the chance to meet fellow collectors who are dentists, doctors, nurses, lawyers, investment bankers, opera singers, graphic designers, industrial designers, students, curators, librarians--the list goes on and on. The friends you meet along the way are collecting's greatest rewards. Collectors collect for fun. There is much to be said for the relaxation that can come from diverting the mind from its usual profession during excursions to flea markets, thrift stores, antique malls, estate sales, garage sales, and junk shops. Some collectors and dealers have also found mid-century modern dinnerware to be a good investment. Even past troubled economies, dinnerware prices, although definitely affected, still have maintained significant value. Other pieces continue to soar in price. This having been said, collecting anything carries with it the risk of losing value. The true value of collecting is in the friends and enjoyment you get from your hobby.

Where can I find mid-century modern dinnerware & pottery? It's everywhere. Vintage modern dinnerware may be in your mother's or grandmother's attic or basement, packed away. Look in flea markets, garage sales, rummage sales, estate auctions, tag sales, antique shops and malls, pottery and glass shows, modernism shows, online antique shops, china replacement houses, and of course, eBay!