Thursday, March 6, 2025

Mid-Century Marvel from Martinsville

The epitome of America mid-century modern design, this incredible credenza or china cabinet contrasts the natural beauty of golden glowing wood with accents of white laminate. American mid-century modern was a significant design movement stretching from 1945 through the 1960s. Influenced by European movements such as the German Bauhaus school and Scandinavian design, mid-century modern is characterized by the simplicity of its style, the extensive use of natural materials, and the lack of unnecessary embellishment, with an emphasis on craftsmanship and clean, uncluttered silhouettes. The combination of natural and man-made materials is also typical of mid-century modern.  With its compact size and stylish lines, this collectable piece of fine furniture would enhance any decor. 



Inside one of the drawer, this striking piece carries the mark of American of Martinsville. 


The back of the piece carries the model number and the designation "China," no doubt meaning it was intended as a hutch or cabinet to display your fine china or treasured trinkets.


American of Martinsville was founded in Martinsville, Virginia by former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee in 1906. Sensing that the tobacco market was changing as large concerns such as R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company were expanding across the country, the two men turned manufacturing bedroom furniture under the name the American Furniture Company. By the 1920s, the company was offering a wider range of furniture, In the 1950s, now operating as American of Martinsville, it offered a variety of furniture styles, hiring in-house designers to keep up with current trends. The company gained a reputation for fine craftsmanship and sophisticated design.  It also began producing furniture for the hospitality market. 

In 2000, American of Martinsville was purchased by La-Z-Boy Incorporated, which sold it six years later. Today, the company is belongs to the Akin Furniture Group, a family-owned business in Arkansas that specializes in furniture for the hospitality and healthcare industries.  

All posted items are for sale at Next-to-New, but things can sell quickly!

3-18688
















No comments:

Post a Comment