If you’ve been to a decorative art or design auction in recent years, then you’ve likely noticed that competition has been heating up. While prices for mid-century pieces have been steadily trending upwards for more than a decade, demand is now surging for formerly overlooked categories, such as ceramics and 18th-century furniture. Whether you are just starting a collection or starting over in a new home, look to Sotheby's Home for a selection of can’t-miss investment pieces. With an eye for great condition, top designers, style, rarity, provenance or all of the above, our team of curators has chosen items that are exceptional values.
Why we love them: This set of twelve custom armchairs puts a contemporary spin on the ever-popular Louis XIV style. Constructed by Bruce Martin Design in Malibu, the traditional silhouettes are covered with cheerful red upholstery splashed with poppies and peonies. Comfortably seating a group around the dining table, this practical and elegant set is a great foundation for a family collection.
Why we love them: These bureaus by Gilbert Rohde are more than just functional – they’re a part of history. Anticipating mid-century style by decades, the renowned industrial designer created them in the 1930s for Herman Miller, helping define American Modernism. They feature luxurious, padded crocodile front drawers and flared mahogany legs, lending an organic touch to your master suite or living room.
Why we love it: While many collectors of mid-century design focus on Scandinavian or American pieces, Italian works from the era are often a great value. This pristine chair may appear to be a contemporary interpretation of a historic design, but it is indeed vintage. The richly hued mohair upholstery and shining angled legs make this timeless Italian design an eye-catching addition to any living space.
Mid-Century Console
Why we love it: Sure to garner as many compliments as the books or objects it holds, this dual-sided étagère features five shelves composed of rare bird’s-eye maple, cayenne lacquer and brushed brass. Its modular grid reflects the geometric trends of mid-century design, but its mixed-media composition lends an artistic twist that transcends easy categorization. We treasure it for its superior versatility and design.
