Adrian Pearsall designed some of the most exuberant and expressive American chairs, sofas and other furniture of the 1950s and ’60s. For verve and vivacity of form, he surpasses even Vladimir Kagan — whose work is the emblem of swinging, sexy mid-20th century modernism. Pearsall gave his imagination free rein, and his flamboyant, eye-catching styles are icons of what has become known as “Atomic Age” design.
Pearsall studied architectural engineering at the University of Illinois before opening his Pennsylvania furniture company, Craft Associates, in 1952, and that training shows in many designs.
A Pearsall trademark, for example, is a lounge chair with an exceptionally tall, trapezoidal back, which give the pieces a skyscraper-like silhouette. Pearsall also had a talent for so-called Gondola sofas — long, low-slung pieces with upswept ends. Many of Pearsall’s sofas and chairs are supported not by legs, but on gently arced walnut skids.
Pearsall had a gift for tables, too, in particular glass-topped side tables and coffee tables with frames that have the look of an Alexander Calder stabile. As you will see from the offerings on 1stDibs, Pearsall had flair, and his work adds an attention-getting, sculptural exclamation point to any décor.
Find vintage Adrian Pearsall sofas, armchairs, coffee tables and other furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Magnificent 2 Piece Credenza Bar Stereo Cabinet
Located in Pemberton, NJ
As functional as it is visually stunning this extraordinary stereo cabinet/bar is the epitome of 'functional art'. Constructed of a mix of solid and veneered walnut with exceptional ...
Metal
Spectacular Asian Modern Chinoiserie Lacquered Credenza Hutch, Mid-Century
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Spectacular Asian modern black lacquered two-piece hutch credenza. This is one of those pieces that makes a huge impact-we love the zig-zag top detail. We know that hutches are kind ...
Glass, Wood
Fabulous Grosfeld House Style Splayed Legs Bar Desk Cabinet Mid-Century Modern
By Grosfeld House
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Fabulous Grosfeld House style walnut splayed legs bar cabinet. We love everything about this wonderful cabinet with the 2 pull-down doors revealing cubbies on one side and open space...
Walnut
Outstanding John Widdicomb Brutalist Credenza Mid-Century Modern
By John Widdicomb
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Outstanding John Widdicomb brutalist front walnut credenza. We just love the spectacular star shaped pulls along with unusually shaped legs. This special piece measures 31.5"t x 74...
Brass
Fabulous Curved Danish style 3 Bay Modular Wall Unit JA Wood-Craft
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Magnificent curved 3 bay wall unit modular shelving and storage system manufactured by JA Wood-Craft Ltd. in Montreal, Quebec, Canada during the 1970s. This vintage modernist wall un...
Glass, Oak
Wonderful Signed Harvey Probber Wall Mounted Credenza Mid-Century Modern
By Harvey Probber
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Wall-mounted credenza by Harvey Probber, American, 1950s. “Harvey Probber” label inside the top drawer on right side. This piece measures 22.5"t x 77.25"l x 18"d.
Aluminum
Very Fine Two Part Breakfront Sideboard Cabinet Wall Unit by John Widdicomb MINT
By John Widdicomb
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Very Fine Two Part Breakfront Sideboard Cabinet Wall Unit by John Widdicomb MINT. Decorative forged brass window grills have hinges and can be opened to maintain and clean the glass.
Brass
Italian Mid-Century Bar Cabinet/ Wall Unit
Located in North Miami, FL
This rich and warm walnut wall cabinet can be used as a bar with interior shelving and shelving space above. Two wonderful enameled metal panels to the front which are original.
Enamel
Armoire/bar brutaliste De Coene 1970's
Located in TOURCOING, FR
Armoire/bar brutaliste De Coene 1970's Armoire-bar brutaliste De Coene, Belgique – années 1970 Superbe meuble-bar au design brutaliste, reconnaissable à son jeu de contrastes très g...
Wood
Mid Century 2pc China Cabinet by Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This mid century modern China cabinet by Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville features hardwood construction, walnut veneer with original finish, two piece design with three ca...
Glass, Walnut
'Pueblo' Series Brutalist Armoire
By Lane Furniture
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-century modern American made gentleman's chest by Lane Furniture. Mosaic style front design on top of oak wood frame. Four wide drawers and storage space. Please confirm location...
Oak
Mid-Century Modern Italian Wall Unit, 1960s
Located in Brussels, BE
IMid-Century Modern Italian Wall Unit, 1960s
Wood
