American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville is today revered as one of the finest manufacturers of mid-century modern furniture in the United States, but its beginnings were unexpectedly humble.
Well ahead of the Civil War, tobacco was a cash crop in places such as Virginia, and the plant was grown with frequency on farms in Martinsville and elsewhere. In the early 1900s, the business around tobacco was changing and the R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company was expanding nationally, buying any Virginia factories in reach. Former tobacco producers Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee turned away from the business in 1906 and, with merely $30,000 in capital (and the support of local business leaders), began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company.
In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings. Alongside tallboy dressers and nightstands, Witten and Keesee’s outfit began to offer a range of dining-room sets to the discerning customer. By the 1950s, the name had been changed to American of Martinsville and the brand had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as its variety of furniture styles (Hollywood Regency, chinoiserie). Mass-marketed furniture meant big business in the postwar years and throughout the 20th century in Virginia, and factories owned by companies like Bassett Furniture and American of Martinsville remained busy as suburbanites bought furniture to fill the homes they were moving into.
It isn’t difficult to spot American of Martinsville’s sturdy, solid designs — the lacquered walnut nightstands, mahogany coffee tables and more have long earned the admiration of mid-century modernism enthusiasts. The company’s high profile also owes to prominent attributes that distinguish its well-made vintage furniture, such as the use of wooden slats — inspired by Scandinavian modernism — on hutches and cabinet doors, the famous brass x’s inlaid on the tops of tables and dressers and the stately stacked type of the American of Martinsville logo, which usually appears in drawer interiors. The stamp prominently features an eagle perched atop the lettering, its broad wings spread across the “American” portion.
Besides quality manufacturing, American of Martinsville is additionally recognized for having incorporated the trends of the day. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul Laszlo, the brand was also known for innovations with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company’s most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun’s most popular line was reportedly Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries.
Shop a wide selection of vintage American of Martinsville mid-century modern sideboards, side tables and more on 1stDibs.
2
260
to
39
257
260
260
260
229
6
3
3
2
1
1
1
1
259
180
54
35
76
44
1
252
147
111
82
27
230
224
2
1
1
147
5,448
4,000
2,459
2,233
Creator: American of Martinsville
Merton L. Gershun Walnut Writing Desk for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Merton L. Gershun walnut writing desk for American of Martinsville.
________________________________________
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing h...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Merton Gershun Bali-Hi Dresser, ca. 1950’s
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
Chic, sophisticated and stylish Bali Hi dresser, designed by Merton Gurshun for American of Martinsville. The dresser has six deep drawers each having faux bam...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mahogany
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville MCM Urban Suburban Nightstand
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century urban suburban nightstand
This nightstand measures: 22 wide x 17 deep x 22 inches high
All...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Merton Gershun Bali Hi Dresser by American of Martinsville, ca. 1950’s
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in New York, NY
Chic and stylish 5 drawer dresser in bleached mahogany with decorative faux bamboo front. The chest features an architecturally inspired case, which surrounds the drawer fronts, creating a dimensional design element to the cabinet. From the sought after, and hard to find Bali Hi...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mahogany
Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville Mid Century Diamond Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville mid century diamond highboy dresser
This dresser measures: 38.5 wide x 18.5 deep x 48 inches high
All ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century X Inlaid Coffee Table or
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century X inlaid coffee table or bench
This table measures: 54 wide x 20.5 deep x 14.25 high
All pieces of furniture can be had ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Walnut End Tables, a Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Germantown, MD
Two side tables from American of Martinsville one (rectangular) measures 21 inches tall by 22 inches wide by 27 inches deep. Second ( square) measures 21 inches high by 25 inches wid...
Category
Mid-20th Century North American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Nightstands by American of Martinsville, a Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Stylish pair of Mid-Century Modern nightstands manufactured by American of Martinsville. Well-built frame with walnut veneer exterior. A nice addition to any modern interior. Please ...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
American of Martinsville End Table
By American of Martinsville
Located in Medina, OH
Beautiful refinished American of Martinsville end table with a gorgeous and unique top!
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Merton Gershun American of Martinsville MCM Urban Suburban 5-Drawer Highboy
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Urban Suburban 5-Drawer Highboy Dresser
This dresser measures: 38 wide x 19 deep x 42 inches ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Chrome
Classic Mid-Century Walnut Dresser by Merton Gershun / American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Buffalo, NY
Stunning walnut Modernist dresser designed by Merton Gershun ,,manufactured by American Of Martinsville. Classic aluminum x's and asymetrical pulls. Beautiful original condition. Han...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Aluminum
Renzo Rutili Style Monumental Dresser/Credenza by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Dallas, TX
A stunningly sophisticated design from the 1960's, this piece feels like Renzo Rutili but is from a rare series by American of Martinsville. A modern interpretation on refined neocla...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Cart by Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Rolling bar cart with two drawers and bottom liquor shelf. Laminate top used for liquids.
Location: Brooklyn NY.
Category
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Mid-Century Modern Long Low Profile Credenza with Round Ring Drop Pulls
By Tommi Parzinger, American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern drop ring pulls cabinet credenza dresser with marquetry style top.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Handsome Pair of American of Martinsville Walnut Brass Louvered Bachelors Chests
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Handsome pair of American of Martinsville louvered walnut bachelor’s chests. We love the stylish louvered drawer fronts and handsome brass banding along the base.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century X Inlaid Walnut Side End
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century X inlaid walnut side end table
End table measures: 20 wide x 27 deep x 19 inches high
All pieces of furniture can be had i...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Chrome
American of Martinsville Asian Inspired Large Square Side Table or Nightstand
By James Mont, American of Martinsville
Located in Doylestown, PA
Fabulous vintage Asian inspired square walnut side table or nightstand by American of Martinsville.
This handsome table features a modern, clean silhouette with a lacquered, ebonize...
Category
1970s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Light Olive Lacquer Oriental Base Legs 3 Drawer Accent Dresser Bachelor Chest
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern decorative olive lacquer brass drop pulls small three drawer dresser bachelor chest in fully restored condition.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Large Oversize Cube Shape Square 2 Drawers Light Walnut Nightstand Table Mint
By American of Martinsville, Paul McCobb
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Large oversize cube shape square 2 drawers light walnut end side table night stand mint.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
American of Martinsville Walnut Bench by Merton Gershun
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Esperance, NY
American of Martinsville walnut bench by Merton Gershun.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville MCM Urban Suburban Full Headboard
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Urban Suburban full headboard
This headboard measures: 58 wide x 2 deep x 31 inches high
A...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Rosewood Ebony Nightstand / End Table by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A rosewood and ebony toned two drawer nightstand / end table with chrome pulls having aluminum trim to the lower stretcher and leg area. A very tight and crisp looking design retaini...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Milo Baughman Style American of Martinsville Mid Century Blonde Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville, Milo Baughman
Located in Countryside, IL
Milo Baughman style American of Martinsville mid century blonde highboy dresser
Dresser measures: 36 wide x 20.5 deep x 44 inches high
All p...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Chrome
American of Martinsville Mid Century Rosewood End Tables, a Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
American of Martinsville mid century rosewood end tables - A pair
Each side table measures: 25 wide x 28 deep x 19 inches high
Al...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood, Rosewood
American Walnut Block Front 6 Drawers Long Dresser Credenza Restored Mint
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern gorgeous American walnut six drawer block front dresser.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Rare Five-Drawer Mahogany Faux Bamboo Chest by American of Martinsville, 1952
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Five-drawer chest by American of Martinsville
1952
Bleached Philippine mahogany faux bamboo with five drawers.
The three bottom drawe...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Faux Bamboo, Mahogany
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Ebonized Credenza
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century ebonized credenza
The credenza measures: 50 wide x 19 deep x 32 inches high
All pieces of furniture can be had in what w...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Chrome
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville MCM Walnut Square Coffee Table
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century walnut square coffee table
The table measures: 31 wide x 31 deep x 16 inches high
All pieces of furniture can be had in ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Mid Century American Walnut Gentleman's Chest Dresser w/ Two Doors Compartment
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
Mid-Century Modern American walnut two doors compartment five drawers high chest dresser cabinet.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Unique Wood Server by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Delightful burl and wood bar server made by American of Martinsville. Lovely server because not only is it great looking and stylish but it has tons of storage options. Two pull out ...
Category
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Burl
Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville Mid Century Nightstand
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
Albert Parvin for American of Martinsville mid century nightstand
This nightstand measures: 21 wide x 16 deep x 22.5 inches high
All pieces of furniture can be had in what we c...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Two-Tier Bedside Table Pair
By American of Martinsville, George Nelson
Located in Van Nuys, CA
American of Martinsville two-tier bedside tables in the style of Geroge Nelson with top pull-out drawer and X-shaped metal inlays, circa 1950.
Signed...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Steel
American of Martinsville Mid Century Harlequin Walnut Mirror
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
American of Martinsville Mid Century Harlequin Walnut Mirror
Mirror measures: 61 wide x 1 deep x 48 inches high
All pieces...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mirror, Walnut
Vintage Walnut Wall Mirror by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Elegant wall mirror by American of Martinsville, showing off a rich walnut woodgrain and Mid-Century design. Please confirm item location with seller (NY/NJ).
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mirror, Walnut
Walnut Sideboard with Cane Doors by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Dorchester, MA
From the Accord collection by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville, this mid-century modern sideboard features a walnut case on a plinth base with signature inset aluminum Xs ...
Category
1960s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Aluminum
Mid-Century Modern Five Drawers High Chest Dresser with Brass Accents
By American of Martinsville
Located in Rockaway, NJ
American of Martinsville Mid-Century Modern walnut high chest dresser with block front drawers and brass accents.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Full Size Headboard
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century full size headboard
This headboard measures 55 wide x 2 deep x 31.5 inches hig...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Dining Chairs by American of Martinsville, Set of 6
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Unusual set of midcentury dining chairs manufactured by the American Furniture Company of Martinsville, Virginia. This set includes four side chairs and two armchairs. Handsomely scu...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Upholstery, Wood
Expertly Restored - Mid-Century Modern Nightstands by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Mid-Century Modern nightstands by American of Martinsville.
________________________________________
Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing history b...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Laminate, Walnut
Walnut Credenza by American of Martinsville with a Louvered Front
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This massive vintage modern sideboard features three louvered drawers in the middle and two large storage compartments on the sides. The rich walnut finish, sculpted brass handles, a...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Credenza from the Dania Collection
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Asbury Park, NJ
Nice credenza designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville for the Dania collection. Nice walnut finish with great brass accent. Offers amp...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
American of Martinsville Ebonized Ash Stepped Side Table
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Mid-Century Modern, ebonized ash, stepped side table by American of Martinsville features a lower tier with steel inlay at 16.5 inches height.
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Steel
American of Martinsville Mid-Century High Chest with Bras Inlay, circa 1960
By American of Martinsville
Located in Philadelphia, PA
An American of Martinsville Mid-Century walnut high chest with bras inlay, circa 1960.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Modern Cocktail Table by Merton Gershun
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Port Jervis, NY
Merton Gershun cocktail table with replaced hairpin iron legs. Walnut has been refinished and waxed for protection. In excellent vintage condition with minimal wear.
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Iron
American of Martinsville Mid Century Drop Leaf Dining Table with Metal Accents
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
American of Martinsville Mid Century Drop Leaf Dining Table with Metal Accented Legs
Table without leaves measures: 26 wide x 40 deep x 30 high
Table with two leaves measures : ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Metal
Rare Five-Drawer Mahogany Faux Bamboo Chest by American of Martinsville, 1952
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pasadena, TX
Five-drawer chest by American of Martinsville
1952
Bleached Philippine mahogany faux bamboo with five drawers.
The three bottom drawer f...
Category
1950s North American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Ash
Large Bleached Mahogany Dresser by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Large bleached mahogany dresser by American of Martinsville. Stamped.
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Bubble Glass Cabinet Merton Gershun American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Buffalo, NY
Seldom seen modernist server with stunning Bubble glass top designed by Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville. Featuring three generous storage to bottom, three drawers, one being silverware drawer and two door top display locking...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
American Martinsville Walnut Mirror, circa 1955
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Camden, ME
Simple elegant mirror designed by Merton Gershun for his Dania line for American of Martinsville. Rosewood colored walnut. The use of...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mirror, Walnut
Classic Modernist Chest of Drawers or Dresser, American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
A Classic tall chest by Merton Gershun for his Dania collection manufactured by American of Martinsville. Features three drawers over three generous drawers with louver fronts. Brass...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Pair of Black Lacquer Asian Modern End Tables or Stands American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Pair of black lacquer Asian Modern end tables or stands American of Martinsville. Asian inspired step end tables with drawer. Original black lacquer finish, gold detailing with brass...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Brass
Mid-Century Modern Merton Gershun American of Martinsville Walnut End Table
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in Wilmington, DE
Offered is a walnut end table designed by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville. Features one drawer with a brass pull and the iconic x-shaped brushed aluminium inlaid detai...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Pair of Merton Gershun American of Martinsville Nightstands
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pasadena, TX
A pair of vintage nightstands by Merton Gershun manufactured by American of Martinsville. One drawer on each with brushed aluminum pulls and the top features an X-shaped ornamental i...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Handsome American of Martinsville Tall Walnut Rosewood Dresser Chest of Drawers
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Handsome Mid-Century Modern tall walnut and rosewood American of Martinsville chest of drawers dresser. We love the simple li...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
A Pair of American of Martinsville Occasional Tables with Caned Shelf
By American of Martinsville
Located in St.Petersburg, FL
A pair of American of Martinsville occasional tables. Pull out drawer, caned shelf underneath. Walnut/black micarta tops.
Category
1960s American Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville Bamboo Motif Mahogany Vanity
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Outstanding, Mid-Century Modern, mahogany vanity by American of Martinsville features 4, recessed, "wormhole" bamboo motif drawers framed in a contrasting ebonized finish with a 3 in...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Mirror, Mahogany
Midcentury Walnut American of Martinsville Highboy Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Vintage-modern highboy dresser by American of Martinsvile featuring six drawers with beautiful walnut grain throughout.
Please confirm item location NY or NJ with dealer.
Category
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Walnut
Pair of American of Martinsville Lacquered Nightstands, Mid-Century Modern
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pemberton, NJ
Handsome pair of American of Martinsville black lacquered nightstands with round white ceramic pulls. We love the interesting shape of t...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Furniture
Materials
Wood
American Of Martinsville furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. There are many options to choose from in our collection of American of Martinsville furniture, although brown editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original furniture by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in north america during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by John Widdicomb, Planner Group, and John Stuart. Prices for American of Martinsville furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $322 and can go as high as $39,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $2,348.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Furniture
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American of Martinsville, which was founded in 1906, is still in business. The company now manufactures furniture for hotel and healthcare industries.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 7, 2024How much an American of Martinsville dresser weighs can vary greatly. The dimensions and materials of the piece will determine its weight. Generally, highboy dressers will be the heaviest pieces produced by the American furniture maker due to their size. Shop a diverse assortment of American of Martinsville dressers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertMay 14, 2024The history of Martinsville furniture starts with the founding of the company in Martinsville, Virginia, in 1906 by Ancil Witten and Charles Keesee, a pair of former tobacco farmers. They launched their business with $30,000 in capital and began to manufacture bedroom furniture under the name American Furniture Company. In the 1920s, American Furniture Company expanded its offerings from bedroom furnishings with a range of dining room sets. By the 1950s, the company’s name had been changed to American of Martinsville, and it had gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship as well as a variety of furniture styles. Inspired by designers like George Nakashima and Paul László, the brand innovated with wood. Merton Gershun was one of the company's most prolific designers, and he was responsible for some of its most successful modern furniture lines using the richer, darker woods that would become emblematic of mid-century furniture. Gershun's most popular line was Dania, with its sleek walnut credenzas fitted with stylish brass accents and large drawers. Today, American of Martinsville specializes in furniture for the healthcare and hospitality industries. Find a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
- What is Elgin American?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Elgin American was an American brand known for producing watches, jewelry and compacts during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Illinois Watchcase Company owned it. In 1901, the company abandoned the Elgin name due to trademark infringement claims made by the Elgin National Watch Co. Find a selection of Elgin American art, jewelry and watches on 1stDibs.
- What is American oak?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021American oak comes from oak trees that grow in America (as opposed to in Europe). While both are pale, American oaks have a slightly pink undertone and European oaks have a honey-hued undertone.
- What do Americans call a sofa?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024What Americans call a sofa varies. Often, people living in the U.S. refer to an upholstered furnishing designed to hold more than one person as a couch. However, the word sofa is also commonly used in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- 1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021A Native American artifact is any object that provides insight into the lives and history of native people in America. These items range from carved stone pipes, weapons for hunting, tools for cooking, pottery, jewelry and more. Find a collection of artifacts on 1stDibs today.
- What color is American walnut?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021With respect to the actual wood, the outer layer of American walnut — the sapwood — has a creamy yellow-white color whereas the inner layer — the heartwood — ranges from a golden brown to dark chocolate brown color. In more descriptive words, the color of American walnut embodies the richness of chocolate mixed with slight undertones of red wine. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage American walnut furniture.
- What is African American quilting?2 Answers1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022African American quilting has roots in history during slavery and was a way for African American women to bond. The quilts themselves tell stories of history, teach lessons and are beacons of hope. Shop a collection of African American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The history of African-American quilting stretches back almost as far as the beginning of the United States itself. The craft began with slave women quilting on plantations and after emancipation, the tradition of quilting continued. Today, there are many African American quilters who are inspired by a number of different quilting traditions. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of African-American quilts from some of the world’s top sellers.
- What is American cut glass?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertOctober 12, 2021American cut glass is a technique used for decorating glass. The period from 1771 to 1876 is considered the early period of American cut glass — later, cut glass was called Brilliant glass. This technique is associated with high labor costs and involves the work of skilled craftsmen — American cut glass is considered a luxury item and can be very valuable.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native Americans used to produce baskets varied from tribe to tribe. Generally, craftsmen used whatever materials were readily available. In the Northeast, sweet grass was a common material, while pine needles and wicker are frequently found in baskets produced by tribes in the Southeast. Find a range of vintage and antique baskets on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022In the Native American language of Powhatan spoken by the Algonquian indigenous people, moccasin refers to a hand-sewn suede bootie. Today, people may call any shoes that feature stitched round toes by the name. Shop a variety of moccasins on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022There are a wide array of different dolls made by the various tribes of Native American peoples. Some of the most well-known are the kachinas made by the Navajo, Hopi and Pueblo peoples. Shop an array of Native American dolls on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 13, 2023Some famous African-American artists include Horace Pippin, Augusta Savage, Romare Bearden, Jacob Lawrence, Aaron Douglas, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Kerry James Marshall, Theaster Gates, Sam Gillam, Kara Walker and Kehinde Wiley. Shop a variety of African-American art from some of the world’s top galleries on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022The most well-known Native American blankets come from Navajo weaving, which are prized by collectors worldwide. Originally utilitarian, the Navajo people began creating blankets specifically for export and tourism in the 19th century. Shop a collection of Navajo blankets from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What Native American drums are called varies by type. Ones designed to rest in the player's lap are hand drums, while instruments that hold water used primarily by the Iroquois and Yaqui are water drums. Large freestanding drums that produce loud percussive sounds are powwow drums. The Aztec and Hopi used foot drums. You'll find a range of Native American drums on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022Native American slippers are called moccasins. Moccasins are characterized by their U-shaped puckered toe design and are crafted with various leathers such as sheepskin or buffalo. They may or may not be decorated with beading. Shop a collection of authentic moccasins from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022It depends on which region the beads were made since they were created out of available materials found in the land around them. In the Eastern Woodlands, white and purple marine shell beads were called “wampum”. You can shop a collection of Native American beadwork from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022To identify Native American baskets, you can research the patterns using authoritative online resources to try and determine which tribe produced it. However, many replicas exist and there are many tribes that produced baskets. As a result, it is a good idea to consult a licensed appraiser. On 1stDibs, find a variety of expertly vetted Native American baskets.
- 1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022What a Native American headdress represents depends on what tribe produced it. In general, headdresses may symbolize a person's status within the tribe or serve as a sign of bravery during battle. You'll find a selection of Native American headdresses on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021American Brilliant cut glass is deeply and sharply cut glass known for its reflective quality and highly polished nature. This type of glass is thick, heavy, and very clear.
Bonnin Ashley Antiques IncFebruary 23, 2021The difference between cut glass and cut crystal is the lead content along with some other criteria. "There are three primary criteria for crystal as established by the European Union in 1969: a lead content in excess of 24%, a density in excess of 2.90 and a reflective index of 1.545." "Prior to 1969 crystal glass was generally around 36% lead. However, due to concerns over lead leaching the percentage was reduced to the [unofficial} standard of 24%. Today glass with a lead content of 10% or more is considered to be crystal or “fine glass”" in the US.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville Dressers
American of Martinsville Bedroom Furniture
American of Martinsville Credenzas
American of Martinsville End Tables
American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
American of Martinsville Cabinets
American of Martinsville Side Tables
American of Martinsville Sideboards
American of Martinsville Dining Room Chairs
American of Martinsville Coffee and Cocktail Tables
American of Martinsville Dining Room Tables
American of Martinsville Buffets