Brown Saltman Furniture
American
The enduring modern design legacy of Brown Saltman was born from the collaboration between designer Paul Frankl and furniture manufacturer David Saltman. Together, they created stunning mid-century modern solid wood furniture with Art Deco influences. Brown Saltman side tables, cocktail tables and credenzas are known for their thoughtful designs and exquisite details.
Frankl was a leading American designer who came to prominence in the 1930s by making rattan furniture for Hollywood stars. However, he dreamed of bringing his designs to the public. That chance came in 1939, when he met Saltman at a party. Saltman was the head of the Los Angeles-based Brown Saltman, which, at the time, specialized in furniture reproductions.
He asked Frankl to create a furniture line, which was released in 1941. It was a hit, with sales exceeding expectations. Frankl quickly started work on a new line for mass production. It featured simplified designs and less expensive materials like combed wood and textured plywood. This line was even more successful, and Frankl started on a third.
In 1942, Frankl and Saltman signed an extended contract to continue their collaboration. However, Saltman died in a traffic accident the next day. World War II also brought Brown Saltman production to a standstill. After the war ended, Frankl decided not to renew his contract.
Brown Saltman partnered with many other designers over the years. A walnut sideboard by Van Keppel-Green for Brown Saltman was featured in the Museum of Modern Art’s 1950-51 Good Design exhibition. Architect and interior designer Paul Laszlo also designed a commercial furniture line for the company in the 1950s.
Brown Saltman dissolved in 1960, but its well-built and beautifully designed furniture remains in high demand today.
On 1stDibs, find vintage Brown Saltman tables, storage cabinets, seating and more.
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Creator: Brown Saltman
Dealer: 2220 Antiques
A mid century modern Paul Laszlo for Brown Saltman cantilevered coffee table.
By Paul Laszlo, Brown Saltman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A mid century modern Paul Laszlo for Brown Saltman blonde mahogany cantilevered coffee table. A Classic design by Paul Laszlo for the prominent California design company Brown Saltman.
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Brown Saltman Furniture
Materials
Mahogany
Pair of MId-Century side tables. Designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman.
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Pair of Mid-Century side tables. Designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman.
Walnut with gold/copper pebbled resin design under glass tops. 1960's.
Category
1960s Mid-Century Modern Vintage Brown Saltman Furniture
Materials
Resin, Walnut
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Previously Available Items
Walnut Side Table with Gold/Copper Pebbled Resin Top, John Keal for B. Saltman
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Brown Saltman furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
Brown Saltman furniture are available for sale on 1stDibs. These distinctive items are frequently made of wood and are designed with extraordinary care. Many of the original furniture by Brown Saltman were created in the Art Deco style in united states during the 18th century and earlier. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider furniture by Calvin, John Keal, and Richard Schultz. Prices for Brown Saltman furniture can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $950 and can go as high as $950, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $950.
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