American of Martinsville Buffets
American
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.
to
Height
to
Width
to
Depth
to
4
4
4
4
3
1
2
1
1
4
2
2
1
1
4
4
4
4
4
119
58
57
27
21
Creator: American of Martinsville
Remarkable Chest or Buffet by American of Martinsville in Cream Lacquer
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
An absolutely jaw-dropping chest/buffet from a rare series by American of Martinsville, circa 1960. Beautiful, stout hardwood case construction, with brass and leather accents. Fabul...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville MCM Walnut and Brass China Cabinet
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut and Brass China Cabinet
This china cabinet measures: 50 wide x 18 deep x 57.75 inches high
All pieces of furniture ca...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
Stellar Restored Nakashima Style American of Martinsville 6 Drawer Chest - Pair
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
These magnificent commodes are shipped as professionally photographed and described in the listing narrative: Meticulously professionally restored and completely installation ready.
...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Mahogany
Exceptional Modern Buffet/Credenza by American of Martinsville in Cream Lacquer
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Beautiful Modern buffet/credenza by America of Martinsville, circa 1950. Functional case design offers a center bank of four ( 4 ) drawers, flanked by two ( 2 ) open compartments (...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Wood
Related Items
Mid-Century Modern Credenza from Dania by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Freehold, NJ
This Mid-Century Modern credenza from the Dania line by American of Martinsville features hardwood construction, walnut veneer with original finish, three large dovetailed drawers with louvered faces, black lacquered cabinet doors with three white painted dovetailed drawers inside, brass accented cabinet hardware...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville 8 Drawer Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Philadelphia, PA
American of Martinsville 8 Drawer Dresser. All original with a gray finish over the Mahogany veneer. Grain is highly figured. Draw...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Wood
Mid-Century Walnut Credenza by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville
By Merton Gershun, American of Martinsville
Located in North Hollywood, CA
Amazing mid-century modern walnut credenza by Merton L. Gershun for American of Martinsville and manufactured in the United States, circa 1960s. This piece showcases the perfect blen...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Walnut
H 25 in W 52 in D 16 in
American of Martinsville Brutalist Spanish Night Stand End Tables, Set of 2
By American of Martinsville
Located in Fort Lauderdale, FL
On offer on this occasion is one of the most stunning, nightstands or end tables you could hope to find. Outstanding design is exhibited throughout. The beautiful set is statement p...
Category
1970s American Spanish Colonial Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
Vintage Mid-Century American of Martinsville walnut Credenza
By American of Martinsville
Located in Sheffield, MA
Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville 2 drawer, 3 door credenza in warm walnut wood cabinet. Original vintage condition. A great entry way ...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Walnut
Antique French, Louis XVI Style Chest of Drawers Commode Buffet Bar
Located in Senonches, Centre-Val de Loire
Antique French Louis XVI style bar buffet topped with a white Carrara marble, fluted legs finished with golden bronze clogs.
One dovetailed drawer, two doors and a practical storage ...
Category
19th Century French Louis XVI Antique American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Carrara Marble
American Of Martinsville 9 Drawer Dresser
By American of Martinsville
Located in Phoenix, AZ
Custom Oak Lattice Front Nine-Drawer Dresser by American of Martinsville
Discover the perfect blend of craftsmanship and mid-century style with this exquisite nine-drawer dresser by...
Category
20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Oak
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 Buffets
Materials
Mahogany
Merton Gershun Mid Century Walnut Bar for American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Cincinnati, OH
A rare Mid Century walnut dry bar with pull down front door with light up drink area and storage for glasses . When down the door has a white laminate backing making a bar surface fo...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
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 Buffets
Materials
Brass
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Modern Credenza by Merton Gershun
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished
With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativity for vintage design...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
Midcentury Chest in Hardwood & Chrome by Forma Moveis, 1965 Brazil, Sealed
By Forma Brazil
Located in New York, NY
Available today, this Mid-Century Modern Chest in Hardwood, designed by Knoll International and produced by Forma Moveis in Brazil in the 1960s is a shows...
Category
Mid-20th Century Brazilian Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Chrome, Metal
H 29.1 in W 37.4 in D 20.5 in
Previously Available Items
Bamboo Style Secretary Desk
By American of Martinsville
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Midcentury cabinet with secretary desk in a bamboo style. Made by American of Martinsville, featuring glass front doors and a hidden desk area.
Category
Mid-20th Century Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Wood
Art Deco American of Martinsville Burlwood Serving Cabinet
By American of Martinsville
Located in Chicago, IL
Art Deco American of Martinsville Burlwood serving cabinet
Mirrored top olive wood burl bar serving cabinet from American of Marti...
Category
1970s American Art Deco Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
1960's Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Accord Credenza/Buffet
By American of Martinsville
Located in Chicago, IL
Measures: 50” x 18.5” x 31”H
American of Martinsville Accord credenza in walnut with three drawers one one cane-front door. Warm wal...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Walnut
American of Martinsville Mid Century Walnut and Brass China Cabinet and Hutch
By American of Martinsville
Located in Countryside, IL
American of Martinsville mid century walnut and brass China cabinet and hutch
The buffet measures: 60 wide x 16 deep x 25 inches high
The h...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
H 16 in W 60 in L 16 in
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville MCM Walnut and Brass Buffet Hutch
By American of Martinsville, Merton Gershun
Located in Countryside, IL
Merton Gershun for American of Martinsville mid century walnut and brass buffet with hutch
The buffet and hutch measure: 48 wide x 15.75 deep x 60.25 inches high
All pieces of ...
Category
1970s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
H 60.25 in W 48 in L 60.25 in
Large 12 Drawer Martinsville Walnut Credenza with Aluminum Accents, 1960s
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Gorgeous Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville credenza with aluminum accents, x's through top, stylized staggered pulls, and canned doors, USA, 1960s, featuring 4 drawers, lef...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Aluminum
Classic Modernist Walnut and Brass Server or Credenza, American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in Buffalo, NY
Classic Modernist walnut and brass server or credenza, American of Martinsville designed by Merton Gershun for his Dania collection. Credenza features wal...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
H 30 in W 60 in L 30 in
Mid-Century Two-Tier Walnut Buffet or Credenza
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pasadena, CA
This two-tier buffet is composed of a top shelving unit and a bottom four doors cabinet. The doors handles and legs detailing are made of brass. The bottom piece has four doors - two...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
American of Martinsville Walnut Credenza with Brass Hardware
By American of Martinsville
Located in Pasadena, CA
This credenza features 5 drawers and 2 doors connected with piano hinges on each side. Beautiful decorative brass Hardware.
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
Rare American of Martinsville Eight Drawer Chest, Choice of Lacquer Finish
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
A beautiful and unusual eight ( 8 ) drawer example from a rare case series by American of Martinsville, circa 1950. Stout mahogany case construction with Fabulous " wormhole " detai...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Mahogany
H 37.5 in W 54 in D 20.5 in
Stately MidCentury 9-Drawer Walnut Chest by American of Martinsville
By American of Martinsville
Located in New York, NY
Handsome 9-drawer chest in walnut by American of Martinsville. Exceptional case piece that would work well with nearly any style of interior design. Well crafted and substantial. In ...
Category
1960s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Walnut
Beautiful Six-Drawer Chest by American of Martinsville in Cream Lacquer
By American of Martinsville
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Stunning six ( 6 ) drawer chest by American of Martinsville, circa 1950. The A of M designers were always cognizant of great furniture being produced by rival manufacturers. This...
Category
1950s American Mid-Century Modern Vintage American of Martinsville Buffets
Materials
Brass
American Of Martinsville buffets for sale on 1stDibs.
American of Martinsville buffets 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 buffets, although beige editions of this piece are particularly popular. Many of the original buffets by American of Martinsville were created in the mid-century modern style in united states during the 20th century. If you’re looking for additional options, many customers also consider buffets by Dunbar, John Widdicomb, and Tommi Parzinger. Prices for American of Martinsville buffets can differ depending upon size, time period and other attributes — on 1stDibs, these items begin at $2,500 and can go as high as $39,500, while a piece like these, on average, fetch $5,950.
Creators Similar to American of Martinsville
Questions About American of Martinsville Buffets
- 1stDibs ExpertSeptember 23, 2024To identify American of Martinsville furniture, first look for the brand stamp, often found inside of a drawer, on the bottom of the piece or under a seat. The mark typically features the full brand name; some pieces also display an eagle logo. Another identifying characteristic of wood pieces made by the company are brass "X" inlays, often found on tabletops and the front of cabinet doors. Many mid-century American of Martinsville case goods also feature slatted or louvered doors. If you need help with the identification process, use the services of a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer. Shop a variety of American of Martinsville furniture on 1stDibs.
- 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 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 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 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 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.
- 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 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.
- 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.
- Is sofa American or British?1 Answer1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024Sofa is both American and British. In the UK, sofa is the most commonly used term for an upholstered piece of furniture designed to seat two people or more. Americans use the word sofa as well. However, couch is the more popular name for sofas in the U.S. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique, vintage and contemporary sofas.
- 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 ExpertNovember 22, 2024Yes, there is an American watch movement. In fact, there are multiple movements made in the USA. One is the Ameriquartz movement, a battery-driven quartz movement manufactured by Arizona-based maker Fine Timepiece Solutions for VAER watches. Another is the Caliber 1003 mechanical wind movement, created by Weis and produced in Nashville, Tennessee. Find a diverse assortment of watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertJanuary 27, 2025There was actually more than one famous American clockmaker. Many people refer to Eli Terry as the “father of mass-produced clocks in the U.S.,” as he introduced the concept of interchangeable parts that made large-scale production possible. Another well-known name in the history of American clock-making is Seth Thomas, who founded the Seth Thomas Clock Company in 1813. Brothers Aaron and Simon Willard are also important figures in the field, having developed banjo clocks and tall case clocks, respectively. Shop a variety of antique and vintage clocks 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 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 ExpertNovember 22, 2024The oldest American watch brand that is still in operation is Waltham. When he founded the company in 1850, Aaron Lufkin Dennison revolutionized the industry by introducing the concept of replaceable watch components. This innovation allowed wristwatches and pocket watches to be produced in a fraction of the time it traditionally took to handcraft a watch with unique components. Find a selection of Waltham watches on 1stDibs.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024To identify early American furniture, you can evaluate your piece on your own or seek the opinion of a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer. Although many pieces from the Colonial era are unmarked, double-checking your furniture for signatures, stamps and labels is still a good first step. Using trusted online resources, you can research any markings to determine if the maker was active in America during the 16th and early 17th centuries. When identifying unmarked furniture, it's generally necessary to consider the style and details of the piece. Due to its handcrafted origins, early American furniture tends to have visible tool marks and irregularities in its carvings. Early American furnishings tended to be simple in style but often had one or two refined details, such as cabriole legs. Looking at images of authentic early American furniture can be helpful when making an identification. On 1stDibs, find a collection of 18th-century American furniture.
- 1stDibs ExpertNovember 13, 2024To identify Native American beadwork, first consider the materials. Indigenous American artisans often produce beads out of glass and natural materials, such as shells, bone and wood, and use metal and plastic in their pieces less frequently. Older pieces will usually be held together by sinew, while newer examples will typically feature thread. Regardless of age, Native American beadwork will typically be expertly crafted, so pieces usually have tight, even stitching with no visible gaps. Familiarizing yourself with stitching techniques used by various tribes can also be helpful. You can find images of authentic beadwork on trusted online resources to refer to as you complete the identification process. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your piece. On 1stDibs, shop a wide variety of textiles and garments that feature Native American beadwork.
Recently Viewed
View AllMore American of Martinsville Furniture
American of Martinsville Dressers
American of Martinsville Credenzas
American of Martinsville Commodes and Chests of Drawers
American of Martinsville Cabinets
American of Martinsville Sideboards
American of Martinsville Desks
American of Martinsville Dry Bars
American of Martinsville Wardrobes and Armoires
American of Martinsville Tables
American of Martinsville Seating
American of Martinsville Mirrors
American of Martinsville Asian Art and Furniture