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.
| Average Sold Price |
| $2,956 |
| Styles |
| Materials |
| Related Creators |
$14,895
H 33.25 in W 62 in D 18.5 in
Expertly Restored - California Modernist "Basket Weave" Dresser by Paul Laszlo
By Brown Saltman, Paul Laszlo
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This rare Paul László “Basket Weave” dresser for Brown Saltman is a remarkable example of California modern design, combining architectural structure wit...
Wood, Oak
$2,095
H 22.5 in W 54 in D 16 in
Newly Refinished - Mid-Century Californian Modern Credenza by Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman
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 designs...
Walnut
$2,850
H 54.25 in W 36 in D 19 in
Newly Refinished - John Keal Walnut Highboy Dresser for Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Condition: Expertly Refinished Expertly Refinished: With over 15 years of experience, our workshop has followed a careful process of restoration, showcasing our passion and creativi...
Walnut
$4,850
H 12 in W 55.5 in D 18 in
Mid Century Modern Expandable Slatted Coffee Table/Bench by John Keal
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Soquel, CA
Beautiful and versatile expandable mid century minimalist walnut slat bench designed by John Keal for Brown Saltman, circa 1960. This California modern piece features an expandable s...
Walnut
California Modern Slatted Bench / Coffee Table by John Keal
By John Keal, Brown Saltman
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Materials: Walnut Wood, New Tweed Fabric, New High-Density Foam ________________________________________ Transforming a piece of Mid-Century Modern furniture is like bringing histo...
Fabric, Foam, Wood, Walnut
Paul Laszlo, Dresser, Oak, USA, 1950s
By Paul Laszlo, Brown Saltman
Located in High Point, NC
An oak dresser designed designed by Paul Laszlo and produced by Brown Saltman, USA, 1950s.
Oak
John Keal for Brown Saltman Two-Tone Slat Bench
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Low profile bench by John Keal for Brown Saltman, circa 1950s, USA. The bench features a mix of mahogany and beech wood that offers texture and depth with varying wood tones. Perfect...
Beech, Mahogany
$2,400Sale Price|20% Off
H 18 in W 27 in D 27 in
Pair of Mid-Century Modern walnut nightstands by John Keal for Brown Saltman
By Brown Saltman, John Keal
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Pair of Mid-Century Modern walnut low nightstands by John Keal for Brown Saltman. Pair of 2 drawer low nightstands or end tables with chrome hanging spade pulls. Walnut with oak draw...
Chrome
| Sold Date | Sold Price | Category | Material | Creation Year | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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| $2,956 |
Average sold price of items in the past 12 months |
| $382-$5,718 |
| Sold price range of items in the past 12 months |