German furniture designer Tommi Parzinger brought high-style modernism to the forefront. Taking a vivid, stylized approach to mid-century furniture, many of his works feature boldly colored lacquers and offbeat finishes that make his pieces stand out among the works of his peers. Despite his uniquely progressive vision, Parzinger showed equal expertise in producing fine, traditional furnishings.
Born in Munich, Parzinger moved to New York City in 1932. He began his practice in the United States by designing for the Manhattan style trailblazer Rena Rosenthal. In 1939, he established his first company, which split its focus between handcrafted silver household items — such as tea sets and barware — and home furnishings, like dining tables and cabinets. In his first year in business, Parzinger exhibited several pieces of furniture at the 1939 New York World’s Fair.
A master craftsman, Parzinger sought out the most exceptional materials for his furniture, employing the finest woods — like mahogany and walnut — as well as including custom brass hardware and pewter inlays.
His silver works presented an elevated level of style and grace. A November 1939 article in LIFE magazine described Parzinger as “the most creative original designer of silverware in the United States.”
While he was still running his own business — creating 12 to 30 new designs each year — Charak Furniture Company appointed Parzinger as its head of modern furniture design. He modernized Charak’s design approach from a more traditional form to a mid-century modern style.
In the mid-1960s, Parzinger stopped designing furniture, turning his company over to his friend Donald Cameron. He shifted his attention to paintings, which he created until his death in 1981.
On 1stDibs, find a broad selection of vintage Tommi Panzinger tables, lighting, storage pieces and more.
Danish Modern Silver Plate Cream and Sugar Set by Eleanor Claire
Located in San Diego, CA
Striking Danish modern silver plate cream and sugar set by Eleanor Claire, circa 1960s. The highly crafted two-piece set is in the form of a watering ca...
Silver Plate
Danish Modern Silver Plated Coffee Pot Designed by Hans Bunde for Cohr 1950's
By Hans Bunde
Located in San Diego, CA
Elegant silver plated coffee pot designed by Hans Bunde for Cohr Denmark , circa 1950's nice patinated finish very clean condition.
Silver Plate
Post-Modern Stainless Steel Cream and Sugar Set by Michael Graves for Alessi
By Michael Graves (b.1934), Alessi
Located in San Diego, CA
A classic post-modern stainless steel cream and sugar set designed by Michael Graves for Alessi, circa the 1980s. The set is in good vintage condition and measures 5"W x 4.5"D x 3"H...
Stainless Steel
Espresso Coffee Maker Postmodern Design by Richard Sapper for Alessi 6 Cup
By Alessi, Richard Sapper
Located in San Diego, CA
Alessi 9090 espresso coffee maker by Richard Sapper, an early edition, excellent finish. The form is the first espresso coffee maker in Alessi’s history and was the first of several ...
Metal
Minimalist Mexican Sterling Silver Cream and Sugar Set by Anfer
Located in San Diego, CA
Striking minimalist Mexican sterling silver cream and sugar set by Anfer, circa 1960s. The highly crafted two-piece set is in very good vintage condition and measures 5.5"W x 3.5"D x...
Sterling Silver
Great Postmodern Set 4 Cups & Creamer by Studio Nova Japan Memphis Era
By Studio Nova By Sommerhuber
Located in San Diego, CA
Beautiful and rare set 4 cups and a creamer by Studio Nova Japan part of the Black Expressions collection excellent condition beautiful design.
Porcelain
Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths Nickel-Plated Coffee or Tea Set
By Dorlyn Silversmiths, Tommi Parzinger
Located in St. Louis, MO
A coffee or tea serving set designed by Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths. This set is made of heavy brass, and has been newly plated in a nickel finish. It consists of a pitch...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths Tea Service/Chaffing Set, 1960
By Dorlyn Silversmiths, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Chicago, IL
Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths Tea Service/Chaffing Set, 1960. Beautiful brass patina all original. Measurements: Tea pot 14.75" tall on burner, total height of tea pot 11....
Brass
Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths Brass Coffee & Tea Service
By Dorlyn Silversmiths, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Hanover, MA
Four piece coffee/tea service in solid brass designed by Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths circa 1950, distributed by Vincent Lippe Co. This is the earliest version with the distinctively ornate thistle finials on the fitted lids. Set includes large and small lidded carafes, lidded sugar container and 12" diameter round tray. All marked: Made by Dorlyn Silversmiths and a conjoined "RP" in which the "R" is reversed. The 'R' here in the mark probably refers to Otto Rasmussen...
Brass
Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn Silversmiths Brass Coffee / Tea Set
By Dorlyn Silversmiths, Tommi Parzinger
Located in Saint Louis, MO
Beautiful vintage Tommi Parzinger coffee / tea set in its original brass finish circa 1950s. The set includes a large coffee pot with curved wood handle, stand with etched "X" details, burner with original wick to keep the pot warm...
Brass
Mexican Modernism Coffee Set in Solid Brass & Glass by Salvador Teran, Signed
By Salvador Teran, Los Castillo
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A striking and highly collectible mid-century modern coffee service by Salvador Terán, one of the most innovative figures of Mexican Modernism and Mexican silversmithing design. This...
Brass
3 Piece Brass Coffee Service by Tommi Parzinger for Dorlyn
By Tommi Parzinger, Dorlyn Silversmiths
Located in Danville, CA
Brass Coffee Service by Tommi Parziger for Dorlyn Brass. The set consists of a tall lidded carafe, creamer, and lidded sugar bowl. The set has been professionally polished and lacq...
Brass
