Adrian Pearsall designed some of the most exuberant and expressive American chairs, sofas and other furniture of the 1950s and ’60s. For verve and vivacity of form, he surpasses even Vladimir Kagan — whose work is the emblem of swinging, sexy mid-20th century modernism. Pearsall gave his imagination free rein, and his flamboyant, eye-catching styles are icons of what has become known as “Atomic Age” design.
Pearsall studied architectural engineering at the University of Illinois before opening his Pennsylvania furniture company, Craft Associates, in 1952, and that training shows in many designs.
A Pearsall trademark, for example, is a lounge chair with an exceptionally tall, trapezoidal back, which give the pieces a skyscraper-like silhouette. Pearsall also had a talent for so-called Gondola sofas — long, low-slung pieces with upswept ends. Many of Pearsall’s sofas and chairs are supported not by legs, but on gently arced walnut skids.
Pearsall had a gift for tables, too, in particular glass-topped side tables and coffee tables with frames that have the look of an Alexander Calder stabile. As you will see from the offerings on 1stDibs, Pearsall had flair, and his work adds an attention-getting, sculptural exclamation point to any décor.
Find vintage Adrian Pearsall sofas, armchairs, coffee tables and other furniture for sale on 1stDibs.
$6,500
H 27 in W 100 in D 34 in
Mid Century Fully Restored Adrian Pearsall Style Gondola Sofa c.1960's
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Lutz, FL
Mid Century Modern Gondola Sofa in the Style of Adrian Pearsall c.1960’s. Fully restored top to bottom, all new foam, and upholstered in quality dark teal chenille fabric. Walnut tri...
Chenille, Walnut
Long Mid Century Modern Sofa, 1969, USA
Located in Miami, FL
Original Mid Century Modern fabric long sofa with reversible pillows.
Fabric, Wood
Mid-Century Modern Italian Style Sofa
Located in Brooklyn, NY
This four seat midcentury sofa features comfortable two cushion design complete with unique vintage fabric. Slender Italian style legs giv...
Fabric
$8,750
H 25.5 in W 101.5 in D 33 in
Mid-Century Modern Sofa Adrian Pearsall Style Gondola Sofa new upholstery
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Baltimore, MD
Mid-century modern stunning, beautiful, high-quality long gondola walnut framed sofa Adrian Pearsall style. In new upholstery fabric and high-density foam. An exceptional sofa both f...
Walnut, Fabric, Foam
Mid Century Modern Josef Otmar Gondola Sofa
By Otmar, Adrian Pearsall
Located in Raleigh, NC
Exceptional mid-century modern gondola sofa by celebrated designer Josef Otmar, featuring his signature flowing lines and masterful woodworking. This stunning piece showcases the sc...
Upholstery, Walnut
$10,000
H 28 in W 127 in D 35 in
Mid-Century Modern Platform Sofa by Adrian Pearsall for Craft Associates.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Featuring a sculptural walnut frame with a finished back, teal upholstered seat cushions in velour, and integrated marble side table. A striking example of Pearsall’s signature organ...
Marble
Mid-Century Modern Sofa in the Manner of Adrian Pearsall, Circa 1950
By Adrian Pearsall
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A Mid-Century Modern sofa in the manner of Adrian Pearsall. Walnut with slate inlay end tables, Circa 1950s.
Wood
1950s Italian Mid Century Corner Sofa
Located in Berkeley, CA
Origin: Italy Designer: Unknown Manufacturer: Unknown Era: 1950s Materials: Wool, Beech Measurements: 78.75″ wide x 25.5″ deep x 31.5″ tall Condition: In good original condition wit...
Wool, Beech
Ernst Schwadron Sofa
By Ernst Schwadron
Located in Hanover, MA
Three seat sofa designed by Austrian emigre Ernst Schwadron and retailed through Rena Rosenthal inc. New York in the 1940's. This design was part of his early collection for Knoll w...
Upholstery, Mahogany
French Designer, Sofa, Wood, Fabric, France, 1950s
Located in High Point, NC
A green fabric, wood and yellow rubber sofa likely designed and produced in France, c. 1950s. In very good vintage condition, with light wear consistent with age and use. Light surf...
Wood, Fabric
