Arthur Umanoff (1923-1985) was an American furniture and decorative arts designer who played a significant role in shaping the mid-century modern design movement. Born in New York City, Umanoff's innovative designs and creative use of materials garnered him recognition and acclaim during his career.

Umanoff attended the Pratt Institute, where he studied industrial design. After completing his education, he began working as a freelance designer, collaborating with various renowned furniture manufacturers. His early designs showcased his ability to blend functionality with aesthetics, incorporating clean lines and organic forms.

In the 1950s, Umanoff gained popularity for his wrought iron furniture designs. His iconic Slat Bench, featuring a slatted wood seat and a wrought iron base, became a staple in mid-century modern homes. This design, along with his other wrought iron creations, showcased Umanoff's talent for combining different materials to create visually striking and functional pieces.

Umanoff's work was heavily influenced by the Scandinavian design movement, particularly the Danish modern style. He incorporated elements such as tapered legs, natural wood finishes, and minimalist forms into his designs, contributing to the overall aesthetic of mid-century modern design.

Throughout his career, Umanoff collaborated with various manufacturers, including Raymor, Shaver Howard, and Madison Furniture Industries. His designs were featured in prominent exhibitions, such as the Museum of Modern Art's "Good Design" exhibition in 1951. Umanoff's work also received recognition through prestigious awards, including the American Institute of Decorators' Award of Merit.

In addition to furniture design, Umanoff also explored other areas of design, including ceramics and textiles. His experimentation with different mediums allowed him to create a diverse range of products, further establishing his reputation as a versatile and talented designer.

Arthur Umanoff's designs continue to be highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts of mid-century modern design. His ability to combine functionality, aesthetics, and innovative use of materials has left a lasting impact on the world of furniture and decorative arts. Umanoff's contributions to the mid-century modern design movement have solidified his place as a significant figure in the history of American design.