The Swinging Sixties

 

Encompassing art and design, objects, ceramics, pictures, as well as ephemera, toys, posters and collectables from a period that used new techniques, new styles and new materials. 

This period saw the race for space and the moon and saw explorers reach new depths and heights to conquer the last parts of our unexplored planet. 

Conformity was thrown out - the new generation wanted something different. Music developed quicker in this period than ever before which rolled out Rock ‘n’ Roll to Punk. Fashion saw a shift from the clean lines to the crazy psychedelic colours of the 1960s’ counter-culture.  From Buddy Holly to the Beatles, Jimi Hendrix to Ziggy Stardust, Teddy boys to Glam Rock. 

Technological advances helped new architectural styles and buildings, develop in a way never thought possible from the Skylon, in the Festival of Britain to the Sydney Opera House in Australia. The first computers commercially successful were developed and the world saw the awakening of a network technology that would ultimately emerge as the world wide web.

Brionvega, Sony, Hitachi and Braun all became household names through their electrical products that became widely available to millions. From rationing to the new techniques in farming practises the world saw a revolution in how the world was fed, how food was stored and how food was eaten. Families sat eating ‘Fast Food’ and ‘TV dinners’ while watching the greatest nation on earth lose a war in Vietnam. The great TV shows such as Star Trek, Monty Python and Thunderbirds emerged as favourites and James Bond, Hitchcock’s Psycho and Kubrick’s 2001 Space Odyssey defined a new style in film. New stars were born and were followed by the ‘Beat Generation’ such as James Dean and Marlon Brando. 

Plastic became the material of choice in furniture, sculpture and fashion. Studio pottery became more sculptural. And metal was cast and moulded into unbelievable forms. 

Be sure not to miss out on the launch of a new catalogue by signing up for alerts here and follow the department on Instagram @swordersdesign

Results & Highlights

Our specialists

Our specialists hold regular valuation days. Please contact us for more information, or complete the online form to enquire about the valuation of your items. 

John Black

John Black ASFAV
Director

T: 01279 817778
E: johnblack@sworder.co.uk

Request a Valuation 

Want to know how much your 1960s items may be worth? Fill out our easy-to-use form and a member of the team will be in touch with free advice shortly.

Get a Valuation

 


 

Design Newsletter

Sign up to receive the latest news straight to your inbox.

 


 

Lot Alerts

Don't miss out on the things you love! Sign up for our free Lot Alert service and we'll send you a reminder when an item you want is coming up.

 

News & Articles

George Fejér | An Unsung Hero of Everyday Objects

George Fejér (1912-1996) had a view on how to improve the design of more or less everything in the home, from the kitchen sink to the bedroom cupboard. Discover the story behind Fejér's impactful career, ahead of furniture designed by George appearing in our 28 January Design auction.

9 December 2024

Fascinating Figures | Charles Vyse and Ceramics

English studio potter Charles Vyse has an exciting and vibrant selection of ceramic works on offer in Sworders 28 January Design sale. Delve into the history of the craftmanship behind these pieces and the career that led to such captivating creations.

4 December 2024

 

Sworders’ Design Department | Exceptional Objects and Incredible Sales

Following their impressive 2024 results, Sworders’ Design department aims to continue offering the best quality decorative arts and furniture. Interested in selling in 2025? Contact the department for a no-obligation valuation and advice on selling with Sworders.

4 November 2024