The popular 20th century art and design retrospective, 20th Century Cincinnati, returns to the city's art deco monument, Museum Center at Union Terminal, next weekend.

The mid-1900s Swan Chair, designed by Arne Jacobsen.

        The show is one of only a handful of collector events devoted to the distinctive trends that became known as “modernism.” The ideal match of the show's focus with its location in the deco train terminal continues to attract some of the nation's foremost dealers and collectors of authentic “modern” design, spanning the years 1900-1975.

        Ted and Nancy Manassah are two of the era's devotees. Their home in Price Hill is furnished with several vintage 20th century pieces. Some are signed by their designer.

        “About 25 years ago,” says Mr. Manassah, “I met a guy from Jackson, Mich., while I was looking to expand my then-current collection of Mission oak furniture. I took one look at his '50s' style furniture and bought a Herman Miller piece. Then another and another — so much that I've loaned several pieces to the University of Cincinnati for an exhibit it had.”

        The Manassahs' love of modernist furniture led to encounters with legendary designers George Nelson and Isamu Noguchi. Photographs of each designer with Mr. Manassah attest to the authenticity of the signatures found on two of the pieces.

Robin Dayıs Polyprop chairs, introduced in 1963.

        “The chair signed by Mr. Nelson looks like a tooth,” Mr. Manassah says. “The glass and walnut table signed by Mr. Noguchi goes well with the five Noguchi lamps I also have. I collect from this era because I just like the way it looks.”

        Several pieces from Nelson will be included in the 2001 show and sale, along with furnishings designed by Charles and Ray Eames, Russel Wright, Harvey Ellis and Gilbert Rohde.

        A special two-hour preview kicks off the show at 9 a.m. next Saturday. A $25 preview admission includes continental breakfast and a weekend pass.

IF YOU GO

What: Seventh annual 20th Century Cincinnati show and sale.     When: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Union Terminal, next Saturday and noon-5 p.m. Sunday.     Where: Museum Center, 1401 Western Ave.     Admission: $5. (Preview 9 a.m. next Saturday $25.)

        The show will feature nearly 60 exhibitors specializing in the furnishings, art and fashions of the art deco years, Arts and Crafts era and Mid-Century Modern period. Offerings will include furniture and lighting for the home or office; art glass, pottery and other decorative objects; prints, paintings and posters; bakelite items, jewelry, vintage clothing and apparel and designer textiles, dinnerware and other housewares. All articles will be for sale and guaranteed for authenticity.

        Special events during the show:

        • Riley Humler of Cincinnati Art Galleries will discuss “Modern Influences at Rookwood Pottery” 1 p.m. next Saturday.

        • Dan Finfrock from the National Railway Historical Society will speak about “Union Station and the Trains that Served Her” 3 p.m. Saturday.

        • Cara Greenberg, author and managing editor of Modernism Magazine, will discuss and sign her books Op to Pop and Mid-Century Modern 2-4 p.m. next Saturday and Sunday
       

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