Q: What is the history of Art Deco?

The history of Art Deco begins in the early 20th century.Art Deco emerged as a global design style around the start of World War I, during the last years of Art Nouveau's popularity. The style conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. Its hallmarks include the use of geometric designs influenced by Cubism. Major discoveries of Egyptian tombs during the era also influenced the movement.The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris in 1925. After World War II, tastes shifted toward more functional, less ornate modernism, but today, the Art Deco style is still favored for its luxurious sophistication. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage Art Deco furniture.

Question 1

How do I identify Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Deco, look for the characteristics of the period. Furniture produced at the time is generally lacquered metal with a mirror-like glossy finish. Wooden items should be an exotic wood. Most items feature symmetrical designs, and geometric forms were popular motifs during the period. In addition, Art Deco often shows the influence of Hellenistic, Egyptian and Asian designs. Shop a variety of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is an Art Deco lamp?

Accepted Answer

An Art Deco lamp is any lamp that’s made in the styles of the Art Deco movement, which was dominant in the 1920s and 1930s. On 1stDibs, you’ll find a collection of Art Deco lamps from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 3

What is art deco ring?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco rings were made during the early 20th century. Named for a design movement that originated at a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925, Art Deco rings are generally quite geometric, symmetrical and incorporate a variety of gemstones — especially sapphires and emeralds. Find a wide variety of Art Deco rings for sale on 1stDibs.

Question 4

When did Art Deco originate?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco period originated in France. Its name comes from the title of a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925, credited with introducing the style to the world. It was informed by ancient Egypt, Cubism, Futurism, Louis XVI, De Stijl, modernism and the Vienna Secession and went on to influence the Streamline Moderne and mid-century modern movements. Shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture, decorative objects and jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is the history of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The history of Art Deco begins in the early 20th century.

Art Deco emerged as a global design style around the start of World War I, during the last years of Art Nouveau's popularity. The style conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. Its hallmarks include the use of geometric designs influenced by Cubism. Major discoveries of Egyptian tombs during the era also influenced the movement.

The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition, the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes, held in Paris in 1925. After World War II, tastes shifted toward more functional, less ornate modernism, but today, the Art Deco style is still favored for its luxurious sophistication. On 1stDibs, shop a large selection of vintage Art Deco furniture.

Question 6

What defines Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

A few things define Art Deco. Date is one factor, as the style emerged in the 1920s and remained popular during the 1930s. Art Deco design usually includes bold geometric lines and forms or intricate repeating floral motifs. Designers working in this style tended to use expensive materials, such as shagreen or marble, as well as exotic woods like mahogany, ebony and zebra wood. Furniture often featured metal accents, mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is art deco jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco jewelry was popular during the design movement of the 1920s and 30s. Art Deco jewelry is typically characterized by geometric patterns and gemstones of contrasting colors.

Question 8

What is an art deco watch?

Accepted Answer

An art deco watch is defined by its geometric case, which is either circular or rectangular. The watch style was highly popular between 1920 and 1950, and is still sought after today. You’ll find a collection of art deco watches from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs

Question 9

What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The main difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco is that the former is detailed and ornate, and the latter is sharp and geometrical. When the movement started at the end of the 19th century, Art Nouveau was heavily influenced by nature and the curved lines of flowers. Art Deco, which became popular in the beginning of the 20th century, was inspired by the geometric abstraction of cubism.

Question 10

What are art deco lamps made of?

Accepted Answer

Art deco lamps come in a variety of shapes, sizes and styles. Vintage art deco-style lamps were made of natural materials such as metal, glass and pottery. You’ll find a variety of art deco lamps from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 11

Is Toulouse-Lautrec Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The work of French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec falls into the Art Nouveau style, which was prevalent approximately during the period of 1890-1910. Following the Art Nouveau period was the Art Deco era, which is usually defined as the era between 1920 and 1930. Toulouse-Lautrec died in 1901 putting his art in the era of Art Nouveau, but certain aspects of it definitely hint at the coming Art Deco style considering the definite overlap of the two movements. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 12

How was Art Deco furniture made?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco furniture was largely made by hand. Crafters often employed exotic hardwood like zebra wood, rosewood and Macassar ebony. Many pieces had a polished Japanese lacquer finish, which gave a high-gloss shine to the wood. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Art Deco furniture.

Question 13

What are the main features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The main features of Art Deco are geometry-influenced shapes, bright color schemes and bold patterns. Art Deco architecture and design are both heavily influenced by the Cubism movement, which relied on the use of non-traditional angles and shapes.

Question 14

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco features bold geometric designs, clean lines and vibrant colors.

Question 15

How do I know if my ring is Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

To know if a ring is Art Deco, examine its style. The Art Deco period, encompassing the 1920s and ’30s, ushered in a very distinct look in the design of jewelry. Makers often incorporated geometric motifs in jewelry designs. Materials may also provide a clue about the era of the piece. Platinum, rubies, sapphires and emeralds were some of the most common precious metals and gemstones used at the time. Keep in mind that there are many convincing reproductions of Art Deco rings and other high-quality pieces inspired by originals. As a result, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or expert within the field of antique jewelry design to evaluate the ring. Shop a selection of Art Deco rings on 1stDibs.

Question 16

What is Art Deco style furniture?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco style furniture appeared right before the start of World War I and is defined by sharp lines, vibrant colors and bold patterns. Heavily influenced by geometry, Art Deco furniture was born out of the Cubism movement.

Question 17

How do I identify Art Deco furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Deco furniture, first look for maker's markings in inconspicuous areas. Once you've found them, use trusted online resources to research the manufacturer and determine whether they were active during the Art Deco era, which spanned from the 1920s through the 1930s. You can also look for classic characteristics of Art Deco furniture, such as bold geometric lines and forms, intricate floral motifs, metal accents, mirrored finishes and fine materials such as shagreen, marble, mahogany wood, zebra wood, ebony, exotic animal hides, onyx and mother-of-pearl. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer can also assist you with making identifications. Shop a collection of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What are Art Deco engagement rings?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco engagement rings are accessories that were produced during the 1920s and '30s and are characterized by details associated with the Art Deco style. They're often very colorful and feature bold geometric lines as well as gemstones cut in nontraditional ways. While the style got its name from an arts exhibition in Paris in 1925, Art Deco was inspired by Cubism and a shift from Art Nouveau's floral aesthetic. The modern look of Art Deco engagement rings reflects an evolution in fashion, visual art and more, as well as the sweeping societal changes taking hold at the time. On 1stDibs, shop a range of vintage Art Deco engagement rings.

Question 19

Is Art Deco jewelry valuable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some Art Deco jewelry is valuable. Jewelry from the 1920s and ’30s has remained consistently popular. It experienced a major revival in the 1960s, and even today, jewelry makers continue to be inspired by the period. As a result, demand for Art Deco jewelry is typically high, but the actual value of a piece depends on its style, maker, age and condition. A certified appraiser or experienced antiques dealer can help you determine how much your jewelry is worth. Explore a large selection of Art Deco jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 20

Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The answer to whether Eileen Gray's designs were Art Deco depends on which piece you're considering. Gray was ever-evolving as a designer. By the early 1920s, she was creating geometric works that embodied the essence of Art Deco and the nascent modernist design movement. Some pieces, like her Bricks screen, employ the planar forms favored by Gerrit Rietveld and other De Stijl architects of the Netherlands. Others feature the tubular chrome framing used by Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who are associated with the mid-century modern design style. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Eileen Gray furniture.

Art Deco Clamshell

Early 20th Century Art Deco Dry Bars

1920's Art Deco Bar Style of Dagobert Peche

Vintage 1960s Art Deco Scholar's Objects

Art Deco Silver Plated Clam Shell Dish/Catch All

Vintage 1930s Czech Art Deco More Lighting

Pair of Ribbed Clamshell-Shaped Mercury Glass Shades

Vintage 1930s American Patio and Garden Furniture

Art Deco Cantilevered Steel Clam Shell Patio Lounge Chair

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Books

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald, First Edition, First Issue, 1925

Vintage 1920s American Modern Books

A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway, First Trade Edition, in Dust Jacket

21st Century and Contemporary Books

Impossible Collection of Jewelry

People Also Browsed

21st Century and Contemporary British Organic Modern Wall Lights and Sco...

Tulip Contemporary Wall Sconce, Wall Light in White Plaster, Hannah Woodhouse

21st Century and Contemporary Brazilian Modern Dining Room Chairs

Giraffe dining Chair in Solid Brazilian Wood by Juliana Vasconcellos

21st Century and Contemporary Swedish Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

'Plissé White Edition' Pleated Textile Table Lamp by Folkform for Örsjö

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

JENNY Large Wall Light or Sconce in Enamel & Brass by Blueprint Lighting

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Sofas

1950's Style Curved Velvet Sofa in Custom Velvet Colors

2010s French Modern Chairs

Mawu Sculpted Oak Chair by Laura Gonzalez

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Organic Modern Chandeliers and Pen...

Trapezi Five Lights Neutral Shades Contemporary Pendant/Chandelier Brass, Glass

Vintage 1970s Italian Post-Modern Dry Bars

Italian Post-Modern Bar Cabinet with Stools in Black Lacquered Wood

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Organic Modern Side Tables

Contemporary Minimal Round Coffee Side Table in Travertine Stone Natural Pores

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Organic Modern Center Tables

Contemporary Minimal Round Coffee Center Table in Travertine Stone Natural Pores

21st Century and Contemporary Colombian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers a...

Leather Pendant Light in Cobalt, Capa, Talabartero Collection Saddle Lamp

Late 20th Century Italian Books

Bob Dylan: A Year and a Day by Daniel Kramer

2010s Italian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Oval Brass and Parchment Chandelier by Diego Mardegan for Glustin Luminaires

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Books

Mark Ryden Pinxit

20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Table Lamps

Bitossi Cerulean Blue Glazed Ceramic Lamps

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Blue Verner Panton Flowerpot Enameled Pendant Lamp, Louis Poulsen, Denmark, 1969

Recent Sales

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Table Lamps

Stunning French Art Deco Clamshell Table Lamp

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Sofa Chair Set Maurizio Tempestini Salterini Clamshell Patio Garden Furniture

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Dry Bars

Art Deco Bar Cabinet with Walnut Veneer

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Chrome Folding Tray with Yellow Bakelite Handle by Manning-Bowman

Vintage 1970s North American Art Deco Swivel Chairs

1970s Milo Baughman Scalloped Chrome Swivel Lounge Chair

20th Century American Rococo Sheffield and Silverplate

Rococo Silver Plated Three Part Clam Shell Server Condiment Tray by Sheridan

Vintage 1940s Unknown Art Deco Collectible Jewelry

Art Deco Clamshell Evening Bag Purse Gold Chain Purple Velvet Lining, 1940s

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Opaque Art Deco Clamshell Wall Lamp with Brass Fittings

Vintage 1930s American Chandeliers and Pendants

French Deco Frosted Glass Clamshell Chandelier Pendant Light

Late 20th Century American Art Deco Chaise Longues

Scalloped Channel Back Clamshell Form Chaise Lounge

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Carriage Clocks and Travel Clocks

Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Art Deco 1930s 8 Day Desk and Travel Clock

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Vanities

Adorable Mirrored Deco Vanity

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Club Chairs

Orange Clamshell Club Chair from Sweden, 1930s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Large French Mercury Clamshell Sconces or Reading Lamps

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Pair of Maurizio Tempestini Clamshell Chairs for Salterini

More Ways To Browse