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

What was Art Deco influenced by?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco was influenced by a number of things. The discovery of ancient tombs around the turn of the century led to a renewed interest in Egyptian furniture and architecture that inspired Art Deco designers. Art Deco was also informed by Cubism, Futurism, Louis XVI style, De Stijl, modernism and the Vienna Secession. Shop a large collection of Art Deco furniture, decorative objects and jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Art Deco Heater

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Desk Sets

Machine Age / Art Deco Electric Fan / Heater by ORLI.

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Books

Big Art Deco Original Advertising Promotional Poster Heater/Fire, 1930s

20th Century English Art Deco Fireplaces and Mantels

ORIGINAL RESTORED ART DECO ZOORAY HiGHLAND TERRIER SCOTTIE DOG ELECTRIC HEATER

Vintage 1930s British Art Deco Serving Pieces

Silver Plated Art Deco Serving Trolley

Vintage 1920s French Posters

Original Antique Advertising Poster Mirus Poele A Bois Wood Stove Heater France

Late 20th Century Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Art Deco Style Geometric Motif Iron Fire Screen

Mid-20th Century European Art Deco Fireplaces and Mantels

1930s Art Deco Electric Fireplace with Beveled Two Colored Overmantel Mirror

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Saint Gobain France Art Deco Coffee Side Table with Glass-Top and Aviation Decor

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Fireplaces and Mantels

Glass Radiator by Rene-Andre Coulon for Saint-Goban, France, 1937

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Table Lamps

Vintage 1930s Aluminum Industrial Machine Age Sailboat Lamp by Bunting Electric

Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XVI Tea Sets

Boin-Taburet: 6pc. Antique French 950 Sterling Silver Tea Set - Like New!

People Also Browsed

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Bedroom Sets

Afra & Tobia Scarpa for Molteni ‘Morna’ Bed with Nightstands

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Patio and Garden Furniture

French Art Deco Wrought-Iron Set, circa 1930s

Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy

Rare Victorian Firescreen with Taxidermy Hummingbirds by Henry Ward

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and...

Murano Hand Blown Chartreuse Green Glass Chandelier, in stock

20th Century American Books

Historic Homes of Charleston, South Carolina

Antique 17th Century Italian Baroque Bookcases

17th Century Italian Baroque Lacquered Spruce Religious Furniture 1600

Antique Late 19th Century French Louis XV Musical Instruments

Steinway & Sons Concert Grand Piano

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Doors and Gates

French Art Deco Wrought Iron Grilles

1980s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Robin MorrisNEW DECO Signed Lithograph Modern Art Deco Portrait, Black Stripe Hair, Red Lips, 1985

Vintage 1980s American Post-Modern Prints

Pair of Patrick Nagel Vintage 1980s Framed Female Portrait Prints

20th Century Japanese Showa Paintings and Screens

Japanese Showa Four Panel Table Screen Noble Procession

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Fireplaces and Mantels

Vintage Mid Century Modern Freestanding Electric Cone Fireplace in Orange

Early 20th Century American Industrial Chandeliers and Pendants

Rare Levelle 'Birdwing' Ornate Retractable Blade Fan

2010s Italian Modern Aviation Objects

Supermarine Spitfire Airplane Decorative Scale Model, Big Size, Highly Detailed

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Dry Bars

Art Deco Walnut Cocktail Cabinet, Dry Bar, English, circa 1930

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Umbrella Stands

French Art Deco Wrought Iron Hall Tree

Recent Sales

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Historical Memorabilia

1930s Wesix Vintage Aluminium Electric Heater

Vintage 1930s Great Britain (UK) Art Deco Scientific Instruments

British Machine Age Sailboat Radiant Heater by Bunting Electric, circa 1930s

Vintage 1930s British Art Deco Floor Lamps

Iconic English Art Deco Bunting Figural Yacht Floor Lamp Conversion.

Vintage 1930s More Desk Accessories

1930s Art Deco HMV Floor Heater

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Desk Sets

1940s Arvin Art Deco Industrial Electric Heater Fan USA

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Historical Memorabilia

1920s Antique Copper Universal Electric Heater Art Deco Landers Frary Clark

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Fireplaces and Mantels

French Art Deco Lily Cast Iron Blue Porcelain Heater Stove Deville Charleville

Vintage 1930s Danish Art Deco Tea Sets

Kähler, Denmark, Glazed Stoneware Teapot with Heater for Tea Lights

Mid-20th Century European Art Deco More Furniture and Collectibles

Art Deco Towel Rack, Towel Warmer

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Mounted Objects

Rare Art Deco Glass Heater by Rene-Andre Coulon for Saint-Gobain, 1937

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Desk Sets

Art Deco Electric Table Fan by Gilbert Company

Vintage 1960s English Art Deco More Dining and Entertaining

Robin Morris
NEW DECO Signed Lithograph Modern Art Deco Portrait, Black Stripe Hair, Red Lips, 1985