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

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 2

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 3

What was the Art Deco movement?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco movement was a decorative style popular during the 1920s and ’30s. Few design styles are as universally recognized and appreciated as Art Deco. The term alone conjures visions of the Roaring Twenties, Machine Age metropolises, vast ocean liners, sleek typography and Prohibition-era hedonism. The iconic movement made an indelible mark on all fields of design, celebrating society's growing industrialization with refined elegance and stunning craftsmanship. Widely known designers associated with the Art Deco style include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Eileen Gray, Maurice Dufrêne, Paul Follot and Jules Leleu. The term Art Deco derives from the name of a large decorative arts exhibition held in Paris in 1925. On 1stDibs, shop a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects.

Question 4

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 5

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 6

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 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 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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

How can I tell if a ring is Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

There are a few tell-tale signs you can look for to determine if a ring is from the Art Deco period. The first big sign is if it has a geometric element to it, as this was a big element of all Art Deco designs. Colored stones were also very popular in the period and it’s not uncommon to see sapphires or rubies taking center stage, rather than a diamond. During the Art Deco period, yellow gold was not very common, instead, jewelers crafted pieces of white gold or platinum. Shop a collection of authentic Art Deco jewelry from some of the world’s top boutiques on 1stDibs.

Question 13

How do you make an Art Deco bedroom?

Accepted Answer

The simplest way to make an Art Deco bedroom is to purchase authentic furniture and decorative accents from the 1920s and ‘30s. Top designers from the period include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Eileen Gray, Maurice Dufrêne and Jules Leleu. Pair authentic Art Deco pieces with a bedding set in a colorful, intricate floral print, or dress up the walls with wallpaper in a geometric motif with hints of gold. The iconic Art Deco movement made an indelible mark on all fields of design throughout the 1920s and ’30s, celebrating society’s growing industrialization with refined elegance and stunning craftsmanship. Find a selection of Art Deco furniture and decor from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What era was Art Deco rings?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco rings are from the era of the 1920s and 1930s. While Art Deco began to emerge a bit earlier than that, the style truly gained momentum after the end of World War I. Rings from the time period often feature geometric motifs, bold colors and designs that were influenced by Cubism, Futurism and other movements in visual art. Diamonds were exceptionally popular, while accent gems such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies brought vivid color to engagement rings and added sophistication and glamour. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Art Deco rings.

Question 15

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 16

What does Art Deco ring mean?

Accepted Answer

The term Art Deco ring means a ring produced in the Art Deco style. Most Art Deco jewelry dates back to the 1920s and 30s and features defined lines and geometric motifs. While a lot of Art Deco rings were black and white — the black coming from the use of onyx or black enamel and the white from rock crystal and diamonds — there is plenty of color in jewelry of the era. A perfect accent to diamonds in platinum settings were blue sapphires, emeralds and rubies, and these stones were also used in combination with each other. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Art Deco rings.

Question 17

Who are some of the most famous Art Deco artists?

Accepted Answer

There are many famous Art Deco artists. In addition, the movement produced many well-known designers and architects. Some of the most notable creatives who contributed to the Art Deco movement include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, René Lalique, Eileen Gray, Jean Dunand, Donald Deskey and Jean Perzel. Explore a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What are the main characteristics of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, visual drama and metallic finishes.

Question 19

Why did Art Deco go out of style?

Accepted Answer

In its time, Art Deco went out of style due to shifts in trends. After World War II, designers became more interested in modernism and creating pieces with an emphasis on function and simplicity, a move away from the embellishment and adornment that characterized the Art Deco style. It's important to note that Art Deco never fully disappeared. In fact, many present-day collectors have a passion for pieces produced during the 1920s and ’30s. Shop a large selection of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What is the difference between Memphis and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Memphis and Art Deco is that the terms refer to two different design styles. Art Deco emerged in the 1920s, and its pieces often flaunt bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs and ornamental details, such as mirrored finishes and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Named after the Memphis Group, which formed in 1980, Memphis design emphasizes freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors. Some people describe it as Art Deco meets Pop art. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Art Deco and Memphis design furniture.

1970 Art Deco

Vintage 1970s French Art Deco Benches

Art Deco Steel and Bronze Bench

Vintage 1970s Spanish Hollywood Regency Candlesticks

Pair of Art Deco Candle Holder in Stainless Steel 4 Flammes, Spain, 1970

Vintage 1970s French Art Deco Paintings

1970's Art Deco style Oil on Canvas "Angel on my Shoulder" Custom Art Deco Frame

Vintage 1970s Spanish Hollywood Regency Candlesticks

Pair art deco candlesticks in stainless steel 3 flames blue stones, Spain 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Sculptures and Carvings

Amilcare Santini Silver-plated Resin Sculpture Art Deco

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Édouard DermitButterfly, Art Deco Silkscreen by Edouard Dermit, circa 1970

1970s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Giancarlo ImpigliaPulcinella, Original Art Deco Oil Painting by Giancarlo Impiglia, 1975

Vintage 1970s French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Art Deco Mirrored French Coffee Table, Circa 1970

Vintage 1970s French Art Deco Floor Lamps

Pair of Floor Lamp Art Deco 1970, France

Vintage 1970s Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Art Deco Style Baguette Briolet Rubies Diamonds Earrings Box, 1970

Vintage 1970s Dutch Art Deco Busts

Rare Sophisticated 1970 Buste in Art Deco Style

Mid-20th Century Turkish Art Deco Turkish Rugs

Art Decò Turkish Rug, 1950-1970

Vintage 1970s French Hollywood Regency Sunburst Mirrors

Art Deco Sun Mirror, 1970, France

1970s Art Deco Portrait Prints

ErtéThe Blue Dress, Art Deco signed lithography by Erte, 1979

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Vases

Large Floral Crystal Glass Centerpiece Shell Bowl by Art Vannes, France, 1970

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Wall Mirrors

1970's Gloria Eriksen Frosted Art Mirror With Brass Frame

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

L'Amour - Lithograph after Aubrey Beardsley - 1970, 1970

Vintage 1970s Swiss Art Deco Vanity Items

Art Deco Rare Iconic Vintage & Elegant Dunhill Silver Plated Circa 1970s

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

L'Amour - Lithograph after Aubrey Beardsley - 1970, 1970

1970s Art Deco Prints and Multiples

Jean Monneret1979 Art Deco poster designed by Monneret fot the 90th des indépendants, 1979

1970s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Kid Utah"Radio City Music Hall" Art Deco Geometric Painting on Canvas with Gold Diptych, 1973

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

1970's Postmodern Art Deco Sculptural Lucite Coffee Table

1970s Art Deco Landscape Photography

Mitchell FunkThe Empire State Building Art Deco Skyscraper Silhouetted, New York in the 1970s, 1971

1970s Abstract Sculptures

Colin Webster WatsonBronze Modernist Biomorphic Sculpture Horse, Stand Colin Webster Watson Art Deco, 1970

Vintage 1970s Art Deco Paintings

Vintage Framed Art

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Style Glass and Brass Wall lights, Italy 1970

Vintage 1970s Unknown Art Deco Floor Lamps

1970's Hollywood Regency Art Deco Brass Floor Lamps - a Pair

Mid-20th Century Turkish Art Deco Turkish Rugs

Art Deco Rug Turkish Minimalist Design, 1950-1970

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Dining Room Tables

1970's Art Deco Hollywood Regency Brass & Smoked Glass Dining Table

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Sofas

Breathtaking Art Deco Revival Sofa in Rattan Parquetry, Italy, circa 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ruffled Murano Hand Blown Glass Pendant Waved Pink, 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ruffled Murano Hand Blown Glass Pendant Transparent Pink, 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ruffled Murano Hand Blown Glass Pendant Pink White, 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ruffled Murano Hand Blown Glass Pendant Pink Marbled, 1970

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ruffled Murano Hand Blown Glass Pendant Red Cream, 1970

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

ErtéMelisande from the At the Theatre Suite, Art Deco Lithograph by Erte, 1983

1970s Figurative Prints

ErtéArt Deco Serigraph entitled "Curtain" signed Erté, circa 1977

1970s Art Deco Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

David Edward ByrdThe WHO original 1970 TOMMY concept drawing, 1970

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

ErtéThe Letter 'C' from the Alphabet Suite, Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

1970s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Édouard Dermit
Butterfly, Art Deco Silkscreen by Edouard Dermit, circa 1970

Giancarlo Impiglia
Pulcinella, Original Art Deco Oil Painting by Giancarlo Impiglia, 1975

Erté
The Blue Dress, Art Deco signed lithography by Erte, 1979

Jean Monneret
1979 Art Deco poster designed by Monneret fot the 90th des indépendants, 1979

Kid Utah
"Radio City Music Hall" Art Deco Geometric Painting on Canvas with Gold Diptych, 1973

Mitchell Funk
The Empire State Building Art Deco Skyscraper Silhouetted, New York in the 1970s, 1971

Colin Webster Watson
Bronze Modernist Biomorphic Sculpture Horse, Stand Colin Webster Watson Art Deco, 1970

Erté
Melisande from the At the Theatre Suite, Art Deco Lithograph by Erte, 1983

Erté
Art Deco Serigraph entitled "Curtain" signed Erté, circa 1977

David Edward Byrd
The WHO original 1970 TOMMY concept drawing, 1970

Erté
The Letter 'C' from the Alphabet Suite, Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

Erté
The Letter I from the Alphabet Suite, Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

Erté
The Letter 'O' from the Alphabet Suite, Signed Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

Erté
The Letter 'C' from the Alphabet Suite, Signed Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

Erté
The Letter 'Y' from the Alphabet Suite, Art Deco Screenprint by Erte, 1976

Erté
Costume Design - Gouache by Erté - 1970, 1970

Erté
Costume Design - Gouache by Erté - 1970, 1970