Question 1

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 2

What was Art Nouveau influenced by?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau was influenced by a few things. The soft colors and abstract images of nature seen in Japanese woodblock prints, which arrived in large numbers in the West after open trade was forced upon Japan in the 1860s, were a major source of inspiration. Also, Pre-Raphaelite art and the Arts and Crafts and Rococo styles had an influence on Art Nouveau designers. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Art Nouveau furniture and decorative objects.

Question 3

What is Art Nouveau furniture?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau furniture was a style of furniture that emerged at the end of the 19th century and was characterized by its complex curved lines. The curved details in the furniture were typically carved by hand and finished with lacquer. The unmistakable gloss that is associated with Art Nouveau comes from the thick coat of varnish applied to the furniture as the final step of the production process.

Question 4

Why did Art Nouveau end?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau ended primarily due to world events. When World War I broke out in 1914, artistic production was largely halted in order to free up materials for manufacturing equipment for the war effort. By the time the 1919 Treaty of Versailles brought about the end of the war, interest in Art Nouveau had waned. Designers and artists became interested in new forms and styles, such as Art Deco. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture, decorative objects, jewelry and art.

Question 5

Where did Art Nouveau originate?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau originated in France and Great Britain, but variants materialized elsewhere. The visual vocabulary of Art Nouveau was particularly influenced by the soft colors and abstract images of nature as portrayed in Japanese art prints, which arrived in large numbers in the West after open trade was forced upon Japan in the 1860s. Impressionist artists were moved by the artistic tradition of Japanese woodblock printmaking and other modes of art and design in the East Asian country. The Art Nouveau style quickly reached a wide audience in Europe via advertising posters, book covers, illustrations and other work by such artists as Aubrey Beardsley, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Alphonse Mucha. While all Art Nouveau designs share common formal elements, different countries and regions produced their own versions. Explore a selection of Art Nouveau furniture, jewelry and art on 1stDibs.

Question 6

What is Art Nouveau jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau jewelry generally featured three main themes: flora, fauna and women. The Art Nouveau movement lasted 15 years and it reached its pinnacle in the year 1900. Art Nouveau jewelers used every “canvas” imaginable, looking beyond brooches and necklaces to belt buckles, fans, tiaras, dog collars (a type of choker necklace), pocket watches, corsages and hair combs. Multicolored gems and enamel could complete this vision better than diamonds. Enameling is most often associated with Art Nouveau jewelry, specifically plique-à-jour. Known as backless enamel, plique-à-jour allows light to come through the rear of the enamel because there is no metal backing. It creates an effect of translucence and lightness. Shop a collection of antique and vintage Art Nouveau jewelry from some of the world’s top jewelers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

How do you identify Art Nouveau furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Nouveau furniture, first try to locate a maker's mark on the piece. You can then use it to research the maker with the help of information published in trusted online resources. Some makers, such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Louis Majorelle and Émile Gallé, are well-known for their Art Nouveau furnishings. If you determine that a maker identified with Art Nouveau produced your piece, it likely reflects the movement's characteristics, especially if it was made during the late 19th or early 20th centuries. You can also look for common features of Art Nouveau furniture, such as sinuous, organic and flowing lines; forms that mimic flowers and plant life; decorative inlays and ornate carvings of natural-world motifs such as insects and animals and the use of hardwoods such as oak, mahogany and rosewood. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can aid you with the identification process. Shop a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I identify Art Nouveau jewelry?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Nouveau jewelry, first consider its overall shape and themes. Flora, fauna and female figures were the three main themes in Art Nouveau jewelry. Winged creatures, such as insects and birds, were also popular subjects. Next, examine the materials and techniques. Art Nouveau jewelers distinguished themselves from their predecessors through the use of their unorthodox materials and methods. Prior to the 20th century, artisans working with jewelry prioritized precious metals and diamonds. This was not true for Art Nouveau creators. Enameling is most often associated with Art Nouveau jewelry, specifically plique-à-jour. Known as backless enamel, plique-à-jour allows light to come through the rear of the enamel because there is no metal backing. It creates an effect of translucence and lightness. Art Nouveau jewelers also favored pearls, particularly baroque pearls, for their large size and irregular shape. However, opal was the most popular stone, and Art Nouveau jewelry was primarily set in yellow gold. If you need more help identifying your jewelry, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can assist you. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Art Nouveau jewelry.

Question 9

What did Alphonse Mucha do for Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

Alphonse Mucha was a Czech painter who is one of the originators of the Art Nouveau style. His style of painting and design rose in popularity in 1895 and he produced many works, including illustrations, posters and jewelry designs. Find a variety of Alphonso Mucha art and prints on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Who started the Art Nouveau movement?

Accepted Answer

No one person created the Art Nouveau movement. However, the term debuted in an 1884 article in the L'Art Moderne journal, describing the work of a collective of artists known as Les XX. As a result, some people credit the group and its founding members, James Ensor and Théo van Rysselberghe, as helping to define the movement. However, Art Nouveau was heavily informed by work that came before, including Rococo design, Pre-Raphaelite art, Japanese art and the Arts and Crafts movement. Beyond Les XX, a number of creators helped to propel the movement. Among them were Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Louis Majorelle, Émile Gallé, Antoni Gaudí and Tiffany Studios. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture and decorative objects.

Question 11

Is stained glass Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some stained glass is Art Nouveau. It was during this period that Louis Comfort Tiffany produced his famed stained glass windows and decorative objects. However, the tradition of producing stained glass traces all the way back to the Gothic period. You'll find a selection of stained glass on 1stDibs.

Question 12

What materials were used in Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

The Art Nouveau design movement used such materials as cast iron and steel, ceramic and glass. This style of architecture, design, art and jewelry was characterized by its use of long, sinuous lines that are reflected in nature.

Question 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Art Nouveau Deco

20th Century Art Nouveau Game Tables

Round Flip Top Art Nouveau Deco Banded Carved Walnut Game Table MINT!

Mid-20th Century Unknown Art Nouveau Candelabras

Vintage Art Nouveau Deco Wrought Iron Tall Floor Candle Holder Stand Candelabra

Vintage 1910s Swedish Art Deco Magazine Racks and Stands

Swedish Art Nouveau / Deco Magazine / Menu Card / News Paper Rack In Mahogany.

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Platters and Serveware

Antique Reed & Barton 1400 Art Nouveau Deco Lily Pad Leaf Charges Tray

Vintage 1930s American Art Nouveau Vases

Art Nouveau Deco Weller Pottery Vase with Handles

Vintage 1910s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

DAUM French Art Nouveau / Deco Pendant Chandelier, 1910-1915

Antique Early 1900s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Daum French Art Nouveau / Deco Pendant Chandelier, 1900-1905

Early 20th Century Vienna Secession Chairs

Josef Hoffmann "Fledermaus" Bat Seating Group, Suite, Thonet, Art Nouveau, Deco

Vintage 1910s French Art Deco Table Lamps

MULLER FRERES & G.MARCHAND French Art Nouveau / Deco Desk / Table Lamp, 1910s

Vintage 1920s Czech Art Nouveau Vases

Wonderful Pair Moser Vases Fine Quality Art Glass Art Nouveau Deco Gilt Enamel

Antique Early 1900s Austrian Art Nouveau Chairs

An ART NOUVEAU DECO CHAIR by JACOB & JOSEF KOHN, WIENER WERKSTATTE, Austria 1900

20th Century Wall-mounted Sculptures

Art Nouveau Deco Antique Silver Plated Tray or Plaque Female Figure with Bird

Early 20th Century Spanish Table Lamps

Banker Lamp Library Rare Big Art Nouveau-Deco Style Spain Early 20th Century

Antique Early 1900s American Art Deco Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Art Deco Fair Maiden Copper Plate signed April 4 1906

Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Figurative Paintings

David HumphreyImpressionist Painting Nude Bathers by David Humphrey, Early 20th Century

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Decorative Bowls

Art Deco Red Wing Art Pottery Ceramic Bowl / CachePot Model #176 circa 1930

Vintage 1930s Unknown Art Deco Floor Lamps

Italian Liberty Style Forged Iron and Hammered Copper Torchiere

Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

20th Century French Wrought Iron and Alabaster Chandelier

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Nouveau Bronze Chandelier & Wall Light Set

2010s Art Deco Paintings

Artemisia Fine ArtJungle NÂ°5 - Fern - Tropical - Monkeys - Art-Deco, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2024

1930s French Day Dresses

House of Adair Embroidered Cotton Floral Dress

1930s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Karel VonBelleArt Nouveau, Fleurs, 1935

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Vases

Rene Lalique 1922 France Art Nouveau Dahlia Lotus Flower Art Glass Tumbler M3404

Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Figurative Paintings

Paul HoggArt Nouveau Watercolour on Paper, Classical Chariot and Horses., 1919

Vintage 1920s Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

Muller Brothers Art Nouveau/Art Deco Chandelier

Early 20th Century Art Deco More Art

Paul Nicolas D' ArgentalArt Deco D'Argental cameo glass vase

Vintage 1920s Czech Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Nouveau / Art Deco Chandelier, 1920s

Early 1900s Art Nouveau Figurative Sculptures

Ferdinando De LucaAntique Italian Art Nouveau Coldpainted Bronze Orientalist Figure Arab Girl 1900, 1900

Antique Early 1900s Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

French Art Nouveau or Art Deco Coffee Table

2010s Art Deco Paintings

Steve KnottsArt Deco Campus Theatre, Painting, Oil on Canvas, 2015

Early 20th Century Unknown Art Nouveau Mirrors

Lady of the Lake Antique Art Nouveau Bronze Mirror Circa 1930

Vintage 1970s Art Deco Books

Art Nouveau & Art Deco Lighting by Alister Duncan

20th Century Art Nouveau Dangle Earrings

Art Deco, Nouveau Diamond Earrings, White Gold

Early 20th Century French Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco/ Nouveau Chandelier /Antique Signed

Vintage 1910s German Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Art Deco or Art Nouveau Walnut Writing Desk

Early 20th Century Art Deco Dressers

Art Deco/Nouveau Waterfall Vanity with Drawers

Vintage 1910s French Art Nouveau Floor Lamps

Art Deco/Art Nouveau floor lamp by Maurice Dufrène

2010s Austrian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco, Art Nouveau Brass Sconce - new edition

Early 20th Century Unknown Ceramics

English Art Pottery Orange Vase Ceramic Chinese Style Pot

Antique Early 1900s German Art Nouveau Decorative Art

David Humphrey
Impressionist Painting Nude Bathers by David Humphrey, Early 20th Century

Artemisia Fine Art
Jungle NÂ°5 - Fern - Tropical - Monkeys - Art-Deco, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2024

Karel VonBelle
Art Nouveau, Fleurs, 1935

Paul Hogg
Art Nouveau Watercolour on Paper, Classical Chariot and Horses., 1919

Paul Nicolas D' Argental
Art Deco D'Argental cameo glass vase

Ferdinando De Luca
Antique Italian Art Nouveau Coldpainted Bronze Orientalist Figure Arab Girl 1900, 1900

Steve Knotts
Art Deco Campus Theatre, Painting, Oil on Canvas, 2015

Affortunato Gory
Three Putti, Art Nouveau Bronze by Affortunato Gory

Muller Frères
Antique handmade lamp (chandelier) by Muller Frères, French Art Deco, 20th century

Artemisia Fine Art
Jungle Heart Beat - Two Tigers 2 - Tropical, Painting, Acrylic on Canvas, 2023

Edouard Benedictus
'Poppy' — Art Deco Pochoir from the acclaimed portfolio 'RELAIS', 1930