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

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

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 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 Diver

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Shark Diver, " Superb, Unique Art Deco Engraved Glass Vase with Nude Male Diver

1980s Prints and Multiples

Razzia (Gérard Courbouleix–Dénériaz)Original poster realized by Razzia - Deauville Normandy - The diver, 1982

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Barware

Mid Century Deep Sea Diver's Helmet Ice Bucket Made in Italy 1970

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Two Nude Divers", Rare, Large Engraved Glass Art Deco Vase w/ Male Figures

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Helbros Yellow Gold Filled Cushion Shaped Watch from 1940s with Original Dial

Late 20th Century Italian Post-Modern Table Lamps

Walter Garro 1990 for Samuel Parker Slamp Post Modern Memphis Italian Table Lamp

Antique Mid-19th Century Swiss Modernist Wrist Watches

1942 Rolex “Raleigh” Stainless Steel. Total Restoration!

People Also Browsed

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Male Nude with Harp", Art Deco Engraved Glass Vase by Lindstrand for Orrefors

Early 2000s Academic Figurative Paintings

Mark BeardLe Martyr de Saint Sebastian (Academic Figurative Oil Painting in Gold Frame), date unknown

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Prints

"Horses in the Sun, " Remarkable Woodblock Print by Charles Kassler, Art Deco

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

"Male Nude with Banner and Pole, " Rare Midcentury Painting by Lear

2010s Contemporary Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Bill BuchmanMale Nude 19, Drawing, Pastels on Paper, 2010

Vintage 1940s Drawings

1940s Male Nude Art Study Drawing in Charcoal on Paper

Early 2000s Contemporary Nude Prints

Mark JenkinsContemplation, 2005

Early 20th Century Romantic Nude Paintings

Romanticist Oil on Burlap Painting of a Nude Male Figure Bathing in a River , 20th Century

1980s Contemporary Nude Photography

Greg GormanDavid Michalek, Contemporary, Nude, Photography, 1987

2010s Contemporary Nude Photography

Ricky CoheteMan against wall, One. Motion Series. Male Nude Sepia Photograph, 2017 - 2019

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Paintings

"Sailor in Repose, " Mid Century Watercolor w/ Male Nude by Emlen Etting

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Standing Male Model from Behind, " Beautiful Male Nude, Three-Quarters Size

20th Century Japanese Mid-Century Modern Sculptures and Carvings

Japan 1950s Museum Bronze Over Life-Size "Male Reborn” Koga Tadao, 84"

2010s Contemporary Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Rick SindtThe Body is Sacred - Muscular Male Nude, Graphite Drawing on Paper, Framed, 2021

20th Century French Modern Posters

Razzia, Original Louis Vuitton Trophy Cup, Auckland New Zealand, Sailboat, 2002

2010s Modern Nude Drawings and Watercolors

Mark BeardMB 808 (Figurative Charcoal Drawing on Paper of Two Male Nudes Models) , 2016

Recent Sales

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Brooches

1930'S Art Deco Bakelite & Wood Figural "Diver Girl" Brooch Pin

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Croton stainless steel Depthmaster 1000 Diver’s Pac Man Self Winding Wristwatch

Early 20th Century Art Deco Cuff Bracelets

Art Deco Lupu Sterling Silver Diver Leather Cuff Bracelet

21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Contemporary Art

'Pearl Diver' A Contemporary Oil on Canvas by Vera Jefferson

20th Century Prints

Art Deco Wood Engraving by Rockwell kent ( The Diver)

Vintage 1930s Swedish Vases

"Nude Diver, " Classic Art Deco Vase by Lindstrand for Orrefors

Vintage 1920s Belgian Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Bronze Sculpture of a Diver by J.Duquet

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Abstract Sculptures

Early 20th Century Metal Diver Helmet on Stand

Mid-20th Century German Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Sculpture of a Diver

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Nude Diver, " Classic Art Deco Vase by Lindstrand for Orrefors

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Vases

Extremely Rare, Large "Nude Diver and Shark" Art Deco Vase

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Two Divers, " Rare and Exceptional Art Deco Engraved Vase by Lindstrand

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Two Divers, " Large, Ambitious Art Deco Glass Vase w/ Male Nudes by Lindstrand

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

Vicke Lindstrand Pearl Diver Vase for Orrefors

Vintage 1960s Swiss Wrist Watches

Nivada Grenchen stainless steel Depthmaster 1000 "Pac Man” Diver’s Wristwatch

More Ways To Browse

Razzia (Gérard Courbouleix–Dénériaz)
Original poster realized by Razzia - Deauville Normandy - The diver, 1982

Mark Beard
Le Martyr de Saint Sebastian (Academic Figurative Oil Painting in Gold Frame), date unknown

Bill Buchman
Male Nude 19, Drawing, Pastels on Paper, 2010

Mark Jenkins
Contemplation, 2005

Greg Gorman
David Michalek, Contemporary, Nude, Photography, 1987

Ricky Cohete
Man against wall, One. Motion Series. Male Nude Sepia Photograph, 2017 - 2019

Rick Sindt
The Body is Sacred - Muscular Male Nude, Graphite Drawing on Paper, Framed, 2021

Mark Beard
MB 808 (Figurative Charcoal Drawing on Paper of Two Male Nudes Models) , 2016