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 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 2

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 3

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 4

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 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

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 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

Are Art Deco rings timeless?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Art Deco rings are timeless by many people's standards. Inspired by architecture, Art Deco jewelry pieces show off intricate geometric designs that have remained stylish decade after decade. Plus, the most commonly used materials during the Art Deco period, like platinum and 14-karat yellow gold, are classics. Shop a variety of Art Deco rings on 1stDibs.

Question 12

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 13

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

Who were the key Art Deco designers?

Accepted Answer

Among the key Art Deco designers were Tamara de Lempicka, Erté, René Lalique, Le Corbusier, Jean Dunand, Léon Bakst, Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Sonia Delaunay, Georges Lepape and Jean Després.

Question 18

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 19

What years are considered Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The years between 1920 and 1939 are generally considered to be the age of Art Deco. However, the name of the movement didn't arrive until 1925, when the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, France, introduced Art Deco design to the world. After the 1930s, Art Deco continued to have an impact, influencing the Streamline Moderne and mid-century modern styles. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Art Deco jewelry, furniture and decorative objects.

Question 20

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.

Art Deco Dressed

Late 20th Century Art Deco Abstract Prints

Sonia DelaunayWoman with Art Deco Dress - Lithograph (Artcurial edition), 1994

2010s Australian Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Diamond and Emerald Art Deco Dress Ring

1930s Casual Dresses

1930S Black Silk Chiffon Sheer Chanel Style Art Deco Dress With White Rayon Tr

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Brooches

Antique Art Deco Dress Clip Female Painter Artist With Palette And Brushes

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Art Deco Dress Ring Circa 1930

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Patek Philippe Platinum Ladies Art Deco Dress Watch circa 1920's

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Brooches

Alfred Phillippe for Trifari Art Deco Dress Clips

1920s Aesthetic Evening Dresses

Vintage 1920's Seafoam Green Scenic Print Silk & Beaded Chiffon Art-Deco Dress

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Table Lamps

French Art Deco 'Dress' Table Lamp in Pewter, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Omega Platinum Diamond Articulated Art Deco Dress Watch, circa 1930s

Vintage 1920s Unknown Art Deco Engagement Rings

8.50 Carat Ruby Art Deco Dress Ring with Diamonds, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Patek Philippe 18Kt. Solid Yellow Gold Art Deco Dress Watch 1920's

Early 1800s Tea Gowns

Edwardian Black & White Silk Cotton Embroidered Tulle Lace 1917 Early Art-Deco

1930s French Evening Dresses and Gowns

Deco Beaded Dot Dance Dress

Vintage 1930s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Ebel Ladies Platinum Art Deco Dress Style Watch from 1930s Handmade High Grade

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Brooches

Tiffany & Co. 1938 Art Deco Dress Clips Brooches 14Kt Yellow Gold With Sapphires

Vintage 1950s American Wrist Watches

Benrus 14Kt. Solid Gold Art Deco Dress Watch with Original Dial 1950's

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Audemars Piguet 18Kt. Yellow and Rose Gold Hand Made Art Deco Dress Watch 1940's

1920s American Aesthetic Day Dresses

1920s Art Deco Ivory Silk Shirtwaister Dress

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco More Jewelry

Antique Art Deco Grouse Dressclip Theodor Fahrner Sterling Silver Gilt Enamel

1920s French Aesthetic Evening Dresses

Vintage 1920's Magenta Pink Beaded & Rhinestone Silk-Velvet Flapper Deco Dress

1920s French Day Dresses

Art Deco Print Afternoon Dress

1920s European Day Dresses

Art Deco Hand Crochet Fringed Dress

1930s Art Deco Portrait Paintings

James P. BarracloughPamela Abercromby - British Art Deco 30's portrait oil painting lady in green, 1933

1930s American Day Dresses

Art Deco Rayon Shadow Stripe Slip Dress

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Rima 14 Karat Solid Gold Art Deco Ladies Dress Watch from, 1940s

1920s American Cocktail Dresses

Art Deco 'Flapper' Beaded Cocktail Dress

1980s American Mini Dress

Vintage Art Deco Style Beaded Mini Dress Black and Gold

1930s Day Dresses

Art Deco Slip Dress with Dangling Bell Flowers

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Day Dresses

Deco Shadow Print Chiffon Cherries Dress

Vintage 1940s Swiss Art Deco Wrist Watches

Birks Platinum Art Deco Ladies Diamond and Sapphire Dress Watch from 1940s

1920s American Art Deco Informal Dresses

Deco Chiffon Print Dress

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Evening Dresses and Gowns

Art Deco Gold Lace and Beaded Flapper Dress

1930s Day Dresses

Art Deco Rayon Day Dress, Retailed by Moore's Honolulu

1930s American Day Dresses

1930's Art Deco Cotton Cherry Print Day Dress

Early 2000s Japanese Day Dresses

Junya Watanabe Art Deco Print Dress With Cutouts 2003

Early 20th Century Unknown Day Dresses

1920s art deco Black lace dress with blue velvet strap

1930s French Day Dresses

Art Deco Hand Embroidered Silk Chiffon and Crepe Slip Dress

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Cufflinks

Art Deco Men's Figural Faux Button Gold, Enamel, and MOP Cufflink Dress Set

1920s European Maxi Dresses

Sonia Delaunay
Woman with Art Deco Dress - Lithograph (Artcurial edition), 1994

James P. Barraclough
Pamela Abercromby - British Art Deco 30's portrait oil painting lady in green, 1933