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 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 2

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 3

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 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

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 6

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 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 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 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 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 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

What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Art Deco and mid-century modern (MCM) is that the terms describe two distinct design styles. Art Deco typically refers to pieces produced between the 1920s and 1930s. Furniture produced in this style tends to display bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs, metal accents, shimmering mirrored finishes and embellishments made from exotic animal hides, inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. MCM, or mid-century modern, emerged after World War II. Organically shaped, clean-lined and elegantly simple are three terms that well describe vintage mid-century modern furniture. Designers working in this style frequently used industrial materials, including steel, fiberglass, molded plywood, and alluring woods such as teak, rosewood and oak. Explore a wide variety of Art Deco and mid-century modern furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 13

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 14

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 15

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.

Question 16

Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The answer to whether Eileen Gray's designs were Art Deco depends on which piece you're considering. Gray was ever-evolving as a designer. By the early 1920s, she was creating geometric works that embodied the essence of Art Deco and the nascent modernist design movement. Some pieces, like her Bricks screen, employ the planar forms favored by Gerrit Rietveld and other De Stijl architects of the Netherlands. Others feature the tubular chrome framing used by Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who are associated with the mid-century modern design style. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Eileen Gray furniture.

Question 17

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 18

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 19

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 20

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.

Art Deco Hotel Deco

1990s Art Deco Color Photography

Mitchell FunkArt Deco South Beach Miami Colony Hotel, 1998

2010s Abstract Geometric Landscape Photography

Mitchell FunkClassic Art Deco Marlin Hotel Miami Beach, South Beach, Fine Art Photography, 1999

2010s Abstract Geometric Landscape Photography

Mitchell FunkArt Deco Marlin Hotel On South Beach, Miami Beach with Hot Colors, 1995

1930s Prints and Multiples

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Early 2000s Contemporary Black and White Photography

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Vintage 1980s Art Deco Tableware

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Early 20th Century American Art Deco More Desk Accessories

Antique Art Deco Bakelite Hotel Dictophone Desk Phone c.1930

1930s American Textiles and Quilts

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Vintage Hilton Hotel Art Deco Nakazato Japan Silver Plated Coffee Pot

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Art Deco Copper and Bronze Bar - Hotel Reception - Counter Front 1920s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Tea Sets

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1990s Art Deco Tableware

NYC Waldorf Astoria Hotel Fish Flatware Set Art Deco 8 Piece

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Platters and Serveware

Art Deco Vintage Hotel Sterling Silver Ocean Liner Tea Coffee Set (Italy)

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Vintage Hotel Tea Chest, Chinese, Pewter Alloy, Chá Caddy, Art Deco, Circa 1930

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

1920's Rare Art Deco Grand Ritz Hotel Simulated Bamboo & Wood Valet Stand

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

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Antique Art Deco Grand Hotel de Paris 1921 Silver Serving Tray Platter European

1910s Art Deco Still-life Prints

Otto BaumbergerHotel St. Gothard Zurich., 1917

20th Century French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

French Art Deco Jacques Ruhlmann Style Silver Wall Sconces, George V Hotel Paris

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Ceramics

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Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Gio Ponti Art Dèco Italian Sofa from Hotel Bristol Merano, 1950s

1980s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Robin MorrisROOM SERVICE Signed Lithograph, Hotel Bellhop Portrait, Champagne Bottle, Flutes, 1983

1920s Art Deco Prints and Multiples

TonyTony's 1928 original poster for the Grand Hotel de Provence, 1928

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Chaise Longues

Attributed Gio Ponti Art Dèco Italian Armchair from Hotel Bristol Merano, 1950s

Vintage 1940s French Wall Lights and Sconces

1930 Pair of Large Art Deco Wall Lights, Le grand Hôtel Paris

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Vintage Hotel Silver Food Dome

Vintage 1920s Swiss Art Deco Posters

Original Antique Winter Travel Poster Palace Hotel St Moritz Switzerland

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Serving Bowls

Waldorf Astoria Hotel Silver Plated Silver Plated Bowl

Antique Early 1900s Art Deco Desks

Medium Oak Hotel Restaurant Reception Hostess Greeting Station, Greeter

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Platters and Serveware

Waldorf Astoria Hotel Silver Plated Beass Serving Tray

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Vintage Hotel Silver-Plate Teaspoons by Oneida/Priced Individually

Vintage 1940s Brazilian Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Dorothy Draper - Chest of Drawers from Quitandinha Palace Hotel - Circa 1944

20th Century American Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

NYC Waldorf Astoria Hotel Chrome over Brass Waldorf Bathroom Hook

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Nine Vintage Hotel Silver Plate Seafood Forks by Oneida

Late 20th Century Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

2 Vintage Green Marble Copper Lined Hotel Lobby Trash Can Ashtray Stands 30"

Antique Late 19th Century Art Deco Serving Pieces

Antique Hotel McAlpin International Silver Co Silver Soldered Serving Meat Dome

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

Six 1950's French Neoclassical Brass Hotel Wall Sconces

Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Tea Sets

Vintage "The Windermere Hotel" London Silver Plated Coffee Tea Pot by Gorham

Early 20th Century Austrian Art Deco Chairs

Mitchell Funk
Art Deco South Beach Miami Colony Hotel, 1998

Mitchell Funk
Classic Art Deco Marlin Hotel Miami Beach, South Beach, Fine Art Photography, 1999

Mitchell Funk
Art Deco Marlin Hotel On South Beach, Miami Beach with Hot Colors, 1995

Luca Artioli
Art Deco Delano Hotel. Miami Beach Black and White Architectural landscape Photo, 2009

Otto Baumberger
Hotel St. Gothard Zurich., 1917

Robin Morris
ROOM SERVICE Signed Lithograph, Hotel Bellhop Portrait, Champagne Bottle, Flutes, 1983

Tony
Tony's 1928 original poster for the Grand Hotel de Provence, 1928