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

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Art Deco Lowboy

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Fine Hammered Copper

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Mid. Hammered Antique Bronze

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Fine Hammered Antique Bronze

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Fine Hammered White Bronze

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Mid. Hammered White Bronze

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Smooth Brass by Alison Spear

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Smooth Copper by Alison Spear

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Mid. Hammered Copper by Alison Spear

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Mid. Hammered Brass by Alison Spear

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Fine Hammered Brass by A. Spear

2010s American Other Lowboys

Louise Art Deco Lowboys Square Drink Table Smooth White Bronze by Alison Spear

Vintage 1930s Austrian Art Deco Sideboards

Austrian Mastercraft Lowboy Art Deco 1930 / Original, Restored

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Vanities

Antique Art Deco Mirrored Vanity with Stool

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

French Art Deco Two-Tone Walnut Table with Nickeled Mounts

Vintage 1940s American Streamlined Moderne Dressers

Eliel Saarinen Inspired Streamline Moderne Lowboy Dresser w/ Black Front

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco End Tables

Original French Art Deco Macassar Ebony Square Table, Michel Roux-Spitz

Vintage 1930s British Bedroom Sets

High Style Art Deco Bronze and Bird's-Eye Dresser and Vanity Set Bedroom Set

20th Century South African Art Deco Tables

Adjustable Mahogany Square Low Table, Modern

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Side Tables

Original French Rectangular or Octagonal Walnut and Sycamore Side Table

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

French Wrought Iron Glass Top Coffee / Cocktail Table, Attrib to Poillerat

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Burled Maple and Brass Long Dresser after Heywood Wakefield

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Night Stands

Pair of French Modernist Silvered Wood, Mahogany and Blonde Side/ Night tables

Recent Sales

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Lowboys

French Art Deco Ebony De Macassar, Parquetry & Bronze, Low Table, Jules Leleu

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

Dresser Lowboy by Norman Bel Geddes for Simmons circa 1930s, Baby Blue and White

20th Century American Art Deco Dressers

Machine Age Art Deco Streamline Pair of Aluminum Chests or Dressers Bel Geddes

20th Century American Art Deco Cabinets

Burlwood, Butterfly Entertainment Wall Unit

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Bedroom Sets

Mid Century Long Credenza Sideboard

21st Century and Contemporary American Cabinets

Arc Cabinet in Grey Lacquer and Bronze by Newell Design

Vintage 1940s American Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Eliel Saarinen Art Deco Lowboy

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Art Deco Lowboy Chest of Drawers in Maple Burl Wood

Vintage 1940s Italian Art Deco Lowboys

Small Art Deco Lowboard, Black Lacquer and Metal, Italy, Circa 1940

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Dressers

Art Deco Tri-Bond Furniture Flame Walnut Burl 6 Drawer Lowboy Dresser 1930s

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco End Tables

French Art Deco Octagonal Inlaid Skyscraper Side Table

Vintage 1940s American Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Eliel Saarinen Art Deco Highboy

20th Century French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

French Art Deco 1930s, Rectangular Wall Mirror, André Arbus

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

Bedroom Set by Donald Deskey for Widdicomb

20th Century French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Modernist "S" curve sycamore and glass top coffee table- Jean Royere

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Scientific Instruments

Antique Original Philco Model 90 Baby Grand Walnut Burl Cathedral Tube Radio

20th Century French Night Stands

Pair of French 40's two drawer night tables with nickeled mounts