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 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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 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

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 10

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 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

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 13

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 14

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 15

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 16

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 17

Who are some of the most famous Art Deco artists?

Accepted Answer

There are many famous Art Deco artists. In addition, the movement produced many well-known designers and architects. Some of the most notable creatives who contributed to the Art Deco movement include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, René Lalique, Eileen Gray, Jean Dunand, Donald Deskey and Jean Perzel. Explore a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 18

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 19

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.

Question 20

What is the difference between Memphis and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Memphis and Art Deco is that the terms refer to two different design styles. Art Deco emerged in the 1920s, and its pieces often flaunt bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs and ornamental details, such as mirrored finishes and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Named after the Memphis Group, which formed in 1980, Memphis design emphasizes freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors. Some people describe it as Art Deco meets Pop art. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Art Deco and Memphis design furniture.

Art Deco Towel

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Dry Bars

Art Deco Towel Holder Bars, Nickel Brass Glass, 1930s

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Dry Bars

Art Deco Towel Holder Bars, Nickel Brass Glass, 1930s

Early 20th Century German Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Glass & Brass Towel Holder

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Chrome Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Chrome Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Early 20th Century Japanese Art Deco Porcelain

Art Deco Green Elephant Towel Napkin Holder

Mid-20th Century Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Vintage Solid Brass Handles Towel Rails Towel Bar Pair Duo Austria 1930

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

French Art Deco Double Glass Towel Holder with Brass Ends, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Austrian Bauhaus Bathroom Fixtures

Set of Two Functionalism, Art Deco Chrome Towel Holders, 1930s

1940s Art Deco Black and White Photography

The River Seine and the Eiffel Towel, Paris, Silver Gelatin B and W Photography, circa 1940

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Towel Holder, Vienna, Around 1920s

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Art Deco Doors and Gates

Patinated Brass Towel Rack for Kitchen, Bathroom or Stairway, 1950s

Vintage 1940s Italian Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Figure of Girl with Beach Towel from Le Bertetti Torino, 1940s

Vintage 1930s Czech Art Deco Wall Brackets

Art Deco Hanger for Towels, 1930’s

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

Vintage Art Deco MCM Aluminum and Copper Wall Shelf Towel Rack Coat Hook

Mid-20th Century British Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Vintage Wall Mounted Towel Rail, English, Glass, Chrome, Valet, Art Deco, C.1930

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Waldorf Astoria Hotel, NYC, Nickel-Plated Brass Hotel Storage Towel Racks

Vintage 1910s American Art Deco Decorative Baskets

Original Mott's Plumbing Towel Basket Made of Nickel-Plated Brass from the 1910s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder Nickel Glass, 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Folding Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

2 Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder Vienna Around 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Towel Holder Vienna Around 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

3 Identical Art Deco Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Very Elegant Nickel-Glass Art Deco Towel Holder, Vienna, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Czech Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

Art Deco Towel Hanger, 1920s

Vintage 1930s Danish Art Deco Nautical Objects

Nautical Art Deco Towel Rack in Bronze, 1930s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Nickel Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Art Deco Folding Towel Rack, circa 1920s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Chrome Deco Towel Hamper

Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

Rare Art Deco, Functionalism, Bauhaus Towel Hanger, 1930s

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

Art Deco Solid Chrome on Brass Towel Rail Radiator

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures

Two Art Deco Nickel-Plated Towel Holder, circa 1920s

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

1940s Vintage Elegance Art Deco Modern Towel Rack Bar Tubular Glass and Chrome

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Bathroom Fixtures