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.

Asymmetrical Art Deco

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Cabinets

Asymmetrical Art Deco Cabinet in Macassar, France 1930s

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Engagement Rings

GIA Certified Asymmetrical Art Deco Antique Diamond Engagement Ring

Late 20th Century American Art Deco Vases

Vintage Sculptural Asymmetrical Art Deco White Ceramic Vase 1980s

Vintage 1930s Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Large Asymmetrical Art Deco Chinese Ochre Hand-knotted Wool Rug

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Sideboards

Art Deco Lowboard, Black Lacquer, Chrome Fittings, France circa 1930

Vintage 1950s American Hollywood Regency Lounge Chairs

Pair of Hollywood Regency Fireside Chairs Attributed to Grosfeld House

Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Wardrobes and Armoires

Beautiful Asymetric Art Deco Triple Wardrobe with Royal Provenance

Vintage 1950s Unknown Art Deco Cocktail Rings

Vintage 1950s 0.75 Carat Diamond and 14k White Gold Art Deco Twist Ring

Vintage 1920s Unknown Art Deco Brooches

Antique Art Deco Large 9.68 Carat Diamond and Platinum Brooch Circa 1925

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Signet Rings

1930s French Art Deco Diamonds Platinum Asymmetrical Ring

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Armchairs

American Art Deco Modernage Asymmetrical Chair and Ottoman

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Vanities

Art Deco Asymmetrical French Vanity With Full Length Mirror & Drawers

1930s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Giorgio RossiAsymmetrical head of man, terracotta, 1930s-40s, Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)., 1930-40s

Vintage 1920s Italian Art Deco Credenzas

Italian Art Deco asymmetrical wooden sideboard with glass display cabinet, 1920s

21st Century and Contemporary American Art Deco Engagement Rings

Art Deco Diamond Engagement Ring, Round Stone Asymmetric Ring ER15012

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

20th Century French Vintage Art Deco Asymmetrical Brass Wall Glass Mirror

Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Night Stands

Vintage Art Deco to MCM Low Asymmetrical Nightstands or End Tables a Pair

Vintage 1920s French Mid-Century Modern Desks and Writing Tables

Eugene Printz, French Art Deco, Mahogany, Rare Asymmetric Desk, France, c. 1925

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Pair Scalloped Asymmetrical Lounge Chairs, 1940s

Vintage 1980s French Art Deco Multi-Strand Necklaces

Christian Lacroix Vintage 1980s Asymmetric Black Crystals Silver Long Necklace

Vintage 1980s German Art Deco Clip-on Earrings

Christian Dior Vintage 1980s Asymmetric Amethyst Crystals Water Drop Earrings

Vintage 1980s German Art Deco Clip-on Earrings

Christian Dior Vintage 1980s Asymmetric Amethyst Crystals Water Drop Earrings

Vintage 1920s Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Rug

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Asymmetrical Channel Fan-Back Newly Upholstered Lounges and Ottoman

Vintage 1980s German Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Christian Dior Vintage 1980s White Round Pearl Asymmetric Double Wings Necklace

Vintage 1980s American Art Deco Sofas

Burgundy Red Velvet Asymmetrical Cloud Sofa Set by Weiman

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Asymmetric Dust Purple Flower Green Beige Pendant Chunky Drop Clip Earrings

Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs

Antique Chinese Peking, Art Deco Design

Vintage 1980s French Art Deco Clip-on Earrings

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Asymmetric Triangle Ruby Crystal Clip Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Asymmetric Dust Purple Flower Green Beige Pendant Chunky Drop Pierced Earrings

2010s American Art Deco Vases

Asymmetrical Crystal Vase with Brass Accents – A Modern Masterpiece

Vintage 1980s French Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Yves Saint Laurent YSL Vintage Asymmetric Circle Crystal Eye Tear Drop Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Asymmetric Japanese Ukiyo-e Cloud Round Pearl Retro Drop Pierced Earrings

Vintage 1980s Italian Art Deco Clip-on Earrings

Fendi Vintage 1980s Asymmetric Fendista Logo FF Ivory Oval Chunky Clip Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary American Art Deco Bridal Rings

Handmade Asymmetrical Tourmaline Stackable Ring in 14k Solid Yellow Gold

21st Century and Contemporary British Art Deco Clip-on Earrings

Asymmetric Navy Red Semicircle Abstract Women Lady Portrait Enamel Clip Earrings

2010s Indian Art Deco Stud Earrings

14K Solid Gold Japanese Asymmetric Star Stud Earrings Women Modern Diamond Studs

20th Century British Art Deco Night Stands

A 1930's Art Deco Walnut bedside cabinet or nightstand, provenance Claridge's

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Tobacco Accessories

Rare 1930s Art Deco Evans Chrome & Enamel Cigarette Case and Matching Ligher Set

Vintage 1930s Dutch Art Deco Desks

Giorgio Rossi
Asymmetrical head of man, terracotta, 1930s-40s, Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)., 1930-40s

Erte - Romain de Tirtoff
Erte, 'La Princesse Lointaine', Signed Limited Edition Artist Proof Serigraph, 1984

Erte - Romain de Tirtoff
Erte, 'Nocturne', Signed Limited Edition Serigraph, 1985, 1985

Erté
Erté (Romain de Tirtoff) - Manhattan Mary IV: serigraph Broadway musical, 1927