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 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 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 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 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

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 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 7

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 8

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 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

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 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

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 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 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.

Deskey Art Deco

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Console Tables

Donald Deskey Art Deco Sideboard Consoles, Pair

Early 20th Century Art Deco Sideboards

Donald Deskey Art Deco Sideboard Console

Vintage 1950s American Mid-Century Modern Andirons

1950's Donald Deskey Art-Deco Style Andirons

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Vintage Donald Deskey Art Deco Dresser with Bronze Pulls

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Donald Deskey Art Deco Mirror circa 1930s Documented in Deskey Book

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Night Stands

Donald Deskey Art Deco Illuminated Nightstand in Highly Figured Avodire 1940s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Andirons

Donald Deskey Art Deco Brass Andirons and Fireplace Set Vintage Rare

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Art Deco Skyscraper Dressers in Highly Figured Avodire 1940s Pair

Mid-20th Century American Vanities

Donald Deskey Art Deco Vanity + Stool & Mirror in Highly Figured Avodire 1940s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Bookcases

Donald Deskey Art Deco Bookcase circa 1930s Refinished In Your Choice of Color

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

"Similar Table at Radio City Music Hall" , Attributed to Donald Deskey, Art Deco

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

Sleek Donald Deskey Art Deco High Boy Dresser for Widdicomb Furniture in Maple

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

1930s Donald Deskey Art Deco Low Maple Dresser with Round Mirror for Widdicomb

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Secretaires

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Skyscraper Design Secretary Wall Cabinet or Desk

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Cabinets

Rare Donald Deskey American Art Deco Moderne Chest

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Console Tables

Donald Deskey Style Modernist Art Deco Console Table

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Carts and Bar Carts

Art Deco Folding Bar Cart Attributed to Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Floor Lamps

Art Deco Machine Age Floor Lamp by Donald Deskey for Deskey Vollmer Inc. C 1930s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Pair of Streamlined Art Deco Chests or Dressers

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Side Tables

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Machine Age Side Table

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Donald Deskey styled Art Deco Solid Brass Skyscraper Fireplace Andirons

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

Art Deco Documented Lacquer & Brushed Aluminum High Chest by Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Sideboards

Art Deco Bookmatched & Burled Elm & Black Lacquer Sideboard by Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Pair of Donald Deskey Streamlined Art Deco Chests, USA, Circa 1930s

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

Donald Deskey Deco Chest of Drawers

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Green Lacquered Chest of Drawers, Newly Refinished

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Green Lacquered Chests of Drawers, Newly Refinished

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Caucasian Rugs

Classic Art Deco Stylized Throw Rug / wall hanging after Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Desks and Writing Tables

Art Deco Robin's Egg Blue Lacquer & Brushed Aluminum Desk by Donald Deskey

20th Century American Art Deco Dressers

Period Donald Deskey Deco Chest of Drawers

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Console Tables

Art Deco Machine Age Donald Deskey style Chrome Sofa Table Console

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Andirons

Donald Deskey Style Polished Brass and Steel Art Deco Fireplace Andirons

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Donald Deskey Clean Lined Art Deco Headboard circa 1930s King or Queen Size

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Art Deco Glass Ball, Polished Chrome & Black Enamel Andirons by Donald Deskey

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Floor Lamps

Pair of Art Deco Floor Lamps in the Manner of Donald Deskey

Mid-20th Century Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Art Deco Machine Carpathian Elm Expanding Dining Table by Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Side Tables

Machine Age or Art Deco Side Table in the Style of Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Side Tables

Pair of Machine Age Art Deco Side Tables in the Style of Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Andirons

Art Deco Chrome and Brass Geometric Andirons Attributed to Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s North American Machine Age Coffee and Cocktail Tables