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.

What defines Art Deco?

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.

What is an Art Deco lamp?

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.

What is art deco ring?

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.

When did Art Deco originate?

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.

What was Art Deco influenced by?

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.

How do I identify Art Deco?

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.

What is an art deco watch?

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

What is art deco jewelry?

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.

What was the Art Deco movement?

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.

What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?

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.

What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?

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.

Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?

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.

What are the main features of Art Deco?

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.

What are the key features of Art Deco?

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

What is Art Deco style furniture?

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.

How do I identify Art Deco furniture?

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.

Is Art Deco jewelry valuable?

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.

What are Art Deco engagement rings?

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.

What are art deco lamps made of?

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.

Deskey Art Deco

Modernist Andirons

Streamline Dresser

Deskey Vollmer

Streamline Deco Furniture

Gilbert Rohde Machine Age

Valentine Seaver

Wicker, Wood

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Original Donald Deskey Art Deco Dressing Valet

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H 65 in W 50 in D 18 in

Original Donald Deskey Art Deco Dressing Valet

By Donald Deskey

Located in Dallas, TX

Massive machine age pulls, faced slide-out drawers in right inside door, shelf in left inside door, easily detachable center full-length mirror for moving. Integral base across width...

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Vanities

Amazing Donald Deskey Art Deco Mirror

Unavailable

H 4 in Dm 31 in

Amazing Donald Deskey Art Deco Mirror

Located in Mount Penn, PA

Rare Art Deco Mirror designed by Master Art Deco Designer Donald Deskey who's designed all the interior furnishings for the legendary Radio City Music Hall.

Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Donald Deskey Art Deco Round Table Mirror on a Nickel Bronze Stand

Unavailable

H 18 in Dm 16 in

Donald Deskey Art Deco Round Table Mirror on a Nickel Bronze Stand

By Donald Deskey

Located in Mount Penn, PA

An Art Deco Donald Deskey table mirror on a nickel bronze stand with ball accents, circa 1928-1930.

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Table Mirrors

Materials

Bronze, Nickel

Rare Modernist Art Deco Donald Deskey Mirror

Unavailable

H 16.75 in W 10.25 in D 6.75 in

Rare Modernist Art Deco Donald Deskey Mirror

By Donald Deskey

Located in Mount Penn, PA

Chrome curl design skyscraper Art Deco mirror designed by Art Deco master Donald Deskey of New York City radio city music hall fame.

Materials

Chrome, Nickel

Materials

Chrome, Iron

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Aluminum Andirons

Unavailable

H 14.75 in W 4.25 in D 16 in

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Aluminum Andirons

By Donald Deskey

Located in Los Angeles, CA

A great pair of aluminum irons that exemplify the graphic and grandiose architecture of the era.

Category

20th Century Andirons

Materials

Aluminum, Brass, Iron

Donald Deskey American Art Deco Bookcase Desk Cabinet

Unavailable

H 58.5 in W 29 in D 21 in

Donald Deskey American Art Deco Bookcase Desk Cabinet

By Donald Deskey

Located in Coral Gables, FL

This very rare American art deco bookcase was designed ca. 1935 by Donald Deskey (1894 – 1989) for the Widdicomb Furniture Company of Grand Rapids, Michigan.

Category

20th Century American Bookcases

Materials

Lacquer

Donald Deskey for AMODEC American Art Deco Bedroom Set

Unavailable

Donald Deskey for AMODEC American Art Deco Bedroom Set

By Donald Deskey, Amodec

Located in Coral Gables, FL

Donald Deskey (1894-1989) designed this bedroom set in 1931 for AMODEC (American Modern Decoration), a company he founded. The line was produced for him by the Thomasville Chair Comp...

Pair of Streamline Art Deco Machine Age End Tables in Manner of Donald Deskey

Unavailable

H 21 in W 36 in D 15 in

Pair of Streamline Art Deco Machine Age End Tables in Manner of Donald Deskey

By Donald Deskey

Located in Dallas, TX

Versatile bookend-matched pieces; can be placed on either side of sofa or bed, or placed together as 6' wide bookcase or entertainment unit. Finished on all sides, including back, f...

Amazing Modernist Donald Deskey U Design Nickeled Bronze/Steel Console

Unavailable

H 24 in W 54 in D 30 in

Amazing Modernist Donald Deskey U Design Nickeled Bronze/Steel Console

By Donald Deskey

Located in Mount Penn, PA

Great Modernist Design Flat band U-shaped console table with Clear Glass Top made by Iconic NYC Radio City Music Hall Interior Art Deco Designer Donald Deskey. Raised upon Rectangu...

Mid Century Modern/Deco Cerused Wood Desk with Brass Pulls

Unavailable

Mid Century Modern/Deco Cerused Wood Desk with Brass Pulls

By Donald Deskey

Located in Canaan, CT

This is a great desk for an apartment. Great Deco style to it. Not too big, not too small. File drawers are perfect for those old fasioned paper important documents. Finished al...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Art Deco Desks

Materials

Brass

1930s French Art Deco Case with Time Projector Feature, Chrome & Bakelite

Unavailable

H 7 in Dm 5 in

1930s French Art Deco Case with Time Projector Feature, Chrome & Bakelite

By Donald Deskey, Jacques Adnet

Located in Bremen, DE

Extremely rare French Art Deco chrome and Bakelite case with internal light which by means of an internal mirror project the reflection of the clock´s dial on the ceiling as a virtua...

Category

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Materials

Chrome

Elongated Octagonal Cocktail Table

Unavailable

H 17 in W 29 in D 17 in

Elongated Octagonal Cocktail Table

By Donald Deskey

Located in Bronx, NY

Small black lacquered octagonal Art Deco coffee table, with original blue glass and now also a new replacement mirror, this cocktail table has beautiful skyscraper and machine age de...

Materials

Wood

$2,865

H 35.04 in W 51.19 in D 19.69 in

Art Deco Mahogany Chest of Drawers with Parchment Handles, 1940s

Located in Montelabbate, PU

Art Deco chest of drawers in mahogany with parchment handles, 1940s.

Category

Vintage 1940s Italian Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Materials

Glass, Mahogany, Parchment Paper

Art Deco Venetian Style Wall Mirror C. 1930 - 1950's

$1,800

H 48.25 in W 60 in D 2.5 in

Art Deco Venetian Style Wall Mirror C. 1930 - 1950's

By André Marchand

Located in New York, NY

Glamorous High Style Art Deco, Hollywood Regency, Venetian style mirror in the manner of Marchand. This example features scalloped mirrored edging, and mirror trim which surrounds th...

Category

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Materials

Mirror

Vintage Swedish Art Deco Chest of Drawers, Birchwood, Circa 1920-1940

$6,700

H 26 in W 39.5 in D 17 in

Vintage Swedish Art Deco Chest of Drawers, Birchwood, Circa 1920-1940

Located in West Palm Beach, FL

A single, vintage Swedish Art Deco chest made of hand crafted polished, partly veneered Birchwood, designed and produced by AB Åsundens Möbelfabrik in good condition. The Scandinavia...

Category

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

Materials

Metal, Brass, Bronze

Orbis Round Frameless Beveled Mirror with Brass Clips, Medium

$773 / item

H 0.71 in Dm 23.63 in

Orbis Round Frameless Beveled Mirror with Brass Clips, Medium

By Alguacil & Perkoff Ltd.

Located in London, London

Vintage inspired Orbis™ round mirror frameless with a decorative elegant bevel, velvet backing and optional brass clips. Designed and handcrafted in London, UK. This mirror is fully ...

Category

2010s British Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Materials

Mirror

Paul Frankl Dresser, Brass legs, Johnson Furniture 1960s

$8,200

H 32 in W 72 in D 22 in

Paul Frankl Dresser, Brass legs, Johnson Furniture 1960s

Located in Round Rock, TX

Eight-drawer dresser designed by Paul Frankl for Johnson Furniture Company as part of his Emissary collection. The substantial case is finished in white and elevated on brass legs, w...

Category

Vintage 1960s American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

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Mahogany

Art Deco Style Orbis Bevelled Circular Frameless Mirror, Velvet Backing, Medium

$854 / item

$976

$2,750

H 3.25 in Dm 27.75 in

Art Deco Wall Mirror, Metal Frame, French Design, Circa 1940, Round

Located in Austin, TX

French mirror from the Art Deco period with a round frame circling a central round mirror. The frame is crafted with pieces of metal that has been welded together. This piece is in v...

Category

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Materials

Metal

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Deskey Art Deco For Sale on 1stDibs

With a vast inventory of beautiful furniture at 1stDibs, we’ve got just the deskey art deco you’re looking for. Frequently made of metal, wood and chrome, every deskey art deco was constructed with great care. There are many kinds of the deskey art deco you’re looking for, from those produced as long ago as the 20th Century to those made as recently as the 20th Century. A deskey art deco, designed in the Art Deco, Mid-Century Modern or Industrial style, is generally a popular piece of furniture. Donald Deskey, Widdicomb Furniture Co. and Bennett Co. each produced at least one beautiful deskey art deco that is worth considering.

How Much is a Deskey Art Deco?

A deskey art deco can differ in price owing to various characteristics — the average selling price 1stDibs is $3,475, while the lowest priced sells for $195 and the highest can go for as much as $45,000.

Questions About Deskey Art Deco

What is the history of Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMarch 25, 2024
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.
What defines Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2024
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.
What is an Art Deco lamp?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What is art deco ring?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 17, 2021
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.
When did Art Deco originate?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
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.
What was Art Deco influenced by?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 3, 2024
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.
How do I identify Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.
What is an art deco watch?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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
What is art deco jewelry?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 22, 2021
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.
What was the Art Deco movement?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertMay 30, 2024
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.
What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
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.
What is the difference between Art Deco and MCM?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 26, 2024
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.
Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 21, 2024
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.
What are the main features of Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
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.
What are the key features of Art Deco?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 25, 2019
Art Deco features bold geometric designs, clean lines and vibrant colors.
What is Art Deco style furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertAugust 15, 2019
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.
How do I identify Art Deco furniture?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
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.
Is Art Deco jewelry valuable?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 1, 2024
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.
What are Art Deco engagement rings?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertNovember 8, 2023
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.
What are art deco lamps made of?
1 Answer
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
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.

My Father Was Obsessed with This French Art Deco Tiger Lamp

The 1920s design is a thrilling combination of saturated colors, ancient motifs and modern aesthetics.

This Onyx, Diamond and Sapphire Ring Is an Art Deco Stunner

The exquisite French jewel feels as modern today as when it was created, nearly a century ago.

Eileen Gray’s Famed Cliffside Villa in the South of France Is Returned to Its Modernist Glory

After years of diligent restoration, E-1027, the designer-cum-architect’s marriage of romance and modernism, is finally complete.

A 1920s Art Deco Necklace with a Stunning Drop Emerald

The cabochon gem centerpiece and diamond-set elliptical rings makes it a marvel of Gatsby-era glamour.

Cartier: The Jeweler That Helped Define Art Deco

Cartier created some of the most iconic jewelry designs that defined this era.

Our Guide to Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco Engagement Rings

Learn about these antique jewelry styles, then choose a design that speaks to you.

Why Vintage Watches Are Making a Comeback

Men, women and the watchmakers themselves are falling for the old-fashioned charm of retro timepieces.

The Process: 5 Creators of Chic Customizable Lighting

Bespoke lighting is a hallmark of upscale interiors, and contemporary makers are increasingly ambitious in their materials and forms.

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