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

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 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

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Solid Art Deco

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Flush Mount

Solid Art Deco Ceiling Lamp with Original Glass Shade Vienna around 1920s

Vintage 1920s Furniture

Art Deco screen made of solid wood

Mid-20th Century Burmese Art Deco Furniture

Large Vintage Carved Chest, Burmese, Solid Teak Decorative Trunk, Art Deco, 1930

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Chairs

Classic American Bentwood and Iron Folding Chairs 1930s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Desk Accessories

Art Deco 18 Karat Solid Yellow Gold Wahl Eversharp Mechanical Pencil

Early 20th Century French Platters and Serveware

CARDEILHAC – Square dish in solid silver ART DECO period

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco Boxes and Cases

Germany 1925 Art Deco Guilloche Wavy Box In Solid .935 Sterling Silver And Gilt

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Decorative Bowls

French art deco bowl solid silver

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Boxes and Cases

1930s Art -Deco GS / SG Cigarette Tobacco case box solid 925 Silver 18K/151 gr

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Buffets

Art Deco Bleached Solid Oak Credenza, 1940s

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Buffets

Art Deco Solid Oak Credenza, France, 1940s

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Buffets

Art Deco Solid Oak Sideboard, France, 1940s

1920s Art Deco Sculptures

Sirio TofanariLarge, Solid Bronze Falcon Sculpture, circa 1925

Early 20th Century Spanish Art Deco Barware

Spanish Art Deco Solid Silver Cocktail Shaker

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Buffets

Art Deco Solid Oak Credenza, France, 1940s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Credenzas

Solid Oak Art Deco Sideboard, 1940, France

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Table Mirrors

Swedish Art Deco Solid Iron Table Mirror

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Magazine Racks and Stands

Art Deco Moderne Magazine Solid Brass Rack

Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Floor Lamps

Art Deco Floor Lamp in Solid Walnut

Vintage 1930s Unknown Art Deco Bookends

Art Deco Solid Bronze Hagenauer Style Sculptural Bookends

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Retro Bracelets

36ct Solid Platinum Bracelet Art Deco Vintage Unique

Early 20th Century French Tea Sets

Jean E Puiforcat 4-Piece Solid Silver Art Deco Tea and Coffee Set

Vintage 1920s Dutch Art Deco Coat Racks and Stands

Art Deco Solid Oak Wall Coatrack, Dutch, 1925

Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Bookcases

English Art Deco 1920's Solid Oak Bookcase

20th Century American Art Deco More Desk Accessories

Pair of Solid Maple Wood Art Deco Bookends

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Style Square Wine Cooler Solid Silver

Vintage 1940s Belgian Art Deco Cupboards

Belgian late Art Deco cabinet in solid oak

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Link Bracelets

FRENCH 1940 Art Deco Retro Geometric Tank Bracelet In Solid 18Kt Solid Gold

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Benches

Art Deco bench in solid wood, France ca. 1940

Antique 1830s Italian Art Deco Credenzas

Art Decò Sideboard in Solid Lacquered & Painted Mahogany

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Fireplaces and Mantels

Solid Copper Art Deco Fireplace Poker and Tongs Tools

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Sports Equipment and Memorabilia

Art Deco Solid Silver Cufflinks, Enameled with Hunting Dogs

Vintage 1920s Austrian Art Deco Armchairs

Art Deco Armchairs done in solid walnut, Austria 1920s

21st Century and Contemporary Moroccan Art Deco Doors and Gates

Engraved solid brass door handle from Art Deco collection

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Sofa Tables

Art Deco Solid Oak & Ebonized Occasional Table, English, c1930

Early 20th Century European Art Deco Sofas

Art Deco Sofa in Solid Wood and Tapisserie 1930s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Sterling Silver

Goldsmith Tetard - Art Deco Solid Silver Tray Circa 1930

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Buffets

Gaston Poisson Art Deco Sideboard – Handcrafted Solid Oak Masterpiece

Vintage 1970s European Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Style Statue Elegant Nude Woman Solid Brass

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Sterling Silver

Sirio Tofanari
Large, Solid Bronze Falcon Sculpture, circa 1925