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 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 9

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 10

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 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.

Art Deco Berlin

2010s German Art Deco Sideboards

Modernist Four Door Sideboard, Veneered Wood, Chrome Plated Metal, Customizable

2010s German Art Deco Ottomans and Poufs

Customizable Modernist Stool, Glossy Lacquered Wood, Fabric / Leather Upholstery

Vintage 1940s Czech Art Deco Armchairs

Bespoke Armchairs By J. Halabala, Cream Leather Upholstery, Glossy Wood Finish

1990s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Karl Springer Style Mark V Parchment Macassar Ebony Gilt Iron Coffee Table

Early 20th Century Ukrainian Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Early 20th Century Cold-Painted Bronze Entitled "Harem Lamp" by Bruno Zach

Vintage 1980s German Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Scenographic Three-Tier Chandelier, Opal Acrylic Glass, Silver Metal, circa 1980

Early 20th Century German Bauhaus Lounge Chairs

Erich Dieckmann Bauhaus Lounge Chair

Early 20th Century German Bauhaus Lounge Chairs

Erich Dieckmann Bauhaus Lounge Chairs, a Pair

1930s Art Deco More Prints

Original Vintage Travel Poster Germany Berlin Art Deco Dzubas Deutschland, 1930s

1930s Art Deco More Prints

Jupp WiertzOriginal Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Berlin Germany Jupp Wiertz Art Deco, 1930s

Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Art Deco Powder Box, Berlin 1930

Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Club Chairs

Clubssesel Art Déco in Red Leather, Germany, Berlin

Vintage 1930s Czech Art Deco Sofas

Original Art Deco tubular steel streamline sofa cushion Design by ZEITLOS-BERLIN

Vintage 1930s Czech Streamlined Moderne Wardrobes and Armoires

1930s original Art Deco Streamline wardrobe perfecty restored by ZEITLOS-BERLIN

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Brooches

Elegant Art Deco Parisienne Jewel of the 1920s

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco Picture Frames

Ernst Schneider 1925 Photo nude "Music hall " Berlin

Mid-20th Century German Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Porcelain Figurine Depicting a Nude with a Koi by Suze Muller for KPM, Berlin

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Carts and Bar Carts

Elegant French tubular steel Art Deco bar card from the 1930s

Vintage 1930s Czech Streamlined Moderne Wardrobes and Armoires

1930s modernist wardrobe by Rudolf Vichr, lacquered in a Miami Art Deco colour

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

1940s Iron and Marble-Top Coffee Table

Early 20th Century Dutch Art Nouveau Clocks

Rozenburg Pottery Holland, W.P. Hartgring Art Nouveau Mantle Clock, 1904

Antique Mid-19th Century Art Deco Armchairs

19th Century Biedermeier Leather Chairs

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco Credenzas

Caucasian Walnut Sideboard by Bruno Paul

Vintage 1940s German Art Deco Ceramics

Art Deco Ceramik Vase Otto Douglas Douglas-Hill "Kunst Studio", Berlin

2010s German Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Sunset 224b 284a - Wall Mirrors, Design Sculpture by Andreas Berlin

2010s German Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Set Cadahe - Wall Mirrors with Plexiglass, Design Sculpture by Andreas Berlin

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco More Dining and Entertaining

Art Deco Punch Bowl, B.E.P.W.F., Berlin 1920s

Vintage 1930s German Art Deco Tea Sets

KPM, Berlin, Seven Art Deco Teacups with Saucers in Hand Painted Porcelain

Early 20th Century German Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Art Deco German 800 Silver Dresser Box by Körner Proll Silversmiths of Berlin

Vintage 1980s German Mid-Century Modern Vases

Art Deco Royal Porcelain Factory Berlin White Carved Vase, 1934

Vintage 1930s German Posters

Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Germany Berlin Night Art Deco Design

Vintage 1930s German Posters

Original Vintage Art Deco RDV State Railway Poster Ft. Berlin Germany Allemagne

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Art Deco Round Marble Cast Iron Dining Table

1990s German Art Deco Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Pair of Cachepots KPM Berlin

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Trapeze Mirror frame by Paul Kiss, Wrought Iron, Art Deco, 1930

2010s German Art Deco Side Tables

Can You Dig It? , Side Table

2010s German Art Deco Side Tables

Return To The Moon, Side Table

2010s German Art Deco Side Tables

Angels Have Gone, Side Table

2010s German Art Deco Side Tables

Shut Your Eyes, Side Table

2010s German Art Deco Side Tables

Jupp Wiertz
Original Vintage Travel Advertising Poster Berlin Germany Jupp Wiertz Art Deco, 1930s