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 decorative art?

Accepted Answer

Decorative art is concerned with the design of objects that are both beautiful and functional, like ceramic pots.

Question 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

What is the difference between fine art and decorative art?

Accepted Answer

Fine art denotes work of aesthetic value but no functional purpose, whereas decorative art is both visually appealing and functional.

Question 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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.

Question 18

What era was Art Deco rings?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco rings are from the era of the 1920s and 1930s. While Art Deco began to emerge a bit earlier than that, the style truly gained momentum after the end of World War I. Rings from the time period often feature geometric motifs, bold colors and designs that were influenced by Cubism, Futurism and other movements in visual art. Diamonds were exceptionally popular, while accent gems such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies brought vivid color to engagement rings and added sophistication and glamour. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Art Deco rings.

Question 19

What is the difference between Memphis and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Memphis and Art Deco is that the terms refer to two different design styles. Art Deco emerged in the 1920s, and its pieces often flaunt bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs and ornamental details, such as mirrored finishes and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Named after the Memphis Group, which formed in 1980, Memphis design emphasizes freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors. Some people describe it as Art Deco meets Pop art. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Art Deco and Memphis design furniture.

Question 20

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Art Deco Decor

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs

Kaare Klint, a Pair of Safari Chairs in Ash Leather, Rud. Rasmussen, 1960s

2010s Italian Screens and Room Dividers

S3 Screen

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Cassina Ficupala Floor Lamp

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Cassina Ficupala Floor Lamp

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Cassina Ficupala Floor Lamp

2010s Italian Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Cassina Ficupala Floor Lamp

Antique Late 18th Century Danish Baroque Cabinets

18th Century, Antique Black Painted Cabinet by a Danish Cabinetmaker, Baroque

21st Century and Contemporary Gustavian Decorative Baskets

Hollywood Regency Style Metal Waste Basket with Gilt Accent

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Danish Mid Century Modern, A Classic Chest of Drawers in Oregon Pine, 1950s

Antique Early 19th Century Italian Baroque Desks and Writing Tables

Antique Italian Center / Desk Table, Walnut Marble, Naples, 19th Century

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Side Tables

Side Table in Teak Glass, Danish Mid Century Modern, Made in the 1960s

21st Century and Contemporary Neoclassical Decorative Baskets

Large Gustavian Style Gilt Metal Accent Waste Basket

21st Century and Contemporary Hollywood Regency Decorative Baskets

Small Neoclassical Gold Gilt Accent Metal Waste Basket

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Floor Lamps

Marian Zawadzki "Oryx" Unique Floor Lamp, Tilgmans Ceramics, Sweden, Dated 1963

Early 20th Century Danish Baroque Side Tables

Danish Side Table / Pedestal with Finely Carved Legs, Early 20th Century

21st Century and Contemporary Hollywood Regency Decorative Baskets

Swedish Style Gilt Edge Metal Wastebasket w/ rings

Early 20th Century Danish Jugendstil Cabinets

Martin Nyrop Cabinet by Rud. Rasmussen in Teak, Danish Modern, 1900-1920

Early 20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Bookcases

Martin Nyrop Bookcase by Rud. Rasmussen in Oregon Pine, Danish Modern, 1905

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Henning Kjærnulf, Armchair in Oak Velvet, Model "Kurul", Mid Century, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Floor Lamps

Marian Zawadzki "Oryx" Unique Floor Lamp, Tilgmans Ceramics, Sweden, Dated 1960

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Armchairs

Henning Kjærnulf, Armchair in Oak Lambswool, Model "Kurul", Mid Century, 1960s

Antique Late 19th Century Spanish Baroque Dining Room Tables

Antique Spanish Brutalist Table in Solid Oak Wrought Iron, 19th Century

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Dressers

Burled Maple and Brass Long Dresser after Heywood Wakefield

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

A Pair of Danish Mid Century Modern Lounge Chairs in Beech Lambswool, 1940s

Early 20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Armchairs

Carved Monk Chair in Solid Oak, Wabi Sabi, Swedish, Early 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Danish Dining Room Tables

Scandinavian Modern, Table in Beech With Club Legs, Arnold Madsen, Made in 1940s

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Nesting Tables and Stacking ...

Severin Hansen, Nesting Tables in Brazilian Rosewood, Danish Mid Century, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Francesco Lucianetti, Lounge Chairs in Leather Elm, Italian Modern, 1960s

Early 20th Century Norwegian Scandinavian Modern Armchairs

Set of 4 Norwegian Modern Armchairs by Krogenæs, Solid Pine, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Lounge Chairs

Danish Mid Century Modern, Pair of Armchairs in Beech and Original Fabric, 1960s

Early 20th Century Scandinavian Scandinavian Modern Armchairs

Decorative White Painted Armchair, Wabi Sabi, Early 20th Century

Late 20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Set of 4 Vintage Blue Glass Pendants, Made by Design Light A/S, Denmark, 1990s

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofa Tables

Danish Modern, Sofa Table in Steel Ceramic Tiles, Made by Sallingbroe, 1970s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Benches

Mid Century Modern Bench in Pine, Made by a Swedish Cabinetmaker in the 1970s

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Sofas

Arne Vodder 2-Seater Sofa, Model Fd 161, Reupholstered in Bouclé, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Danish Mid-Century Modern Dining Room Tables

Jørgen Bækmark, Dining Table in Oak Cork, Danish Mid Century Modern, 1960s

Early 20th Century French Louis XIII Desks and Writing Tables

French Sculptural Baroque Style Desk in Stained Pine, Early 20th Century

Mid-20th Century Danish Baroque Dining Room Chairs

Set of 4 Highback "Razorblade" Chairs in Oak Bouclé, Henning Kjærnulf, 1960s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Swedish Mid Century Modern, Ceiling / Flush Scone in Linen, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Danish Scandinavian Modern Chandeliers and Pendants