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 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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 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 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 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

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Art Deco Decor

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Swedish Grace Mirror in pewter with brass star decor, Guldsmedsaktiebolaget/GAB.

Vintage 1940s Japanese Art Deco Vases

Large Japanese Porcelain Vase, Decor of Flowers and Birds, Circa 1940s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco 4-Arm Chandelier in Glass Brass, Sweden, 1940s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Art Deco Machine Age Aluminum Silvered Crest Lacquered Box w/ Bakelite Handles

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Mantel Clocks

French Art Deco Varigated Marble Bronze and Candle Stick Mantle Clock Set

1930s Art Deco Landscape Prints

Maurice ToussaintOriginal La Bretagne Pittoresque Lannion, Chemins de Fer vintage poster on linen, c. 1930

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Vintage Sugared Treats Dish, French, Brass, Glass, Small Pot, Butterfly, Decor

Mid-20th Century Belgian Art Deco Vases

Large Ceramic Vase with Fish Decor, Belgium, circa 1930s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Abstract Sculptures

20th Century French Pair of Small Terra Cotta Obelisks - Vintage Décor

2010s Art Deco Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Christina SprowlSofisticada, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021

2010s Art Deco Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Christina SprowlOmbros, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021

2010s Art Deco Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Christina SprowlAcima, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021

Mid-20th Century Danish Art Deco Benches

20th Century Art Deco Storage Bench in Nutwood, By a Danish Cabinetmaker

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Art Deco Side Tables

Art Deco, Organic Side Table / Stool in Stained Solid Wood, 1940s

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Table Lamps

Table lamp in brass with decor of lion, Swedish Grace 1920/30s

Mid-20th Century Scandinavian Art Deco Side Tables

Danish Art Deco, Octagon Side Table in Birch With Intarsia Top, 1940s

Vintage 1950s Belgian Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Vintage Ducks Figurines Brass Mid-Century Modern Home Decor, Set, Belgium, 1960s

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Platters and Serveware

Sune Bäckström, solid bronze platter with decor of goddess Diana, Swedish Grace

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Table Lamps

Sculptural table lamp in alabaster with decor of fish/dolphin, Swedish Grace

2010s American Art Deco Pedestals

Crystal and Branch Tabletop Decor Luxury Modern Home - Office Decorative Accent

Early 20th Century Hungarian Art Deco Table Lamps

Pair of Herend Hand-painted Art Deco Porcelain Table Lamps

Early 20th Century Danish Art Deco Vases

Just Andersen Art Deco Patinated Disco Metal Vase, Denmark, 1930s, Model D20

Early 20th Century Danish Art Deco Armchairs

Pair of Danish Modern Art Deco Lounge Chairs in Lambswool and Birch, 1930s

1990s British Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Luxurious Art Deco-Inspired R Y Augousti Teal Shagreen Long Desk Box

Mid-20th Century Chinese Art Deco Vases

Large Vintage White and Blue Vase, Chinese, Ceramic, Decor, Flower Baluster

Vintage 1940s Argentine Art Deco Bottles

1940s Lourdes Siphon Seltzer Soda Bottle Collection Colorful Glass Vintage Decor

Antique Early 1900s Belgian Art Deco Abstract Sculptures

Decorative Bicycle SCULPTURE, Forged CYCLE Home Decor Antique 3-Wheeler

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Ceramics

Longwy for Atelier Primavera Ceramic Tray or Plaque, Art Deco France 1920-1936

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

20th Century French Bronze Polar Bear Sculpture - Vintage Décor by Pierre Chenet

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Toys and Dolls

20th Century French Vintage Dark Red Wooden Truck Model, Table Décor

Antique Late 19th Century Spanish Art Deco Sterling Silver

Antique Silver BOX Decorative Box, Sterling Silver Jewllery Box Home Decor

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Floor Lamps

Art Deco Machine Age Polished Chrome Floor Lamp w/ Scalloped Metal Mesh Shade

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Cigar Boxes and Humidors

Elegant Cigar/Cigarette Box in Elm from the 1930s with decorative intarsia decor

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Mid-Century Royal Haeger Shell-Form Lamp, Sculptural Coastal Decor, Vintage-Tags

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Monumental Art Deco Glass and Nickel Wall Sconces

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Indian Rugs

Contemporary Art Deco Design Blue, Grey Wool Rug by Doris Leslie Blau

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of French Art Deco Brass Twin Arm Sconces, ca 1930

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

French Art Deco Brass Twin Arm Sconces, a Pair, ca. 1930

Vintage 1930s Danish Art Deco Candelabras

Large Modern CANDLE STICK, 6 Candle Holders Home Decor, Candlebras

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Game Tables

Maurice Toussaint
Original La Bretagne Pittoresque Lannion, Chemins de Fer vintage poster on linen, c. 1930

Christina Sprowl
Sofisticada, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021

Christina Sprowl
Ombros, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021

Christina Sprowl
Acima, Drawing, Pen Ink on Watercolor Paper, 2021