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 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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 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

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 19

Why did Art Deco go out of style?

Accepted Answer

In its time, Art Deco went out of style due to shifts in trends. After World War II, designers became more interested in modernism and creating pieces with an emphasis on function and simplicity, a move away from the embellishment and adornment that characterized the Art Deco style. It's important to note that Art Deco never fully disappeared. In fact, many present-day collectors have a passion for pieces produced during the 1920s and ’30s. Shop a large selection of Art Deco furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What years are considered Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The years between 1920 and 1939 are generally considered to be the age of Art Deco. However, the name of the movement didn't arrive until 1925, when the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, France, introduced Art Deco design to the world. After the 1930s, Art Deco continued to have an impact, influencing the Streamline Moderne and mid-century modern styles. On 1stDibs, explore a large selection of Art Deco jewelry, furniture and decorative objects.

Art Deco Egypt

1930s Art Deco More Art

Raoul LachenalRaoul Lachenal Large Crackle Glaze Egyptian Blue French Baluster Ceramic Vase, Circa 1930

1930s Art Deco More Art

Raoul LachenalRaoul Lachenal Large Crackle Glaze Egyptian Blue French Baluster Ceramic Vase, Circa 1930

Early 20th Century Unknown Egyptian Revival Link Bracelets

Egyptian Revival Enamel Bracelet Art Deco Sterling Silver Antique Pharaoh

Early 20th Century Unknown Egyptian Revival Pendant Necklaces

Egyptian Revival Necklace Pharoah Goddess Lotus Antique Art Deco Silver Enamel

20th Century French Cupboards

French Art Deco 1930s Egyptian Style Cupboard

Vintage 1920s English Egyptian Revival Sterling Silver

Art Deco Sterling Silver-Gilt Egyptian-Revival Two-Handled Centerpiece

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Antique Art Deco Scarab Pendant Egyptian Revival Gablonz Gilt Metal Glass

20th Century African Moorish Bookends

Pair of Egyptian Art Deco Iron Sphinx Bookends

21st Century and Contemporary American Contemporary Cocktail Rings

Spectra Fine Jewelry AGL Certified 11.38 Carat Colombian Emerald Ring

1980s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Robin MorrisLAND OF THE PHAROAHS Signed Lithograph, Expedition, Egyptian Pyramids, Camels, 1986

Vintage 1920s German Art Deco Snuff Boxes and Tobacco Boxes

Egyptian Revival Compact/Cigarette Case, Sterling Silver Enamel, Art Deco

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Wall-mounted Sculptures

"Egyptian Water Carrier, " Large, Rare Art Deco Tile with Nude Male

20th Century French Egyptian Revival Collectible Jewelry

French Art Deco crocodile belt with an Egyptian themed cloisonn√© buckle.

Vintage 1960s Spanish Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco and Egyptian style gilded table lamp, Spain, 1960s

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco Lamp, Bronze Base, Egyptian Revival Shade, ca. 1920

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Vases

LEUNE French Art Deco Enameled Glass Gourd Vase, Papyrus Decor, Egyptian warior

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Brooches

Art Deco Turquoise Diamond Enamel 14K Gold Antique Egyptian Scarab Brooch

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Table Lamps

" Egyptian Revival Candle Lamp", Art Deco Bronze/Glass Lamp, Tiffany Studios

20th Century Unknown Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Pocket Flask Sterling Silver Enamel Egyptian Revival Camel Palm Tree

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Large Rare Art Deco Bronze Egyptian Cat Goddess Bastet Sculpture Statue, c.1930

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Decorative Bowls

"Egyptian Revival Centerpiece, " Art Deco Footed Bowl, Bronze and Stone, France

Vintage 1920s Italian Egyptian Revival Decorative Boxes

Antique Art Deco King Tut Egyptian Revival Silver Gilt Enamel Cloisonne Box 1925

Early 20th Century Unknown Egyptian Revival Pendant Necklaces

Egyptian Revival Pendant Brooch Pharaoh 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Enamel Art Deco

Vintage 1960s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Statue of an Egyptian Dancer after Chiparus A very popular subject

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Style Egyptian Belly Dancer Bronze Sculpture on Marble Base by Marius

Vintage 1920s Italian Egyptian Revival Link Bracelets

EGYPTIAN REVIVAL 1920 Italian Art Deco Mesh Bracelet In 18Kt Gold With Gemstones

Vintage 1980s Egyptian Art Deco Dangle Earrings

18K Gold Egyptian Beetle Hanging Earrings

Vintage 1930s French Paintings

"Egypt and Nubia, " Highly Important Art Deco Lacquer Panel

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Bowls

"Sailing on the Nile, " Rare Covered Art Deco Box with Egyptian Pyramids

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Vases

Pair of Egyptian Midcentury/Art Deco Style Honey Alabaster Marble Covered Vases

Mid-20th Century Unknown Egyptian Revival Figurative Sculptures

SELKET - Art Deco Gilt Bronze Egyptian Goddess on Marble Base, Mid 20th Century

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Mantel Clocks

Art Deco Gilt Bronze Marble Mantel Clock w. Sphinx Pharaohs Egyptian Revival

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Console Tables

4 Consoles Style Art Deco 1930, egyptian motif, France, Bronze and glass

Vintage 1910s Czech Art Deco Vases

Pair of two reversible vases jugs, ceramic, Egypt Art Deco, 1915 Amphora Czech R

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Vases

Egyptian Blue French Art Pottery Vase by Lachenal

Vintage 1940s American Mid-Century Modern Wall-mounted Sculptures

"Bearded Egyptian, " Vivid and Unique Mosaic Panel, Art Deco Mid-Century

1990s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Bronze, Egyptian Girl with Water Jug, Large in the Style of F.Ghilmany

Vintage 1940s Unknown Art Deco Link Bracelets

Wide Egyptian Vermeil Filigree Cuff

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Serving Pieces

Egyptian Revival Silver Salt Cellars

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Raoul Lachenal
Raoul Lachenal Large Crackle Glaze Egyptian Blue French Baluster Ceramic Vase, Circa 1930

Raoul Lachenal
Raoul Lachenal Large Crackle Glaze Egyptian Blue French Baluster Ceramic Vase, Circa 1930

Robin Morris
LAND OF THE PHAROAHS Signed Lithograph, Expedition, Egyptian Pyramids, Camels, 1986