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 Gouache

1920s Art Deco Animal Drawings and Watercolors

Gaston SuisseArt deco mixed media on paper - Panther in a forest of bamboos by Gaston Suisse, 1926

1920s Surrealist Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Nura UlreichKitten and Pet (Woman Artist, Modernism, New York, framed, art deco, cat), 1928

1950s Art Deco More Art

ErtéLe Pigeon, 1959

1940s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Nura Ulreich Tom, Dick and Harry , Art Student s League, Salon d Automne, Paris, 1943

1930s Art Deco Paintings

José de ZamoraMermaid Bodysuit Costume Illustration by José de Zamora, circa 1930

1980s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Charles LevierSur la Rue, 1980

1920s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Emilio VilaLady with a Flower

1930s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Arthur LittFabric Design, c. 1930

1950s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

ErtéJeu d enfer, mannequin, 1959

1950s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

ErtéGINETTE (ORIGINAL GOUCHE), circa 1950s

1920s Art Deco Landscape Paintings

Georges LepapeUntitled Watercolor, 1920

1930s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Gustave Kaitz 1Diana The Huntress on Horseback, circa 1930s

1930s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Gustave Kaitz 1Scheherazade, circa 1930

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Prints

"Bacchanale, " Early Art Deco Pochoir by George Barbier, 1923

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Paintings

"Athena and Her Acolytes, " Extraordinary Art Deco Painting, 1925

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Drawings

"Nocturnal Nude, " Very Fine Art Deco Drawing by Nunes, 1931

1930s Art Deco Interior Paintings

French Stereo Design Watercolor, 1930, 1930

Vintage 1940s Hungarian Art Deco Paintings

"The Mermaid s Embrace, " Undersea Art Deco Masterpiece Painting by Helbing, 1948

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Paintings

"Headlock, " Art Deco Painting with Wrestling Theme by Littlefield, 1941

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Strong Man, " Art Deco Painting Influenced by Constructivism and Cubism

1920s Art Deco Figurative Paintings

Lingerie illustration for 1929 Au Printemps Catalog., 1929

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Diana Keeping Watch, " Important Art Deco Mural Study by Dunbar Beck

1920s Art Deco Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

Max UsadelCapri Italy Mediterranean Italian Island landscape painting German Swiss Usadel, ca 1920

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Timur Imu, " Exotic Asian Fantasy, Art Deco Painting with Male Nudes

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"The Four Seasons, " Brilliant Art Deco Painting with Nudes by Max Howard

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanDusk over Rolling Hills, Pastel Hue Primary Tones, Red, Yellow, Blue, Bauhaus, 2023

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanEvening on Lavanda Fields, Bauhaus Pattern, Abstract Landscape, Red, Blue, Pink, 2023

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanAmalfi Parasol Triptych, Abstract Fabric Pattern in Red, Yellow Mid-Tones Grid, 2023

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanStained Glass Study in Pastel Hues, Bauhaus Pattern Diptych, Warm Yellow, Pink, 2023

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Jungle, " Fabulous Art Deco Painting of African Safari Hunter by Covarrubias

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanPastel Tiles Combo Grid, Triangle Tiles Pattern Diptych, Pink and Green Bauhaus, 2022

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapillons

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapillons, 1929

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapilloins, 1929

1920s Art Deco Drawings and Watercolor Paintings

ErtéOrnements d Oreilles, 1929 (#3.542), c. 1933-1937

2010s Art Deco Abstract Paintings

Natalia RomanAbstract Triptych, Cold Tones Modern Painting, Organic Brushstrokes Blue Gray, 2020

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapillons, 1929

1930s Art Deco Portrait Drawings and Watercolors

Jean-Frédéric CanepaThe Archer, Circa 1930s

Early 20th Century Art Deco Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

José de ZamoraA costume for a review

1940s Art Deco Figurative Drawings and Watercolors

Gaston Suisse
Art deco mixed media on paper - Panther in a forest of bamboos by Gaston Suisse, 1926

Nura Ulreich
Kitten and Pet (Woman Artist, Modernism, New York, framed, art deco, cat), 1928

Erté
Le Pigeon, 1959

Nura Ulreich
Tom, Dick and Harry , Art Student s League, Salon d Automne, Paris, 1943

José de Zamora
Mermaid Bodysuit Costume Illustration by José de Zamora, circa 1930

Charles Levier
Sur la Rue, 1980

Emilio Vila
Lady with a Flower

Arthur Litt
Fabric Design, c. 1930

Erté
Jeu d enfer, mannequin, 1959

Erté
GINETTE (ORIGINAL GOUCHE), circa 1950s

Georges Lepape
Untitled Watercolor, 1920

Gustave Kaitz 1
Diana The Huntress on Horseback, circa 1930s

Gustave Kaitz 1
Scheherazade, circa 1930

Max Usadel
Capri Italy Mediterranean Italian Island landscape painting German Swiss Usadel, ca 1920

Natalia Roman
Dusk over Rolling Hills, Pastel Hue Primary Tones, Red, Yellow, Blue, Bauhaus, 2023

Natalia Roman
Evening on Lavanda Fields, Bauhaus Pattern, Abstract Landscape, Red, Blue, Pink, 2023

Natalia Roman
Amalfi Parasol Triptych, Abstract Fabric Pattern in Red, Yellow Mid-Tones Grid, 2023

Natalia Roman
Stained Glass Study in Pastel Hues, Bauhaus Pattern Diptych, Warm Yellow, Pink, 2023

Natalia Roman
Pastel Tiles Combo Grid, Triangle Tiles Pattern Diptych, Pink and Green Bauhaus, 2022

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papillons

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papillons, 1929

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papilloins, 1929

Erté
Ornements d Oreilles, 1929 (#3.542), c. 1933-1937

Natalia Roman
Abstract Triptych, Cold Tones Modern Painting, Organic Brushstrokes Blue Gray, 2020

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papillons, 1929

Jean-Frédéric Canepa
The Archer, Circa 1930s

José de Zamora
A costume for a review

Erté
Les Mamelles de Tirésias - Drawing by Erté - 1948, 1948

Rudolf Bauer
The Artist and His Wife, c. 1920

Erté
La Prêtresse by Erté, 1919

Erté
Elegant - Drawing by Erté - Mid-20th Century, Mid-20th Century

Erté
Danseuse à l Écharpe - Mixed Media by Erté - 1940s, 1940s

Serge Ferat (Sergei Nicolaevitch Comte de Jastrebtsov)
Arlequin, 1930