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

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 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

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 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 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

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 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 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 13

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.

Question 14

Was Eileen Gray Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The answer to whether Eileen Gray's designs were Art Deco depends on which piece you're considering. Gray was ever-evolving as a designer. By the early 1920s, she was creating geometric works that embodied the essence of Art Deco and the nascent modernist design movement. Some pieces, like her Bricks screen, employ the planar forms favored by Gerrit Rietveld and other De Stijl architects of the Netherlands. Others feature the tubular chrome framing used by Marcel Breuer and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who are associated with the mid-century modern design style. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Eileen Gray furniture.

Question 15

What are the main features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The main features of Art Deco are geometry-influenced shapes, bright color schemes and bold patterns. Art Deco architecture and design are both heavily influenced by the Cubism movement, which relied on the use of non-traditional angles and shapes.

Question 16

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco features bold geometric designs, clean lines and vibrant colors.

Question 17

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 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

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 20

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 21

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.

Art Deco Headboards

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Stunning Art Deco 1930 Burr Walnut Double Bed Frame Bedstead Headboard Carved

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco 1920 Light Walnut Bed Frame Bedstead Headboard Carved Cabriolet Legs

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco 1920 Flamed Mahogany Bed Frame Bedstead Headboard Carved Cabriolet Legs

Vintage 1970s North American Hollywood Regency Beds and Bed Frames

Vintage Gold Colored Art Deco King Size Brass Bed Headboard

Vintage 1980s American Post-Modern Bedroom Sets

1980s Postmodern Art Deco Revival Lighted Headboard with Magenta Illumination

Vintage 1940s American Beds and Bed Frames

Restored Streamline Art Deco Stacked Rattan Single Size Bed Frame Headboard

21st Century and Contemporary English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

The Jaipur Headboard

21st Century and Contemporary English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

The Manhattan Headboard

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

PAiR OF ART DECO CIRCA 1920 BURR WALNUT HEADBOARDS OR HEAD 7 FOOT BOARD PART SET

21st Century and Contemporary English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

The Amalfi Headboard

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Mid-Century Modern Art Deco Burl Wood Queen Size Birdseye Maple Bed Headboard

Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Spectacular Art Deco Double Bed

Early 20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

1930s Art Deco Walnut Double Bed

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

French Art Deco Double Bed

20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Harrods London King Size Black Leather Chesterfield Tufted Padded Headboard

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Giorgio Collection Upholstered King Size Bed Pleated Quilted Velvet Headboard

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Early 20th Century Art Deco Italian Walnut Double Bed, 1925

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Striking Art Deco Hexagonal Fronted Burr Walnut and ebonised Double Bed1751750

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Mid Century Italian Bed in the Art Deco Style Made in a Burr Elm Wood

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Table Lamps

Vintage Art Deco Headboard Reading Lamp by Louvre Lite. Mfg.

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Parchment Lacquered Queen Headboard

Early 20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Glamorous 1930s Art Deco Fan Shaped Bed with Integral Cabinets

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Double Bed Sunburst Headboard, c1930

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Period Bedside or Headboard Reading Light

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Vintage Original French Burl Art Deco Queen Size Headboard

21st Century and Contemporary Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Glamorous Art Deco Style Gilt Iron and Umber Silk Headboard

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Déco Headboard in Briar Walnut

Vintage 1930s Unknown Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Full Size Arched Brass Bed Frame Headboard and Footboard

2010s American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Mid-Century Modern Art Deco Hollywood Regency Green Velvet Channeled Headboard

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

1950s Italian Art Deco Mid-Century Modern Queen Bed Headboard Walnut Veneer Wood

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Nickel-Plated King-Sized Bed

20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Harrods London Silk Upholstered Padded King Size Headboard Paisley Upholstery

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Double Bed In The Iconic Half Circle, English, c1930

Mid-20th Century English Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Iconic Double Bed In A Fabulous Half Circle, English, c1930

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

French Art Deco Queen Size Inlaid Thuya Wood Bed, Attributed to Maurice Dufrène

Vintage 1980s American Mid-Century Modern Beds and Bed Frames

Queen Headboard in Brass by Milo Baughman for Design Instiute America (DIA)

Vintage 1970s American Beds and Bed Frames

Fountainbleau Art-Deco Headboard

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Art Deco Queen Headboard by American of Martinsville

21st Century and Contemporary European Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames

Powdery Pink Velvet and Art Deco Style Queen Size Headboard

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Beds and Bed Frames