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

Who were the key Art Deco designers?

Accepted Answer

Among the key Art Deco designers were Tamara de Lempicka, Erté, René Lalique, Le Corbusier, Jean Dunand, Léon Bakst, Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, Sonia Delaunay, Georges Lepape and Jean Després.

Question 2

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 3

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 4

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 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 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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 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

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 15

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 16

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 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.

Art Deco Key

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Brooches

Trifari Retro Sterling Vermeil Jeweled Key Brooch, Alfred Philippe

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Decorative Bowls

Art Deco elephant coupe vide poche, France 1930s

2010s Italian Art Deco Drop Necklaces

Chanel Silver CC Detachable Crystal Pendant Ribbon Key Chain Necklace

Early 20th Century English Art Deco Barware

English Art Deco Twin Bottle Tantalus by George Betjemann

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Stud Earrings

Versace Logo Greek Key Engraved Greca Round Shining Crystal Pierced Earrings

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco More Necklaces

Lock Key Diamond Necklace in 14k Solid Gold (Certified)

2010s South African Art Deco Armchairs

Keys Chair in Dedar Adamo Eva by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

21st Century and Contemporary Indian Art Deco Charm Bracelets

Lock Key Diamond Bracelet in 14k Solid Gold (Certified)

Antique 1850s British Art Deco Pocket Watches

M.J Tobias Oversized Silver Key Wind Pocket Watch circa 1840 s

2010s South African Art Deco Daybeds

Keys Daybed in Dedar Adamo Eva by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

2010s South African Art Deco Stools

Keys Stool in Dedar Adamo Eva by Kevin Frankental for Lemon

20th Century English Art Deco Decorative Boxes

SiGNED VISCOUNT DAVID LINLEY ARCHITECTURAL PERSPECTIVE KEY SAFE WALL CABINET

2010s Indian Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

18K Solid Gold Handmade Key Charm Pendant gold pendant Minimalist Necklaces

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

1970s Vintage in Manner of Mastercraft Greek Key Brass and Glass Coffee Table

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Platters and Serveware

Tiffany Studios New York Greek Key Bronze Footed Charger Plate or Tray

2010s Indian Art Deco Charm Bracelets

1 Pc Pave Diamond Lock Key Charm Pendant 925 Sterling Silver Diamond Findings.

2010s Indian Art Deco Dangle Earrings

Pave Diamond Key Earrings 14k Gold&925 Silver Earring For Birthdays

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Side Tables

Iron Gueridon Table with Glass Top Etched with Greek Key Motif, c. 1930

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Lejan Art Deco Crackle Glaze Ceramic Ship Sculpture at Orchies s, France, 1920

21st Century and Contemporary American Art Deco Console Tables

Custom Modernist Black Lacquer Console with Greek Key Detailing

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Sterling Silver

Pair of Antique Silver Greek Key Pattern Napkin Rings. English. Dated 1930

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Monkey Bronze Sculture With Umbreller Jewelry Dish / Keys / Coins Plate. France

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Vases

Antique 1930 Rookwood 2135 Turquoise Greek Key 50 Year Anniversary Vase 6"

2010s Hong Kong Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Certified Padparadscha Sapphire and Diamond Key Pendant in 18K White Gold

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Brooches

1930s Art Deco Platinum Brooch Carved Jadeite Jade Old European Cut Diamonds

20th Century French Art Deco Trunks and Luggage

Suitcase Vellum Original Green Cover Nickel Fittings Locks Key x Long

Vintage 1980s American Art Deco Club Chairs

1980s Ralph Lauren Style Leather Mohair Gilt Greek Key Wood Library Chair

20th Century English Art Deco Inkwells

Silver Plate Ink Well with Gallery, Sphinx and Greek Key Details

Early 20th Century Unknown Art Deco Games

Rare Vintage J.E. Stevens Jewel Bank Cast Iron Safe (With Key)

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Key Pendant Necklace 18k White Gold Pink Enamel 162 Diamonds 1.90ct Amethyst

Early 2000s European Art Deco Footstools

Pair of Mid Century Modern Style GreeK Key Steel and Cowhide Foot Stools

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Musical Instruments

1920s J.C. Deagan 725 Marimba Model B, Rosewood Keys, 3 Octave

Late 20th Century Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Pair of Venetian Key Hole Shaped Beveled Glass Mirrors Hollywood Regency Style

2010s Indian Art Deco Stud Earrings

Lock key stud earring 14K yellow gold diamond ear stud fine luxury jewelry gift

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Ceiling Lamp with Bronze Mount and Glass Shades, France 1920s

Early 20th Century English Dining Room Chairs

Set of 6 Art Deco Walnut Dining Chairs

20th Century British Art Deco Barware

20th Century English Solid Silver Glass Spirit Decanter with Lock Key c.1927

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Pendant Necklaces

Key Pendant 18k White Gold Pink Enamel 162 Diamonds total 1.90 ct Amethyst

20th Century British Art Deco Barware

20th Century English Solid Silver Glass Spirit Decanter with Lock Key c.1928

20th Century British Art Deco Barware