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

Is a lithograph an original work of art?

Accepted Answer

No, a lithograph isn’t technically an original work of art. It’s a type of print, but a lithograph is generally more prized than a common print because each lithograph is hand-made by the artist through the process of lithography. They’re usually made in much lower quantities than prints, which are easier to produce on a large scale. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of lithographs from various artists.

Question 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 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 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 10

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 11

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 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

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 20

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.

Art Deco Lithograph

1990s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER EXPOSITION INTERNATIONALE, 1990-1998

1990s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER L EAU, 1990-1998

1990s Art Deco Animal Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER L OIE D OR, 1990

1990s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER LE PETIT DAUPHINOIS, 1990-1998

1990s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER JOB, 1990-1998

1930s Art Deco Prints and Multiples

Circa 1930 Original poster advertising the Weref tea, Circa 1930

1930s Art Deco Prints and Multiples

Adolphe Jean-Marie (AM) CassandreLys Chantilly - Ville de Parc et de Sports Circa 1930 Original Poster, Circa 1930

1950s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Davide Campari (later edition) vintage Italian liquor poster, 1950

1920s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Jean Cocteau le mystère de Jean l Oiseleur, 1924

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapillons, 1929

1960s Art Deco Figurative Prints

ErtéSymphony in Black 1967, Erté, 1967

1990s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Punk PostersORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER LE DAURE , 1990-1998

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyInsectes, 1924

1950s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Bernard VillemotOriginal Espana "Spain" vintage Villemot travel poster, c. 1953

1950s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Paul ColinTransatlantique French Line 1855 - 1955 original French vintage poster, 1955

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Eugene Alain SeguyPapillons, 1929

1940s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Marcel VertèsCabaret Dancer (ala Toulouse Lautrec)

1940s Art Deco Animal Prints

Marcel VertèsCircus Lovers (Horse Dog)

1940s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Original Champagne 2me Rallye Aerien ( Aérien) vintage poster., 1949

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

Paul JouveStanding Panther, Circa 1920

1930s Art Deco Prints and Multiples

Circa 1930 original poster for The Delage car French automotive advertising, Circa 1930

1920s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Jean l Oiseleur N° 12

1920s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Jean l Oiseleur N° 4 ., 1924

1920s Art Deco Portrait Prints

Jean l Oiseleur . N° 16 . Travesti . Barbette

1930s Art Deco Portrait Prints

henry le monnierOriginal Le Vetement "Superchic" pour L Homme vintage French poster, 1931

1920s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Original "Somms" tous sports vintage soccer poster, c . 1920s

1930s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Arthur Louis HelwigBallerinas, 1935

1930s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Roger PerotCycles Peugeot, 1931

1890s Art Deco Figurative Prints

The Chap Book, 1898

Late 20th Century Art Deco Landscape Prints

Denis Paul NoyerLes Deux Magots Litho signed and Numbered by Denis Paul Noyer

1930s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Robert Wolff (a.k.a. Robys)Original Chocolats Confiserie vintage French antique chocolate poster, c. 1935

1930s Art Deco More Prints

Francois SerracchianiCarnival de Nice 1938 original vintage poster, 1938

1930s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Jose MorellOriginal vintage travel poster to Spain, English version, c. 1940

1930s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Joseph de la NeziereJoseph de la NÉZIÈRE (1873-1944), poster for the Colonial Exhibition, Paris, 1931

1980s Art Deco Figurative Prints

Nina Rose“Longchamp”, Circa 1980

1960s Art Deco More Prints

Jean Cocteau" les nereïdes " .pastel lithography, 1962

1920s Art Deco Animal Prints

The End of a Perfect Day. George Studdy Bonzo puppy bull dog print, 1922

1950s Art Deco Landscape Prints

Bernard VillemotOriginal SNCF Vitesse Confort Exactitude vintage French railroad poster, 1951, 1951

Late 19th Century Art Deco Animal Prints

Tropical Fruit. German antique natural history botanical print, 1895

Late 19th Century Art Deco Animal Prints

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER EXPOSITION INTERNATIONALE, 1990-1998

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER L EAU, 1990-1998

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER L OIE D OR, 1990

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER LE PETIT DAUPHINOIS, 1990-1998

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER JOB, 1990-1998

Adolphe Jean-Marie (AM) Cassandre
Lys Chantilly - Ville de Parc et de Sports Circa 1930 Original Poster, Circa 1930

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papillons, 1929

Erté
Symphony in Black 1967, Erté, 1967

Punk Posters
ORIGINAL VINTAGE POSTER LE DAURE , 1990-1998

Eugene Alain Seguy
Insectes, 1924

Bernard Villemot
Original Espana "Spain" vintage Villemot travel poster, c. 1953

Paul Colin
Transatlantique French Line 1855 - 1955 original French vintage poster, 1955

Eugene Alain Seguy
Papillons, 1929

Marcel Vertès
Cabaret Dancer (ala Toulouse Lautrec)

Marcel Vertès
Circus Lovers (Horse Dog)

Paul Jouve
Standing Panther, Circa 1920

henry le monnier
Original Le Vetement "Superchic" pour L Homme vintage French poster, 1931

Arthur Louis Helwig
Ballerinas, 1935

Roger Perot
Cycles Peugeot, 1931

Denis Paul Noyer
Les Deux Magots Litho signed and Numbered by Denis Paul Noyer

Robert Wolff (a.k.a. Robys)
Original Chocolats Confiserie vintage French antique chocolate poster, c. 1935

Francois Serracchiani
Carnival de Nice 1938 original vintage poster, 1938

Jose Morell
Original vintage travel poster to Spain, English version, c. 1940

Joseph de la Neziere
Joseph de la NÉZIÈRE (1873-1944), poster for the Colonial Exhibition, Paris, 1931

Nina Rose
“Longchamp”, Circa 1980

Jean Cocteau
" les nereïdes " .pastel lithography, 1962

Bernard Villemot
Original SNCF Vitesse Confort Exactitude vintage French railroad poster, 1951, 1951

Erté
In Pursuit of Flore, 1985

P. Mahler
Sussex Spaniel, French hound dog chromolithograph print, 1931, 1931

George Massiot Brown
Sandeman Porto Sherry – Iconic Original Poster, 1928

Robert Falcucci
Veuve Amiot: Grands Vins Mousseux, 1929

Robin Morris
LAND OF PHAROAHS, 1985

J. Paret
Grace a Automoto original vintage French motorcycle poster, c 1930

Philippe Henri Noyer
Lovely to Look at, Art Deco Lithograph by Philippe Henri Noyer, circa 1980

Andre Daude
Piano s Daude, 1926

E.H. Raskin
Art Deco : Underwater Flowers, 1926 - Original Lithograph, 1926

Bernard Boutet de Monvel
Art Deco : Toothpaste Advertising - Lithograph, 1896, 1895

Georges Goursat (Sem)
Rare Vintage Art Deco "White Bottoms" Lithograph Pochoir, 1927

Sonia Delaunay
Woman with Art Deco Dress - Lithograph (Artcurial edition), 1994