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 type of paint is best for murals?

Accepted Answer

The best type of paint for murals is acrylic due to its lightfastness and weather resistance. Acrylics work on almost all surfaces and are famous for their quick-drying and flexibility. You will find murals of different styles like contemporary, modern, abstract and street art on 1stDibs.

Question 2

What is a mural in art?

Accepted Answer

In art, a mural is a painting applied to a permanent part of architecture. Most often, artists apply murals to walls or ceilings. Some famous examples of murals in art history include Leonardo da Vinci's Last Supper, Diego Rivera's Man, Controller of the Universe and Banksy's Girl with Balloon. On 1stDibs, find a wide variety of art from some of the world's top dealers and galleries.

Question 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 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 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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 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

How do I identify an Art Deco lamp?

Accepted Answer

To identify an Art Deco lamp, first see if you can locate a maker's mark on it. Often, you can determine the maker and learn about the types of lamps it was known for by researching the maker's marks via online resources. If the maker produced lamps in the Art Deco style and your lamp dates to the 1920s or ’30s, it's a good possibility that your lamp is in the Art Deco style. Some makers who were famous for their Art Deco lamps include Lalique, Daum Frères, Tiffany and Charles Schneider. If you can't find a maker's marking, consider the overall design of your lamp. Fixtures dating back to the era typically feature ornate patterning, such as geometric motifs, sunbursts, ziggurats, linework and fountains. Commonly used materials included chrome, glass, Bakelite and bronze. When in doubt, consider having a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer assist you with making an identification. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Art Deco lamps.

Question 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

Who are some of the most famous Art Deco artists?

Accepted Answer

There are many famous Art Deco artists. In addition, the movement produced many well-known designers and architects. Some of the most notable creatives who contributed to the Art Deco movement include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, René Lalique, Eileen Gray, Jean Dunand, Donald Deskey and Jean Perzel. Explore a wide range of Art Deco furniture and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 20

What are the main characteristics of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco is characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, visual drama and metallic finishes.

Question 21

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 Murals

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Wall Mirrors

Très beau miroir d époque Art Déco

2010s French Art Deco Wallpaper

Portulan de Marco Polo - custom Mural Wallpaper (color gold brown)

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Posters

Giant French Horse Racing Poster Mural by Jacquot, circa 1930s

21st Century and Contemporary American Art Deco Paintings

Large William Haines Canvases

Vintage 1940s American Decorative Art

Undersea Bacchanale, Art Deco Mural Masterpiece, attr. Bourdelle

Vintage 1930s American Paintings

1936 Art Deco Mural: "Nudes in a Balinese Landscape"

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"A Brazilian Embassy, " Colorful Art Deco Mural Study by Briggs at Cornell, 1938

Vintage 1930s American Paintings

"The Etruscans, " Art Deco Mural Masterpiece by Mahoney

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Ulysses and Polyphemos, " Art Deco Mural Masterpiece by Julian

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Pomona with Rain and Lightning, " Monumental Art Deco Mural

Vintage 1930s Unknown Art Deco Paintings

Important Art Deco Mural by Pierre Van Parys Bourdelle Imagination Arienne 1939

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Mermaid, " Art Deco Mural Masterpiece by Paul Julian, WPA Artist

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Don Quixote, " Important WPA/Art Deco Mural Painting by Paul Julian

Vintage 1930s American Paintings

"Apollo and Flora in the Sky, " Art Deco Mural by Bourdelle s circle

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Paintings

"Pomona with Rain and Lightning, " Monumental Art Deco Mural in Gold and Bronze

1920s Art Deco Interior Paintings

Alexander Oscar LevyMural Study, 1920 s

Antique 1890s American Barbizon School Paintings

19th Century Impressionist Barbizon Painting Signed "Howard"

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Drawings

"Strike, " Important Mural Study by Dunbar Beck

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Paintings

"Spanish Cannoneers, " Fabulous Mural Illustrating Washington Irving Classic

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Paintings

"Pitched Battle, " Masterful Mural Painting by James Daugherty, WPA Artist

Early 20th Century Art Deco Drawings

Diego Rivera Signed Charcoal Detail Study for a Mural Section

20th Century American Art Deco Paintings

"Transportation" Mural by Marian Simpson Executed for the 1939 Golden gate Expos

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Terminal Market, Bronx" Large WPA-Period Mural of New York Scene

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Paintings

Peppino Mangravite Atlantic City Post Office Mural Study, Oil on Panel, 1930s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Drawings

"Progress in Transportation, " Exotic Art Deco Mural Study with Airplanes

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Paintings

"Time and Civilization, " Newly Discovered Art Deco Mural Studies, Schreckengost

Vintage 1930s French Paintings

Classic Art Deco Mural Study with Nude Figures from France

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

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

1930s Art Nouveau Portrait Paintings

Andrew Benjamin KennedyAmerican Art Deco Mural Sensual Red Head Nude Woman in a Landscape with Sheep, 1933

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Paintings

"Great Architect of Life", Art Deco Mural Study w/ Nude Mercury, Ocean Liner

1990s Contemporary Landscape Paintings

Pamela Andelin Takamiya Market, Maui Hawaiian Impressionist, Honolulu, Lanai, Kaimuki, Circa 1995

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"The First Requisite, " Important Art Deco-WPA Mural Study Depicting Laborers

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Paintings

"Parable, " Large Art Deco Triptych Mural with Nudes by Liberty Memorial Painter

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Drawings

Art Deco WPA Mural Study of Man in Front of Giant Cog by Frank Reilly

Vintage 1920s American Beaux Arts Paintings

"Commerce and Industry", Beaux Arts/Art Deco Allegorical Mural w/ Male Nudes

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Paintings

"From Log to Newsprint, " Newspaper Lobby Mural Study

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Drawings

"Autumn in Lexington, " Color-Drenched Drawing for "Four Seasons" Mural

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Drawings

"Development of Tennessee", Important Mural Study w/ Indian Chiefs by Cornwell

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Drawings

"Ship Building, " 1930s Era WPA Mural Study with Sailors by Allyn COX

Vintage 1930s North American Art Deco Paintings

Alexander Oscar Levy
Mural Study, 1920 s

Andrew Benjamin Kennedy
American Art Deco Mural Sensual Red Head Nude Woman in a Landscape with Sheep, 1933

Pamela Andelin
Takamiya Market, Maui Hawaiian Impressionist, Honolulu, Lanai, Kaimuki, Circa 1995

Leyla Uluhanli
Art Deco Style "Horses" Mural by Leyla Uluhanli, 2019

Leyla Uluhanli
Art Deco Style "Horses" Mural by Leyla Uluhanli, 2019

Leyla Uluhanli
Art Deco Style "African Women" Mural by Leyla Uluhanli, 2019