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 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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 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

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 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 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 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

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 17

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 18

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 19

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.

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 Spelter

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

French Art Deco Marabou Bird Sculpture by Max Le Verrier, 1930s, Spelter

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Bookends

Pair of French Art Deco Dodo Bookends in Silvered Spelter and Marble, 1930s

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Vintage Decorative Otter, French, Bronze Spelter, Art Deco, Ornament

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

French Art Deco Patinated Spelter Sculpture of "The Rower" by Alexandre Ouline

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

Art Deco - Pair of French Horse Bookends in Spelter on Marquinia Marble Base

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Jumping Horse Vintage Art Deco Animal Spelter Sculpture Fougue by Max Le Verrier

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Slip Shade Art Deco Chandelier, Spelter with Antique Bronze Patina

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco Statue Spelter Metal On Marble Deer Doe 1930s

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

Serre Livres lévriers en Spelter sur marbre noir veiné Art Déco France XX Siècle

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Table Lamps

French Art Deco Table Lamp, Brass Spelter Marble Glass, Bird on Rock, c. 1930

Vintage 1930s French Animal Sculptures

Vintage Art Deco Roaring Panther in green patinated spelter on marble base

Mid-20th Century French Table Lamps

Vintage Figural Table Lamp, French, Spelter Desk Light, Art Deco, Balleste, 1930

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Demetre Chiparus "Coquetry" Spelter Statue, 1920s

Vintage 1930s Bookends

Nude Art Deco Flapper Girl Spelter Metal Bookends by Nuart, Pair

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Mouflon in Spelter Patinated by Le Verrier

20th Century French Art Deco Table Lamps

1930 s Spelter And Alabaster Lamp

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Sculptures

Josef Lorenzl Style Spelter and Onyx Dancer Style Statue

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Sculpture Olympic Salute

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Busts

Art Deco Patinated Bust

2010s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Black Panther Sculpture Jungle Original Max Le Verrier Spelter Marble

2010s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Vautour Animal Sculpture in Spelter Marble Original Max Le Verrier

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco Panther Signed Plagnet

20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

French Art Deco Stork Bookends

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco Table Lamp

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Pair of English Vintage Granite and Spelter Dog Bookends, Pointer

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco Panther signed Leducq

21st Century and Contemporary French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Spartiate by Max Le Verrier Spartan Archer Warrior Sculpture in Spelter

21st Century and Contemporary French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Dancer Sculpture in Spelter, Folie by Denis, Original Max Le Verrier

2010s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Green Patinated Panther Sculpture Jungle Original Max Le Verrier Spelter Marble

2010s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Brown Patinated Panther Sculpture Jungle Original Max Le Verrier Spelter Marble

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Bookends

Pair of Art Deco Polar Bear Bookends

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

Pair of Art Deco Jockey Bookends

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco Pheasant Sculpture, French, 1930s

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Bookends

Hippolyte Moreau Pair Of Art Deco Bookends

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

Art Deco French Pair of Bookends

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Paperweights

Max Le Verrier Art Deco Paperweight

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Bookends

Art Deco French Figural Bookends, circa 1935

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Bookends

Pair of Art Deco Racehorse Bookends Circa 1935

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco sculpture by Irenée Rochard

21st Century and Contemporary French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures