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 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 2

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 7

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 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

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 13

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 14

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 15

What are the key features of Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

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

Question 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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 Terracotta

Antique Early 19th Century Romanian Art Deco Busts

Demetre H. Chiparus, an Art Deco Terracotta Sculpture Bust of a Man, circa 1920

20th Century Art Deco Sculptures

Art Deco Terracotta Panther Sculpture by Andre Vincent Becquerel

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco Terracotta Sculpture ‘Seagulls’ by Henri Bargas, France, circa 1925

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

1930s Art Deco Terracotta Recumbent Nude Female Form Statue by Henri Bargas

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Terracotta Sculpture on Black Marble Base, Signed, France, circa 1920

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Vases

French Art Deco Pair of Terracotta Vases, 1930s

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Busts

Art Deco Sculpture Terracotta Chinese Couple by Gaston Hauchecorne France 1925

20th Century French Art Deco Sculptures

A French Art Deco Sculpture of a Nude Male Signed J. Dalbreuse

20th Century French Art Deco Sculptures and Carvings

Demetre Chiparus Birgitta

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

French Art Deco Terra Cotta Young Woman Greyhound by Pacheco, ca.1930

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Amadeo Gennarelli Terracotta Women Statue, 1930s

20th Century European Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

20th Century Ugo Cipriani Terracotta Sculpture

Early 20th Century Belgian Art Deco Busts

Art Deco Polychromed Terracotta Bust "Cleopatra" by G. Carli, Belgium circa 1920

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Busts

Terracotta Sculpture of Jean Marais Signed "Brochard"

20th Century European Art Deco Table Lamps

Pair of Table Lamps with 1930s Reclaimed Art Deco Tiles, Off-White and Brick

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Marcel Bouraine French Art Deco Young Woman Lying Down Terracotta Sculpture

Vintage 1930s French Empire Antiquities

Art Deco Masterpiece - Signed Kovats Terracotta Sculpture "Christ" -1Y67

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Art Deco, Tiger Terracotta Sculpture

20th Century American Sculptures

Art Deco Stylized Terracotta Elephant

1930s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Giorgio RossiTerracotta Galloping Horse. Signed by Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)

1930s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Giorgio RossiPortrait of boy, terracotta sculpture, 1930s-40s, Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)., 1930-40s

20th Century French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Terracotta Sculpture by Irénée Rochard, 1930, Art Deco Period.

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Kupur Art Deco Japonesque Copper-Clad Terracotta Sculptures

1940s Art Deco Nude Sculptures

Giorgio RossiNude Woman with Hands Above the Head, 1945 Terracotta, signed and dated 1945.

1930s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Giorgio RossiWild boar, terracotta sculpture with bronze. Signed by Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Ceramics

Art Decò Green Enameled Terracotta Vase with Pure Gold Decorations, France

2010s American Art Deco Sculptures and Carvings

Contemporary Reclining Terracotta Sculpture of a Woman, 2019

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Statues

1929 Terracotta Art Deco Figural Pieces from the Times Square Columbia Theater

Mid-20th Century Italian Art Deco Vases

1930s Art Deco Polychrome Hand-Painted Terracotta Italian Vase

Vintage 1930s French Vases

20th Century French Art Deco Glazed Terracotta, 1930s

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Sculpture terracotta, flying seagulls, Henri Bargas, signed 1925 Art Deco France

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco Glazed Terracotta by Albert Heilles, Signed, French, 1931

Vintage 1960s Australian Art Deco Sculptures

Mid-20th Century Terracotta Deco Style Head

Early 20th Century Animal Sculptures

Primavera, Petitjean, Stylized Art Deco Guinea Fowl in Decorated Terracotta

Vintage 1950s Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Brass and Painted Terracotta Chandelier with Lion Friezes, 1950s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Armchairs

Pair of Swedish Art Deco Armchairs Upholstered in a Terracotta Brown Boucle, 30s

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Busts

French Antique Terracotta Bust

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Garden Ornaments

Vintage French Terracotta Pine Cones

20th Century Italian Art Deco Jars

Jar, Art Deco, Terra-Cotta, Italy

1930s Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

Giorgio Rossi
Terracotta Galloping Horse. Signed by Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)

Giorgio Rossi
Portrait of boy, terracotta sculpture, 1930s-40s, Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)., 1930-40s

Giorgio Rossi
Nude Woman with Hands Above the Head, 1945 Terracotta, signed and dated 1945.

Giorgio Rossi
Wild boar, terracotta sculpture with bronze. Signed by Giorgio Rossi (1894-1981)

Enid Bell
Africans, 1935

Enid Bell
Africans, 1937

Giorgio Rossi
Woman Laying. Circa 1930-1940, Giorgio Rossi (1894–1981), Tuscan Sculptor, 1930-40