Question 1

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 2

What is Art Nouveau jewelry?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau jewelry generally featured three main themes: flora, fauna and women. The Art Nouveau movement lasted 15 years and it reached its pinnacle in the year 1900. Art Nouveau jewelers used every “canvas” imaginable, looking beyond brooches and necklaces to belt buckles, fans, tiaras, dog collars (a type of choker necklace), pocket watches, corsages and hair combs. Multicolored gems and enamel could complete this vision better than diamonds. Enameling is most often associated with Art Nouveau jewelry, specifically plique-à-jour. Known as backless enamel, plique-à-jour allows light to come through the rear of the enamel because there is no metal backing. It creates an effect of translucence and lightness. Shop a collection of antique and vintage Art Nouveau jewelry from some of the world’s top jewelers on 1stDibs.

Question 3

Where did Art Nouveau originate?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau originated in France and Great Britain, but variants materialized elsewhere. The visual vocabulary of Art Nouveau was particularly influenced by the soft colors and abstract images of nature as portrayed in Japanese art prints, which arrived in large numbers in the West after open trade was forced upon Japan in the 1860s. Impressionist artists were moved by the artistic tradition of Japanese woodblock printmaking and other modes of art and design in the East Asian country. The Art Nouveau style quickly reached a wide audience in Europe via advertising posters, book covers, illustrations and other work by such artists as Aubrey Beardsley, Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec and Alphonse Mucha. While all Art Nouveau designs share common formal elements, different countries and regions produced their own versions. Explore a selection of Art Nouveau furniture, jewelry and art on 1stDibs.

Question 4

Why did Art Nouveau end?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau ended primarily due to world events. When World War I broke out in 1914, artistic production was largely halted in order to free up materials for manufacturing equipment for the war effort. By the time the 1919 Treaty of Versailles brought about the end of the war, interest in Art Nouveau had waned. Designers and artists became interested in new forms and styles, such as Art Deco. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture, decorative objects, jewelry and art.

Question 5

What is Art Nouveau furniture?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau furniture was a style of furniture that emerged at the end of the 19th century and was characterized by its complex curved lines. The curved details in the furniture were typically carved by hand and finished with lacquer. The unmistakable gloss that is associated with Art Nouveau comes from the thick coat of varnish applied to the furniture as the final step of the production process.

Question 6

What was Art Nouveau influenced by?

Accepted Answer

Art Nouveau was influenced by a few things. The soft colors and abstract images of nature seen in Japanese woodblock prints, which arrived in large numbers in the West after open trade was forced upon Japan in the 1860s, were a major source of inspiration. Also, Pre-Raphaelite art and the Arts and Crafts and Rococo styles had an influence on Art Nouveau designers. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Art Nouveau furniture and decorative objects.

Question 7

Who started the Art Nouveau movement?

Accepted Answer

No one person created the Art Nouveau movement. However, the term debuted in an 1884 article in the L'Art Moderne journal, describing the work of a collective of artists known as Les XX. As a result, some people credit the group and its founding members, James Ensor and Théo van Rysselberghe, as helping to define the movement. However, Art Nouveau was heavily informed by work that came before, including Rococo design, Pre-Raphaelite art, Japanese art and the Arts and Crafts movement. Beyond Les XX, a number of creators helped to propel the movement. Among them were Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Louis Majorelle, Émile Gallé, Antoni Gaudí and Tiffany Studios. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture and decorative objects.

Question 8

What materials were used in Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

The Art Nouveau design movement used such materials as cast iron and steel, ceramic and glass. This style of architecture, design, art and jewelry was characterized by its use of long, sinuous lines that are reflected in nature.

Question 9

Is stained glass Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some stained glass is Art Nouveau. It was during this period that Louis Comfort Tiffany produced his famed stained glass windows and decorative objects. However, the tradition of producing stained glass traces all the way back to the Gothic period. You'll find a selection of stained glass on 1stDibs.

Question 10

What did Alphonse Mucha do for Art Nouveau?

Accepted Answer

Alphonse Mucha was a Czech painter who is one of the originators of the Art Nouveau style. His style of painting and design rose in popularity in 1895 and he produced many works, including illustrations, posters and jewelry designs. Find a variety of Alphonso Mucha art and prints on 1stDibs.

Question 11

How do I identify Art Nouveau jewelry?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Nouveau jewelry, first consider its overall shape and themes. Flora, fauna and female figures were the three main themes in Art Nouveau jewelry. Winged creatures, such as insects and birds, were also popular subjects. Next, examine the materials and techniques. Art Nouveau jewelers distinguished themselves from their predecessors through the use of their unorthodox materials and methods. Prior to the 20th century, artisans working with jewelry prioritized precious metals and diamonds. This was not true for Art Nouveau creators. Enameling is most often associated with Art Nouveau jewelry, specifically plique-à-jour. Known as backless enamel, plique-à-jour allows light to come through the rear of the enamel because there is no metal backing. It creates an effect of translucence and lightness. Art Nouveau jewelers also favored pearls, particularly baroque pearls, for their large size and irregular shape. However, opal was the most popular stone, and Art Nouveau jewelry was primarily set in yellow gold. If you need more help identifying your jewelry, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable dealer can assist you. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of Art Nouveau jewelry.

Question 12

How do you identify Art Nouveau furniture?

Accepted Answer

To identify Art Nouveau furniture, first try to locate a maker's mark on the piece. You can then use it to research the maker with the help of information published in trusted online resources. Some makers, such as Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Louis Majorelle and Émile Gallé, are well-known for their Art Nouveau furnishings. If you determine that a maker identified with Art Nouveau produced your piece, it likely reflects the movement's characteristics, especially if it was made during the late 19th or early 20th centuries. You can also look for common features of Art Nouveau furniture, such as sinuous, organic and flowing lines; forms that mimic flowers and plant life; decorative inlays and ornate carvings of natural-world motifs such as insects and animals and the use of hardwoods such as oak, mahogany and rosewood. A certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer can aid you with the identification process. Shop a diverse assortment of Art Nouveau furniture on 1stDibs.

Question 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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

Art Nouveau Deco

Mid-20th Century French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

French Art Deco Art Nouveau Cut Etched Glass and Gilt Brass 6-Light Chandelier

Vintage 1960s Chinese Chinese and East Asian Rugs

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Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty Chair, 1900, France

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Bookend Sign: Czechoslovakia , 1900, Style: Art Nouveau

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Early 20th Century French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Large French Art Deco or Nouveau Amber Glass Fringe Hollywood Regency Chandelier

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Art Nouveau in Degué Style Cut Glass 4-Light Chandelier, circa 1920

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Beds and Bed Frames

Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty Headboard, 1900, France

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Art Nouveau Art Deco Silver Vase Urn Shape Table Lamp Light Antique Shade LA CA

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Antique Art Deco Rug Antique Art Nouveau Rug Chinese Rug 1920 Purple

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

French Art Nouveau and Art Deco Amber and Clear Glass Straws 12-Light Chandelier

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Centerpiece, France, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, 1900

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Centerpieces

Centerpiece, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, France, 1900

Antique Early 1900s Austrian Art Nouveau Glass

Vase Loetz , Style : Art Nouveau , Bohemia, circa 1900

Mid-20th Century French Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

French Art Deco Art Nouveau Amber Beaded Fringe Cut Glass Globes Chandelier

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Art Nouveau Table Lamp, Original

Early 20th Century Art Deco Brooches

Antique Art Deco, Nouveau, Gold and Platinum Bar Brooch with Diamonds and Pearl

Mid-20th Century Italian Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

Italian Art Deco Art Nouveau Amber Beaded Clear Glass Fringe Murano Chandelier

Early 20th Century French Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

French Art Deco Art Nouveau Amber Beaded Crystal Fringe Gilt Ornate Chandelier

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Centerpieces

Centerpiece, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, France, Sign: Christofle

Mid-20th Century French Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

Italian Art Deco Art Nouveau Amber Straw Fringe Beaded Murano Glass Chandelier

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Pedestals and Columns

Column , Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty , 1900, French

Vintage 1910s German Art Nouveau Centerpieces

Centerpiece, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, German, 1910

Vintage 1910s German Art Nouveau Centerpieces

Centerpiece, Art Nouveau, Liberty, German, 1910, WMF

Antique Early 1900s German Art Nouveau Centerpieces

Centerpiece, German, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, 1900

Early 20th Century Italian Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

Italian Art Nouveau Art Deco Murano Pink Crystals Tear Drop Bronze Chandelier

Antique Early 1900s German Art Nouveau Barware

Neptun Filter, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, 1900

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French Art Nouveau or Art Deco Art Glass Flower Gilt Brass 9-Light Chandelier

Antique 1890s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Nouveau Hand Painted Glass Lamp

20th Century Figurative Sculptures

Art Deco Nouveau Modern Female Nude Bronze Decorative Figurative Sculpture

Vintage 1930s French Art Nouveau Table Lamps

Antique Lamp Base , Bronze , Nouveau or Deco

20th Century French Hollywood Regency Chandeliers and Pendants

French Art Nouveau or Art Deco Art Glass Flower Gilt Brass 9-Light Chandelier

Vintage 1920s French Art Nouveau Glass

Vase, Sign: Gallé, Style: Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty

Antique Early 1900s French Art Nouveau Figurative Sculptures

Sculpture, 1900, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty, France

Antique Early 1900s German Art Nouveau Table Mirrors

Mirror, Year, 1910, Jugendstil, Art Nouveau, Liberty

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Table Lamps

Daum Nancy Art Nouveau Table Lamp

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Stanley Tigerman
Vintage Chicago Architect Stanley Tigerman Cloisonne Enamel Art Necklace Acme, c.1980s

Alberto Olabuenaga
Architect Olabuenaga Vintage Cloisonne Enamel Art Necklace Acme studios Necktie, 1980 s