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.

Deskey Art Deco

20th Century American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Machine Age Art Deco Book Matched Burled Walnut Chest

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Pair of Spectacular Art Deco Chests by Donald Deskey

20th Century Art Deco Side Tables

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Steel Side Tables, Pair

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

Bedroom Set by Donald Deskey for Widdicomb

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Night Stands

1930s Art Deco Carpathian Burl Nightstand with Copper Sabot

Vintage 1920s European Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Unique Art Deco Fire Place Set 1920/30

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Console Tables

Machine Age Art Deco Flip Top Console

20th Century American Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Donald Deskey Three-Piece Fireplace Tool Set

20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco Chrome Bell Shade Desk Lamp

20th Century American Art Deco Side Tables

Streamlined Art Deco Two Tier Occasional or Side Table

20th Century American Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Streamline Modern Petite Art Deco Copper and Lucite Box

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Pair of Art Deco Chrome and Glass Andirons

20th Century American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Late Art Deco American Burl Birch 3-Drawer Commode Chest

Vintage 1930s American Wall Mirrors

Art Deco Porthole Mirror by Donald Deskey

20th Century American Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Streamline Modern Petite Art Deco Copper and Lucite Box

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Art Deco Machine Age Chrome and Glass Fireplace Tool Set

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Night Stands

Pair of Streamlined Art Deco Nightstands in Mahogany and Black Lacquer

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Tables

Art Deco Machine Age Stainless Steel Console Table or Desk

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Table Mirrors

Machine Age Illuminating Art Deco Vanity Mirror and Light

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Night Stands

Pair of Art Deco Streamlined Machine Age Nightstands in Burled Walnut

Vintage 1970s Screens and Room Dividers

Art Deco Styled Asian Folding Screen

20th Century American Art Deco Console Tables

Art Deco Machine Age Flip Top Console / Dining Table

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Tables

Art Deco Machine Age Drinks Table with Skyscraper Details in Chrome Vitrolite

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Milk Glass Panel Sconces, a Pair

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Side Tables

Art Deco Machine Age Pedestal Occasional Table in Chrome and Black Lacquer

20th Century American Art Deco Table Lamps

Rare Art Deco Modernist Silver Plate Desk Table Lamp

Vintage 1960s American Art Deco Andirons

Donald Deskey Andirons and Fireplace Tools by Bennett Co

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Table Lamps

Pair Black and Chrome Art Deco Hurricane Boudoir Lamps

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Cabinets

Streamline Art Deco Bar/ Cabinet in Book-Matched Exotic Walnut Black Lacquer

Vintage 1970s American Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

1970s Art Deco Revival Hanging Pendant Lamp/Chandelier, Skyscraper

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Side Tables

Pair of Desky Style Art Deco Cerused Oak Side Tables

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Pair of Art Deco Donald Desky Style French Lounge Chairs, 1940s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Console Tables

Art Deco Skyscraper Style Streamlined Lacquer Chrome Console Table

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Sofas

Art Deco Streamlined Sofa and Tables in Book Matched Walnut Black Lacquer

20th Century American Art Deco End Tables

Art Deco Streamlined End Table /Night Stand in Burled Book Matched Walnut

Vintage 1930s American Dressers

Art Deco Chest of Drawers by Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Table Lamps

Pair of Art Deco Lamps after Donald Deskey

Vintage 1930s American Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Art Deco Chest by Donald Deskey for Amodec

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Night Stands

Pair of Art Deco Nightstands in Lacquer Walnut w/ Streamlined Chrome Pulls

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Benches