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

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 3

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 4

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 5

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 6

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 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 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

How do I know if my ring is Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

To know if a ring is Art Deco, examine its style. The Art Deco period, encompassing the 1920s and ’30s, ushered in a very distinct look in the design of jewelry. Makers often incorporated geometric motifs in jewelry designs. Materials may also provide a clue about the era of the piece. Platinum, rubies, sapphires and emeralds were some of the most common precious metals and gemstones used at the time. Keep in mind that there are many convincing reproductions of Art Deco rings and other high-quality pieces inspired by originals. As a result, you may wish to have a certified appraiser or expert within the field of antique jewelry design to evaluate the ring. Shop a selection of Art Deco rings on 1stDibs.

Question 13

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 14

How was Art Deco furniture made?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco furniture was largely made by hand. Crafters often employed exotic hardwood like zebra wood, rosewood and Macassar ebony. Many pieces had a polished Japanese lacquer finish, which gave a high-gloss shine to the wood. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Art Deco furniture.

Question 15

Is Toulouse-Lautrec Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The work of French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec falls into the Art Nouveau style, which was prevalent approximately during the period of 1890-1910. Following the Art Nouveau period was the Art Deco era, which is usually defined as the era between 1920 and 1930. Toulouse-Lautrec died in 1901 putting his art in the era of Art Nouveau, but certain aspects of it definitely hint at the coming Art Deco style considering the definite overlap of the two movements. On 1stDibs, find a variety of original artwork from top artists.

Question 16

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 17

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.

Question 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Finials Art Deco

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Machine Age Skyscraper Style Streamlined Nickel and Glass Sconce

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Seven Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Eight Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Four Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Four Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Three Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of Twelve Murano Glass Wall Sconces, Art Deco Style, in Stock

Vintage 1980s Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Modern Italian Murano Glass Textured Wall Sconces, 80s

Vintage 1980s Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Modern Italian Murano Glass Textured Wall Sconces, 80s

Vintage 1980s Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Modern Italian Murano Glass Textured Wall Sconces, 80s

Late 20th Century Italian Fireplace Tools and Chimney Pots

Set Solid Brass Fire Tool / Stand

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Architectural Elements

Antique Art Deco Patinated Copper Finial

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Puiforcat French Art Deco Box with Green Faux Malachite Finial

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Flush Mount

American Art Deco Flush Mount Ceiling Lamp with Decorative Chrome Cage Finial

Early 20th Century French Architectural Elements

Pair of Art Deco Finials from the 1925 World s Fair

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Table Lamps

SALE! SALE! SALE! A Pair of Art Deco Lalique Style Glass Lamps Nickle Finials

Early 20th Century Table Lamps

An Art Deco Porcelain and Gilt Bronze Table Lamp, Bone Finial

20th Century Andirons

Pair Of Art Deco Style Nickel Andirons, with Jumbo Ball Finials

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Flush Mount

Brass Flush Mount with Etched Dome and Finial Two Available

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco Lens Pendant with Stenciled Shade, circa 1930

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Flush Mount

Art Deco Flush Mount with Stenciled Shade and Lens, circa 1935

Vintage 1930s French Vases and Vessels

Art Deco skiing trophy by Lapparra, c. 1930

Vintage 1930s Italian Tables

ITALIAN ART DECO GLASS SIDE TABLE probably by Fontana Arte

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Polychrome Slipper Shade Sconces with Pierced Sides, circa 1935

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Slipper Shade Sconces with Original Polychrome, circa 1930s

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Large Five-Light Slipper Shade Ring Chandelier, circa 1933

Vintage 1920s Art Deco Flush Mount

Very Unusual Gill Glass Modernique Fixture with Original Polychrome, circa 1929

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Incredible Five-Light Slipper Chandelier with Saturn Motif, circa 1938

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Five-Light Slipper Shade Chandelier with Rich Gold Finish, circa 1930s

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Three-Light Slipper Chandelier with Amber Shades, circa 1930s

Vintage 1930s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Three-Light Slipper Chandelier with Duotone Finish, circa 1930s

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Carlo Scarpa pendent light made in italy 1930 by Venini

Vintage 1930s Vases

René Lalique Vase, "Marignane"

Mid-20th Century European Art Deco Table Lamps

Opaline Art Deco Table Lamp with Glass Finial

20th Century English Art Deco Architectural Elements

Pair of Large Statuesque English Cast Stone Art Deco Finials

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

SWEDISH ART DECO SILVER PLATE PEDESTAL SWEET DISH With SCOTTIE DOG FINIAL

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Marie Zimmermann Silvered Art Deco Covered Compote Pair with Bakelite Finials

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Puiforcat French Art Deco Silver-Plate Bonbonniere Box with Green Enamel Finial

Vintage 1920s British Art Deco Cufflinks

Art Deco Diamond dress cufflinks

2010s American Art Deco Wall Brackets