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

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 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

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 8

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 9

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 10

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 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.

Mahogany Art Deco

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Sideboards

Italian Art Deco Sideboard by Pier Luigi Colli, 1930s

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Night Stands

Pair of Elegant Nightstands by Rway Art Deco 1940 s

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Pair of Donald Deskey Streamlined Art Deco Chests, USA, Circa 1930s

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chairs

Ruhlmann Cannelure Mahogany Chair

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

1930s Art Deco Brazilian Rosewood Chest Designed by Gilbert Rohde

Vintage 1930s British Art Deco Coffee and Cocktail Tables

Vintage Coffee Table, English, Campaign Taste, Lounge, Centre, Art Deco, C.1930

Early 2000s American Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Barbara Barry for Baker Art Deco Extension Dining Table with 2 Leaves

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dining Room Chairs

Set of Four Art Deco Chairs Gilbert Rohde Heywood Wakefield

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Desks

Art Deco Desk, Rosewood Veneer and Nickel, France, circa 1930

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Exquisite Pair of Vintage Art Deco Commodes with Tulip Pulls by Widdicomb

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Green Lacquered Chest of Drawers, Newly Refinished

Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Sofas

Breathtaking Art Deco Revival Sofa in Rattan Parquetry, Italy, circa 1970

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Donald Deskey Style Art Deco Green Lacquered Chests of Drawers, Newly Refinished

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Vitrines

Art Deco Vitrine Cabinet by Ateliers Gauthier Poinsignon, France, Signed

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Cabinets

Striking Restored Pair of Art Deco Cabinets by John Stuart, circa 1940

Vintage 1930s Danish Art Deco Lounge Chairs

Danish 1930s Art Deco Lounge Chair in Red Mohair with Carved Armrests

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco Dining Room Tables

Art Deco Carved Acanthus Leaf Oval Dining Table by Dorothy Draper

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Dressers

1930s Art Deco Brazilian Rosewood Six-Drawer Dresser by Gilbert Rohde

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Breathtaking Restored Art Deco Chest by Widdicomb, circa 1950- Pair Available

20th Century German Art Deco Buffets

Herman Miller by Gilbert Rohde Art Deco Four Door 10 Drawer Buffet

Mid-20th Century American Art Deco More Dining and Entertaining

Hacker Art Deco Moderne Chrome Corn Set in Fitted Box for Eight

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Sideboards

French Art Deco Sideboard with Mirror, Restored to High Gloss

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco End Tables

Pair of Art Deco White Lacquer End Tables

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Dry Bars

Art Deco Drink Cabinet Bar Ebene De Macassar Full Mahogonie

Vintage 1910s French Art Nouveau Night Stands

Gorgeous Art Nouveau / Art Deco Pair Antique Nightstands Paul Alexandre Dumas

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco End Tables

Pair of French Art Deco Amboyna Wooden End Tables

Mid-20th Century Lounge Chairs

Art Deco beautiful White and Wood Chairs

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Pair Available- Breathtaking Restored Art Deco Commode by Widdicomb, circa 1938

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Vitrines

French Rosewood Art Deco Silver Cabinet in the Style of Leleu

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Vanities

Gilbert Rohde for Herman Miller Art Deco Vanity or Desk, 1930s

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Armchairs

Baptistin Spade, Set of Four Art Deco Armchairs

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Cabinets

French Art Deco / Moderne Vitrine, Bar, Cabinet Attrib. to Jules Leleu 1940s

Antique Late 19th Century Austrian Art Deco Dry Bars

Unique Pop Up Bar Art Deco Vienna 1890 Chippendale Style

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Art Deco Center Tables

Ralph Lauren Mahogany Bryce Pedestal Center Table

Early 20th Century Art Deco Credenzas

French Art Deco Six-Door Buffet in the Style of Jules Leleu

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Chairs

Restored Beige French Art Deco Chair, Designed by Jules Leleu, 1920-1929

Vintage 1940s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Exquisite Pair of Black Lacquer Art Deco Commodes with Tulip Pulls by Widdicomb

21st Century and Contemporary Colombian Mid-Century Modern Side Tables

Pair of Art Deco Side Tables

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Commodes and Chests of Drawers

Exquisite Half Circle Art Deco Commode With Bakelite Hardware C. 1930

Vintage 1930s English Art Deco Sideboards