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

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 13

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 14

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 15

What does Art Deco ring mean?

Accepted Answer

The term Art Deco ring means a ring produced in the Art Deco style. Most Art Deco jewelry dates back to the 1920s and 30s and features defined lines and geometric motifs. While a lot of Art Deco rings were black and white — the black coming from the use of onyx or black enamel and the white from rock crystal and diamonds — there is plenty of color in jewelry of the era. A perfect accent to diamonds in platinum settings were blue sapphires, emeralds and rubies, and these stones were also used in combination with each other. On 1stDibs, find a variety of Art Deco rings.

Question 16

What era was Art Deco rings?

Accepted Answer

Art Deco rings are from the era of the 1920s and 1930s. While Art Deco began to emerge a bit earlier than that, the style truly gained momentum after the end of World War I. Rings from the time period often feature geometric motifs, bold colors and designs that were influenced by Cubism, Futurism and other movements in visual art. Diamonds were exceptionally popular, while accent gems such as sapphires, emeralds and rubies brought vivid color to engagement rings and added sophistication and glamour. On 1stDibs, shop a variety of Art Deco rings.

Question 17

What is the difference between Memphis and Art Deco?

Accepted Answer

The difference between Memphis and Art Deco is that the terms refer to two different design styles. Art Deco emerged in the 1920s, and its pieces often flaunt bold geometric lines and forms, floral motifs and ornamental details, such as mirrored finishes and inlays of mother-of-pearl or ivory. Named after the Memphis Group, which formed in 1980, Memphis design emphasizes freedom of expression, dizzying patterns and off-the-wall colors. Some people describe it as Art Deco meets Pop art. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Art Deco and Memphis design furniture.

Question 18

What is Art Deco’s time period?

Accepted Answer

The Art Deco era is 1925 to 1940.

Question 19

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.

Question 20

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.

Swedish Art Deco

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Paintings

"Portrait of Swedish Student", Art Deco Painting in Blue and Gray by Söderberg

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases

Bronze Art Deco Vase by BOWI, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Bowls

Simon Gate for Orrefors – Art Deco Pressed Glass Bowl, Sweden, ca. 1930

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Vases

Beige Ceramic Art Deco Lidded Box by Upsala Ekeby, Sweden, 1930s.

Vintage 1940s Swedish Art Deco Figurative Sculptures

1940s Swedish White Porcelain Art Deco Figure by Harald Salomon for Rörstrand

Vintage 1940s Art Deco Chandeliers and Pendants

Art Deco, Chandelier, Textured Glass, Chrome, Sweden, Circa 1930s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Decorative Bowls

Off-white Ceramic Art Deco Bowl by Upsala Ekeby, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Candelabras

Pair of Pewter Art Deco Candlesticks Candelabras by Harald Linder, Sweden, 1932.

Vintage 1940s Swedish Art Deco Vases

Art Deco Vase in Bronze and Brass by SVM Handarbete, Sweden 1940s

Vintage 1910s Swedish Art Deco Urns

"Leaping Gazelles, " Early, Richly Glazed Art Deco Urn in Black and Gold, Sweden

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Vases

Green Ceramic Art Deco Vase by Andersson Johansson, Höganäs, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Boxes

GAB Swedish Modern Pewter Box with Playing Card Motif - Art-Deco 1930 s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Carl Milles Art Deco Bronze Dish by GAB Guldsmedsaktiebolaget, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Ottomans and Poufs

Swedish Grace Velvet Mohair Art Deco Poufs by Oskar Bernströms, 1930s

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Urns

Green Art Deco Lustre Lidded Urn by Josef Ekberg for Gustavsberg, Sweden, 1928.

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Table Lamps

Art Deco Bronze-Patinated Table Lamp with Eagles, Sweden, circa 1930s

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Table Lamps

Scandinavian art deco table lamp, nude female archer, brass, Sweden, 1920s

Early 20th Century Art Deco Table Lamps

Spherical Patinated Bronze Table Lamp, Art Deco, 1930s Sweden

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Svenskt Tenn Adam and Eve Pewter and Wood Art Deco Decorative Box, Sweden 1920s

Mid-20th Century Swedish Vases

Art Deco Lars Kjellander Art Glass Fish Vase Sculpture Sweden Kosta Orrefors

Vintage 1970s Swedish Art Deco Candlesticks

A pair of Pewter Candlestics by Edvin Ollers, Sweden 1930s Art deco

Vintage 1920s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Table Lamps

Pair of Art Deco Wall Lamps, Sweden, 1920s

Early 20th Century Danish Art Deco Sofas

Sculptural Sofa in Nutwood Burl, Art Deco, Swedish Cabinetmaker, 1940s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

Pair of Art Deco Bronze Vases by Ystad Brons / Metall, Sweden, 1930s.

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Candelabras

Art Deco Candelabra in Pewter by Lars Holmström in Arvika, Sweden, 1931

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

Large Octagonal Bronze Art Deco Vase by GAB Guldsmedsaktiebolaget, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Candlesticks

Pair of Rare Pewter Brass Art Deco Candlesticks by GAB, Sweden, 1939.

Mid-20th Century Swedish Mid-Century Modern Vases

Small Vintage Posy Vase, Swedish, Scandinavian, Art Glass, Flower Jar, Art Deco

Vintage 1920s Scandinavian Art Deco Candlesticks

Art Deco Corinthian Column Candlesticks in Pewter, Sweden 1920s

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Tea Sets

Art Deco era GEFLE of Sweden Demitasse Espresso Cup Saucer set of 11

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Sofas

Swedish Deco Green and White Striped Sofa

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Vases

Pink Art Deco Stoneware Vase by Gunnar Nylund. Rorstrand, Sweden, 1930s.

Vintage 1940s Swedish Art Deco Cabinets

Art Deco Cabinet

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Decorative Bowls

Bronze Art Deco Bowl / Dish by Böhlmarks, Sweden, 1930s.

Early 20th Century Swedish Art Deco Candlesticks

Art Deco Candlesticks in Brass by O.H. Lagersted Made in Sweden

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

"Golden Dolphin, " Art Deco Glass Vase with Enameled Decoration, Sweden, 1930s

Vintage 1920s Swedish Art Nouveau Vases

Gustavsberg Sgraffito Art Deco Vase Josef Ekberg Sweden 1922

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Vases

Bronze Art Deco Vase by GAB Guldsmedsaktiebolaget, Sweden, 1930s.

Vintage 1940s Swedish Art Deco Settees

Swedish Art Moderne Settee Sofa

Mid-20th Century Swedish Art Deco Vases