The Art Movements - Part Three of the Design Eras

Part Three: The Art Movements

Unlike the Victorian and Edwardian periods, which were tied to specific historical figures, the Art Movements crossed political and social lines spanning roughly 100 years. While the decadence of the Victorian period signified wealth and stability; the elegance of the Edwardian - progress and mobility; the Art Movements offered a philosophy of beauty. Fashion and décor now move beyond function, social status, and craftsmanship and become open territory for designers who consider such things as form, color, texture, and design sense. The three most influential art movements are: Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Arts and Crafts. 

While it’s difficult to pin-point the exact time each movement began, below is a time table of each movements’ most influential time periods:

Arts and Crafts (1890 - 1930) – The arts and crafts movement developed in England during the reign of Queen Victoria, outlasted King Edward, and had international influence. It offered an alternative to the lavish refine tastes of high society, and sought to make architecture, furniture, and home décor more approachable and down-to-earth by using natural materials (such as wood, clay, and glass), earthy color (such as green, yellow, and brown), and natural matte finishes. The items below, offered by the Vintage Vertigo shops, show off some of these qualities beautifully.

MatteGreen Arts and Crafts Planter offered by LakesideCottage:

DenbacFrench Pottery, Arts and Crafts Pitcher with drip Matte drip Glaze Offered by FreeLiving

Art Nouveau (1890 - 1910) – While Arts and Crafts designs were gaining popularity in England and America, French Artists introduced a wave of “New Art” designs – known as “Art Nouveau.” Drawing on romantic literature and French symbolism, these artists combine romantic elegance with natural color, textures, and themes. Characteristics of Art Nouveau pieces include slender fluid lines, earthy colors, natural and mixed materials, and matte finishes.

A beautiful example of Art Nouveau beauty can be seen in this hand painted porcelainand bronze decanter offered by HallderVintage

As well as on this silverpicture frame offered by LittleRed Hen

Art Deco (1925 - 1940)

Art Deco hit the ‘New Art’ scene in 1925 at an International Exposition of Decorative Arts in Paris and focused less on romanticism and symbolism and more on pure ascetic design. American culture took a liking to these new designs which seemed to them to be “the future.” Art Deco is playful, energized period recognized by bold geometric lines, contrasting colors, and tall slender figures – including ladies in sporty short hair, deer, peacocks

A classic Art Deco motif is seen on this PapierMache Tray

offered by FineRomance

GoldArt Deco Brooch encrusted with Sapphires, Garnets, Topaz, and Lapis

Offered by the JewelryLady’s Store

No doubt, the art movements of England and France had a great impact on America’s emerging society. Their influence continues to inspire artists to seek new expressions in home décor, architecture, and fashion.

Part Three of a Five Part series on Vintage Styles by Mary of FineRomance.