Time Periods
Art Nouveau
c1890 - 1914
Both the Victorians and the Edwardians celebrated the advancement of civilization and the industrial age. For many people, things made by machine were considered more desirable than those made by man. During the 1880's, some people began to resist the surge of mechanization and embrace more simple styles in decor and jewelry. In England the Arts and Crafts movement gained momentum, and by 1890, the Art Nouveau period began in earnest in France.
Following the opening of trade with Japan, and increasing trade with the Far East in general in the late 1800's, Asian art and decorative styles became all the rage in Europe and the United States. Early Art Nouveau artists, especially Rene Lalique, (considered by most to be the father of Art Nouveau), incorporated the themes of nature and the female form.
Themes such as insects, birds, flowers, and dragons were borrowed from Japanese art. Sensual female forms, often nude, were also common, and were considered quite scandalous by the conservative Victorians and Edwardians.
Art Nouveau designs used materials and designs shunned by mainstream designers. Pieces were often asymmetrical with soft flowing lines. Precious metals and stones were used sparingly. Yellow gold was used primarily, in contrast to the white metal preferred by the Edwardians. Exquisite multi-colored enamels were used to bring the pieces to life. Small diamonds, opals and pastel colored stones provided subtle accents.
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