Antique early 20th century 1920s art deco pewter lidded cut glass dressing jar

Antique early 20th century 1920s art deco pewter lidded cut glass dressing jar. This wonderful dressing table jar has that amazing art deco design. It is cut glass decorated and has a star cut base with some age related wear.

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12 cm wide

6 cm depth

5 cm tall

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Art Deco was a design movement from the 1910s to the 1930s, originating in France and flourishing between the two World Wars. It was characterized by geometric shapes, symmetry, and sleek lines, and drew inspiration from various sources including Cubism, ancient Egyptian artifacts like those found in King Tutankhamun's tomb, and the age of machine-age technology and speed. The style celebrated modernity, progress, and luxury, making its influence visible in architecture, furniture, jewelry, and fashion.

Origins and influences

Pre-WWI Paris: Art Deco began in France as a reaction against the overly ornate Art Nouveau style.

Modern art: Early influences included Cubism and Fauvism, which introduced geometric shapes and abstract forms.

Archaeological discoveries: The 1922 discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb sparked a widespread fascination with ancient Egyptian motifs and styles, which were incorporated into Art Deco designs.

Technology and speed: The era's obsession with progress and speed was reflected in the style's sleek, streamlined forms inspired by modern transportation like trains and ocean liners.

Global culture: Designers also borrowed from other cultures, including African, Japanese, and folk art.

Key characteristics

Geometric and symmetrical: Designs are often composed of geometric patterns, zigzags, chevrons, and stepped forms.

Luxurious materials: It celebrated opulence with the use of materials like chrome, lacquer, ivory, and ebony.

Bold and vibrant: The style is known for its vibrant colors and sleek, pared-back forms.

Stylized nature: Natural elements, such as flowers and animals, were stylized and used in decorative patterns.

Peak and decline

Peak popularity: Art Deco reached its peak during the Roaring Twenties and the interwar period, seen as a symbol of the era's glamour, luxury, and modernization.

Global reach: The style's influence spread worldwide through architecture (like the Chrysler Building), film (like Metropolis), and the design of everyday objects.

Decline: After World War II, the style's popularity waned, though it experienced revivals in the 1980s with Memphis design.