Vintage early 20th century Obsidian black glass and chrome Art Deco oval tray. This stunning tray cries out Art Deco with its amazing handles and beautiful black glass insert. It looks amazing as a cocktail or dressing table piece ( see pictures illustration only - price is for tray).
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Some age related wear.  Two very light, hardly noticeable, marks on glass.
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Size: 37 cm wide 27 cm depth 5 cm tall to handles.
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Art Deco emerged as a prominent design movement in the 1920s and 30s, particularly after World War I, and is characterized by its geometric forms, rich colours, and luxurious materials. It represented a break from the preceding Art Nouveau style, embracing modernity and technological progress. The style's name is derived from the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris, which showcased the latest trends in design.
Key Characteristics and Influences:
Geometric Shapes:
Art Deco is known for its use of stylized, symmetrical geometric forms, such as chevrons, zigzags, and stepped patterns.
Rich Colors and Materials:
The style often features bold, contrasting colors and luxurious materials like chrome, lacquer, and exotic woods.
Modernist Influence:
Art Deco celebrated industrial design and the machine age, incorporating motifs from transportation (cars, trains, airplanes) and architecture.
Eclectic Influences:
While embracing modernity, Art Deco also drew inspiration from ancient cultures (Egypt, Greece, Mesopotamia), tribal art, and other artistic movements like Cubism.
Luxury and Glamour:
Art Deco epitomized a sense of opulence, sophistication, and modernity, reflecting the post-war desire for a more glamorous lifestyle.
Spread and Impact:
The style quickly gained popularity worldwide, influencing architecture, interior design, furniture, fashion, and graphic design.
Historical Context:
Post-World War I Era:
The end of WWI brought a sense of optimism and a desire for a fresh start, which is reflected in the bold and forward-looking designs of Art Deco.
The Roaring Twenties:
Art Deco became the visual embodiment of the "Roaring Twenties" with its celebration of modernity, leisure, and prosperity.
The Great Depression:
While Art Deco continued to be popular during the Great Depression, its focus on luxury and extravagance was somewhat tempered.
Decline and Legacy:
Post-World War II:
With the end of WWII and the rise of new design movements like Modernism, Art Deco gradually fell out of favor.
Resurgence of Interest:
In the late 20th century, Art Deco experienced a revival, with renewed appreciation for its aesthetic and influence on contemporary design.
Enduring Influence:
Art Deco's legacy continues to inspire designers and artists today, with its timeless elegance and striking visual language.
 
 
The name for naturally occurring black glass formed by volcanic activity is obsidian. It's a type of igneous rock formed when lava cools very quickly, preventing crystal formation and resulting in a glass-like appearance.
Obsidian is often found in the margins of rhyolitic lava flows. It's rich in silica and has a composition similar to rhyolite. Its ability to form sharp edges made it valuable for tool making in prehistoric times. It also has a range of colors, including black, mahogany, and rainbow, depending on the specific composition and cooling conditions.