Art Deco 1910-1939

by Charlotte Benton, Tim Benton, Ghislaine Wood

This volume brings together nearly 40 essays from leading experts in the field to discuss the phenomenon that was Art Deco. After an introductory section which looks at the definition and scope of the style, and locates it historically within the early 20th century, Part 2 explores its sources and iconography; Part 3 reviews the 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs, held in Paris, which marked the high point of Deco in Europe while providing the catalyst for its wider spread and development; Part 4 traces that development both through Europe and through the various media, from architecture to fashion, that fell in thrall to its modern imperative and Part 5 traces its spread into America, India and beyond.

Genres: Art, Nonfiction, Reference, History, Art History, Crafts, Design

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2003

Reviews

[Daniel A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

At some point a few months ago, I decided—admittedly unwittingly—that I didn't really want to finish Art Deco 1910-1939, a dense coffee table book that accompanied an exhibit of the same name that I very much enjoyed at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts. It wasn't that the book wasn't instructive or interesting—quite the opposite, in fact—but that a book like this isn't really meant to be read cover to cover; it's meant to sit out for guests and the owner to browse every so often at parties or at a moment when they want to explore the full litany of art deco pieces in the book.

Let me be clear: The artwork presented in Art Deco 1910-1939 is impressive and gorgeous, and the book definitely seems to be the definitive art-museum text on the subject of art deco. But as I said, it's a bit overkill when you read it cover to cover.

[Yasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A large and weighty book full of interesting information and pictures. I would like to have read something more on Georges Barbier, however, what I did read was amazing. The genre that we know as Art Deco spanned a lot of countries and a lot of different styles. Certainly this book is a must read for anyone interested in Art in any degree.

[Dawson Cole · Rating 4 out of 5]

the 1925 Paris exhibition is why im alive bb

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an exhaustive source of inspiration via hundreds of plates and historical essays on every aspect of the Art Deco movement.

[Andrew]

Didn't read it cover to cover--used a portion of it for a school assignment. A great reference/guide.

[Redgie · Rating 2 out of 5]

not as good as i thought it'd be

[Julie Brock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful. I didn't realize that the influences upon, and reach of, Art Deco covered all continents.

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great comprehensive look at art deco in all its various forms.