Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a new and innovative style of visual arts, architecture and design that started taking shape towards the end of the nineteenth century. This new form of art was developed mainly in Europe and North America. Art Nouveau gets its name from the shop – ‘L'Art Nouveau Bing’ – in Paris in 1896. However, this art movement had different names in different countries. Art Nouveau was a modern form of art that was developed by talented designers and artists. New technologies, ideas, concepts and lifestyles were reflected in this art movement. However, some artists stuck to traditions, myths, fantasy and history and expressed it in their work.

Art Nouveau was a breakthrough from the Victorian age. It took inspiration from nature and in unlikely elements like seaweed, grasses and insects. The Art Nouveau designs, decorations, paintings and themes had free flowing lines. The artists used bright colours to express themselves. The Art Nouveau movement artists and designers used new materials, machines and even machined surfaces to create beautiful pieces of art. Art Nouveau is recognised by the highest level of craftsmanship and designs. Art Nouveau jewellery, furniture, furnishings, textiles, utensils and lighting are quite popular among collectors. Some of the famous artists and designers of that era include William Morris, George Fouquet, Alphonse Mucha, Aubrey Beardsley and Phillipe Wolfers. The art movement came to an end by 1914. However, rare items from the Art Nouveau era continue to be popular among collectors.