Author(s): Ghislaine Wood

Art

A complete overview of one of the most visually stunning and popular eras of the 20th century--Art Deco--in one exquisitely designed compendium. The glamour, vibrancy, and high style of the Art Deco age comes to life in this handsome companion to the "Art Deco 1910-1939" exhibition, on display at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and soon to travel through North America. From the birth of the skyscraper to streamlining and futuristic design, Essential Art Deco traces the origins of the style from many places, including Egypt, which had a tremendous influence after the discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamen. The international scope of the style is emphasized with examples from Europe and the United States, as well as India, South America, Australasia, and East Asia, and all elements of the style are covered, from jewelry and accessories to the decorative arts, automobiles, and architecture. With imagery ranging from highly decorative to spare and futuristic, ESSENTIAL ART DECO is an exciting new take on the style of the '20s and '30s.