The Art Nouveau period began in around 1890 in Belgium and Paris and quickly gained popularity throughout Europe and the USA for around twenty years. The era is also known as ‘The Belle Epoque’ The term Art Nouveau was first used in the 1880s in the Belgian journal L’Art Moderne’ to describe the work of ‘Les Vingt’ twenty painters and sculptors seeking reform through art. The name was popularized by the Maison de l’Art Nouveau (‘House of the New Art’), an art gallery opened in Paris in 1895 by the Franco-German art dealer Siegfried Bing.Art Nouveau style took inspiration from nature and especially flowers, plants, insects and birds. This style was represented in art, architecture, china, glass and of course lighting. An Art Nouveau chandelier will typically display sinuous lines, whiplash curves, decorated with leafy detail. As in nature, Decorative detail in art nouveau interiors can be simple or it be intricate and bold. Some of the most famous Art nouveau lighting designers are Louis Tiffany, famous for eye catching and colourful glass shades, English manufacturer Faraday and Son who manufactured a wide range of table lamps and chandeliers. French designer Rene Lalique – famous for their delicate and distinctive glassware. Charles Rennie Mackintosh from the Glasgow School of Art – renowned not least for the Mackintosh rose motif.
Original Art Nouveau lighting is now over 100 years old and something of an investment piece. Placed in a contemporary and simple setting it is equally as sculptural and appealing as any decorative piece you may purchase for your home. Naturalistic designs are increasing in popularity so a leafy art nouveau chandelier will bring the outdoors inside and provide a calming environment against a neutral and minimal backdrop.
The emphasis of designers of art nouveau lighting was not only on design but also high quality. We will where possible, minimally restore lighting and then fully rewire and test prior to sale.
Take a look at our art nouveau lighting category in our ONLINE SHOP. Many of our art nouveau table lamps are complete with delicate vaseline glass shades and we are always happy to discuss switching shades to match with your colour scheme. We always rewire with antique style braided cable in traditional colours. If you would like to discuss any item in more detail, please get in touch.
