Art Deco Furniture 1930's

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Post on Jan 27, 2025

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Art Deco Furniture of the 1930s: A Style Icon

The 1930s – a decade of glamour, geometric shapes, and streamlined designs. This era saw the Art Deco style reach its zenith, influencing everything from architecture and fashion to, most strikingly, furniture. This article delves into the defining characteristics of Art Deco furniture from the 1930s, exploring its materials, iconic pieces, and lasting legacy.

The Defining Characteristics of 1930s Art Deco Furniture

Art Deco furniture of the 1930s is instantly recognizable for its bold geometric forms, luxurious materials, and sophisticated craftsmanship. Key features include:

• Geometric Shapes: Think clean lines, sharp angles, stepped forms, and repeating patterns. Rectangles, zigzags, chevrons, and sunbursts are all prevalent motifs. Symmetry is often emphasized, creating a sense of balance and order.

• Luxurious Materials: High-quality materials were crucial. Expect to find:

  • Exotic Woods: Macassar ebony, rosewood, and burl walnut were particularly popular, showcasing rich grain and deep color.
  • Metals: Chrome, stainless steel, and brass were frequently incorporated, adding a sense of modernity and shine. These metals were often used for legs, handles, and decorative accents.
  • Inlays: Intricate inlays of mother-of-pearl, ivory, or other precious materials further enhanced the luxurious feel.
  • Upholstery: High-quality leather, velvet, and silk were commonly used, often in rich colors like deep reds, emerald greens, and golds.

• Streamlined Forms: A sense of movement and speed is often conveyed through the furniture's design. Curved lines, though less prevalent than geometric shapes, were used to create a feeling of fluidity and elegance.

• Emphasis on Functionality: While undeniably glamorous, Art Deco furniture was also designed to be functional. Pieces were often built with practicality in mind, integrating storage and incorporating clever design features.

Iconic Pieces of 1930s Art Deco Furniture

Several iconic pieces epitomize the Art Deco style of the 1930s:

• Sideboards and Credenzas: These often featured mirrored doors, geometric inlays, and sleek metal handles. They served as both practical storage and stunning focal points in a room.

• Cocktail Cabinets: The rise of cocktail culture in the 1930s led to the creation of stylish bar cabinets, frequently showcasing mirrored backs, built-in shelving, and glamorous metal accents.

• Armchairs and Sofas: Characterized by their low, sleek silhouettes and often featuring curved backs and plush upholstery.

• Coffee Tables: Often featuring glass tops and geometric metal bases, these tables were designed to be both functional and visually striking.

Where to Find 1930s Art Deco Furniture Today

Finding authentic 1930s Art Deco furniture can be a rewarding but challenging pursuit. Here are some places to look:

• Antique Shops and Dealers: These are excellent sources for authentic pieces, but be prepared to pay a premium for high-quality, well-preserved items.

• Auction Houses: Auction houses frequently feature Art Deco furniture, offering a wide range of pieces at varying price points. Researching catalogs beforehand is essential.

• Online Marketplaces: Sites like eBay and Etsy can be good sources, but careful vetting is crucial to avoid fakes or damaged items. Always request high-resolution images and detailed descriptions.

The Enduring Appeal of 1930s Art Deco Furniture

The enduring appeal of 1930s Art Deco furniture lies in its timeless elegance, sophisticated craftsmanship, and bold aesthetic. Its unique blend of geometric precision and luxurious materials continues to inspire designers and collectors today, ensuring its place as a style icon. Whether you are a seasoned collector or simply appreciate beautiful design, the furniture of the 1930s offers a glimpse into a glamorous era and a lasting legacy of style.

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