Art Nouveau Jewelry

The Art Nouveau Period 1890-1910

Art Nouveau which literally translates to New Art was an aesthetic movement that developed in the late 19th Century as a reaction to the strict social customs and artistic styles of the late Victorian and Edwardian Periods.

As a decorative style Art Nouveau could be observed in architecture, furniture, accessories and jewelry.  Asian art was especially influential with its free flowing asymetrical lines, naturalistic designs, and enameling techniques.  The Arts and Crafts movement was also influential with its emphasis on hand craftsmanship and artisanship. 

Art Nouveau design emcompassed many distinct features including a focus on the female form and on nature.  Common motifs included orchids, irises, pansies, vines, swans, peacocks, snakes, dragonflies and the female silhouette.  Another common motif was the mythological creature the griffin or chimera.  There was also an emphasis on color in jewelry of the period, most commonly rendered through the use of various ennamelling techniques including basse-taille, champleve, cloisonne and plique a jour.

The sensuous, exotic and expressionistic design of the Art Nouveau Period, particularly in jewelry designed by Rene Lalique and Lucien Gautrait make these pieces highly sought after by collectors.

Art Nouveau Brooches

Art Nouveau Rings

Art Nouveau Pendants