Art Nouveau (French for 'new art') is an international style of art, architecture and design that was most popular in Europe. It is characterised by highly-stylised, flowing, curvilinear designs often incorporating floral motifs. It is based on the flowing lines found in nature.
Art Nouveau did not detest the use of machines as the Arts and Crafts Movement did, but used it to its advantage. For sculpture, the principal materials employed were glass and wrought iron, leading to sculptural qualities even in architecture.
Art Nouveau is considered a 'total' style, meaning that it encompasses architecture; interior design; decorative arts including jewellery, furniture, textiles, household silver and other utensils, and lighting; and the range of visual arts.
Art Nouveau is frequently referred to as 'feminine art' due to its frequent use of female figures in a pre-Raphaelite pose, with long flowing hair. |
