Unfortunately, the most sought-after pieces are still prey to counterfeiters today; we can only advise you to protect yourself from an unpleasant surprise by always demanding an invoice containing as much detail as possible and clearly stating the year of manufacture.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?
In short, Art Nouveau is characterized by curved lines and sculptures inspired by nature or animals, while Art Deco is characterized by geometric, cubic and very clean lines.
When was art nouveau born?
Art Nouveau has its roots in the "Arts and Crafts" movement which emerged in England in the mid-19th century, in opposition to the development of increasing industrialization in Europe.
The first use of the term Art Nouveau appeared in the Belgian newspaper L'Art Moderne in 1884.
How long did art nouveau last?
Although after 1905 the style tended to modernize, it was the beginning of the First World War in 1914 that brought the period to an end.
The antiques glossary
Do not hesitate to ask us questions to enrich our glossary
Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau is an artistic movement of the late 19th and early 20th centuries that draws on naturalist aesthetics, often characterized by curved lines.
Born as a reaction against the excesses of industrialization and the stifling reproduction of classical styles, it was a sudden, rapid movement that experienced international development.
Nancy School
The Nancy school or provincial alliance of art industries is the spearhead of art nouveau in France.
The essential inspiration is to be found in plant and animal forms.
This alliance is based on extensive research into use in glassware, furniture, painting, ironwork, sculpture and ceramics, to put beauty in the hands of everyone and thus bring art into homes .
Art Deco
Art Deco is an artistic movement born during the 1910s and which came into full bloom after the First World War before declining from the 1930s.
It is the first architecture-decoration movement of a global nature.
The Art Deco style takes its name from the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts which was held in Paris in 1925.
Longwy enamels
In the heart of Lorraine, Longwy was a major ceramic center in the 19th and 20th centuries.
Founded in 1798, the Faïencerie initially produced classic pieces such as table services.
Around 1870, in response to the French craze for cloisonné products from the Far East, the factory applied the principle of partitioning or circling for decorations to earthenware.
The notoriety of Earthenware has attracted the greatest artists who love the material and the technique, create shapes and decorations... to this day!