It is quite common for artists and designers to take inspiration on nature and everyday life to create new collections and pieces of art. But lately, drawing inspiration from past art movements in particular seems to be coming back into fashion. Art Nouveau and Art Deco, are two different movements yet they are closely intertwined as they are both modern art styles that attempt to infuse artistic touches into functional objects.

  • Art Nouveau
  • Art Deco

Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau is a very important art movement that took place from 1890 to approximately 1905. It is said to have been a crucial predecessor, if not an integral component, of modernism.

Artists drew inspiration from geometric and organic forms, as there was a natural flow in their drawings that resembled the stems and blossoms of flowers. Art Nouveau artists really tried to revive workmanship after centuries of fine arts such as painting and sculpture, being the main drivers in the artistic world.

The style did not last as long as other movements may have but it paved the way for Art Deco just a decade later.

Designers today take inspiration from Art Nouveau and in particular the organic and floral components of this movement. Which, combined with modern technologies and ideas, really creates some innovative jewellery collections that remain timeless throughout the years.

In the BAUNAT design collections especially the Nathu collection by Wouters & Hendrix and the Flowers collection are fine examples of Art Nouveau inspired jewellery. These rings, bracelets, necklaces and earring feature the smooth and undulating lines of plants and flowers.

Art Deco

Art Deco followed right after or actually even started while Art Nouveau was still popular, in 1900 and spanned over a period of 45 years. The Art Deco style originated in Paris, but it is one of those art movements that has influenced both culture and architecture as a whole all over Europe.

Art Deco jewellery and art are influenced by modernism with their geometrical, symmetrical, sometimes simple but beautiful lines. The whole purpose of Art Deco was actually to create something that is visually pleasing without it being too complicated.

Art Deco has been an inspiration for modern day jewellers to create fabulous geometrical jewellery collections for years now and in particular when it comes to engagement rings. In fact, the symmetry, the simplification of the design and the angular structure proved perfect for trilogy engagement rings as well as solitaire engagement rings.

Both movements have been influencing artists for decades, but lately they have emerged again as people are looking for vintage looking, glamorous and elegant jewellery collections.

The beautiful symmetry of e.g. our 1ct solitaire ring with side diamonds could act as an example of Art Deco influence. The simplicity yet stylishness of the design is typical for this art movement. Another engagement ring with features of Art Deco is the solitaire ring with a 3.00 carat princess cut diamond.

Do you own an Art Deco or an Art Nouveau inspired piece of jewellery? BAUNAT works with talented Belgian designers to create wonderful pieces that are inspired by nature, life and various art movements. Have a look through our jewellery collections for the most beautiful pieces and do not hesitate to contact us should you have any questions.

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