Tuesday, November 23, 2010

Sensual Art Nouveau

If you've been to Paris you will have seen the wonderful Metro station designs of Hector Guimard, so sensuous with their curls and swirls.






Hector Guimard's style epitomizes Art Nouveau for me. I want to run my hands over those shapes!

Art Nouveau flourished as an international style movement from about 1890 - 1905, and is characterized by it's organic, floral and curvilear motifs. The style includes the likes of Jugendstil (Germany), the wonderful output of Liberty in London, the work of Tiffany studios, and one of my favorites would be the Glasgow movement of which Charles Rennie Mackintosh was the top!



There are some interesting ways - big and small- to add some Art Nouveau curves to your home at upcoming auctions!


This wonderfully simple French Art Nouveau mirror is being offered in the next Christies Interiors sale in New York December 16th and 17th. It has an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500 and is offered without reserve. It's 39.5" tall x 29.25" wide. I love the proportions and subtle curves, along with the carved floral touches. 


This lovely French Art Nouveau salon suite, circa 1900, would be even more of a style statement. This fruitwood settee and two chairs are included in the Bonhams 20th Century Decorative Arts sale, and they have an auction estimate of $4,000 - $6,000. The backs are wonderfully shaped and have fantastic carved detail.

This French Art Nouveau plum-pudding mahogany chest of drawers, circa 1900, is included in the next New York Christies Interiors sale. It has subtle curves, wonderful handles, and two great spaces to display an Art Nouveau vase or two! It has an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500. I see this is a living or dining room.



These Continental Art Nouveau fruitwood stands could fit in anywhere. They have lovely carving and stand 45.75" tall. They could sit either side of a sofa with some wonderful lamps on them. These are included in the Bonhams 20th Century Decorative Arts sale in New York, and have an auction estimate of $1,000 - $1,500.



Bonhams 20th C. Decorative Arts - Lot 4065

I just had to end with some knock out color. This pair of Tiffany Studios leaded Favrile glass and faceted" jewel" windows is being offered in the Bonhams sale. I include them just because they grabbed my attention. They are way out of my price range with an auction estimate of $10,000 - $15,000. They are just gorgeous!

There is so much about all the Art Nouveau styles that were practiced around the world to love. Add some curves to your home at auction!


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