French Art Deco

An essential survey of French Art Deco, with alluring photographs that render it an art object in its own right

The French Art Deco style, which encapsulates the complex, modern sensibilities of the early 20th century, is epitomized by the French works exhibited at the Paris 1925 Exposition Internationale des Arts D coratifs et Industriales. The exquisite craftsmanship and artistry of the dazzling works displayed spoke to a sophisticated modernity, yet they were rooted in tradition. Interest in Art Deco has not only endured to the present day, but has grown steadily, and the style is now better known and more collected than ever before.

This informative publication provides an introduction to the historical backdrop for the Art Deco movement and outlines the most salient aspects of the aesthetic. Sumptuous, all-new photography features over one hundred masterpieces, created by forty-five artists, from the Metropolitan Museum of Art's renowned collection. Each chapter focuses on a specific designer, and includes a biography and discussions of the objects, enlivened by generous quotes from contemporary writings. As one of the only English volumes devoted to French Art Deco, this is a significant contribution to the study and appreciation of the style.

Jared Goss is an independent scholar and former associate curator in the Department of Modern and Contemporary Art at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.