Art Nouveau

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Though relatively short lived, the Art Nouveau style, which appeared in the 1880s and faded out by the First World War, had a dramatic impact, influencing not only the decorative arts, but also painting and sculpture, jewelry design, architecture, fashion and advertising. A response to the changes brought on by the Industrial Revolution, Art Nouveau was characterized by flowing, abstract shapes and sinuous forms. Exotic woods, iridescent glass, silver and gems provided the medium for the period’s exquisite creations.

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