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The Modern World During and After the World Wars, C. 1914–1960

Architecture and Design

What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco?

Art Nouveau and Art Deco were both design movements that flourished in the early twentieth century. Art Nouveau was established before Art Deco, and even influenced it. Art Nouveau designs tend to be busier and more ornate, with curving, organic lines. Art Nouveau artists include Alphonse Mucha and Théophile Alexandre Steinlen (the designer of the still-popular Tournée du Chat Noir posters). Art Deco is also ornamental; however, it tends to be more geometric due to the influence of Cubism and Futurism. Art Deco was popular during the Great Depression; the Empire State Building, completed in 1931, is an example of Art Deco architecture as are many of the jewelry designs of Georges Fouquet and many poster designs of the era.



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