Belle Epoque to Deco!
Saw 2 movies this past week: Cheri with Michelle Pfieffer and Rupert Friend —
—and Public Enemies with Johnny Depp and Marion Cotillard —
While I wouldn’t add either of them to my favorite films list, both were period pieces with marvelous sets and fabulous costume design! And that got me to thinking . . .
The era of Cheri — the Belle Époque (late 1880’s up to about 1914) was a precursor to the Deco Era (1920’s to late 1930’s) in which Public Enemies took place. As both eras were extremely rich artistically (in my humble opinion nothing since then has rivaled them), I thought it would be fascinating to nose about a bit as to the stylistic differences in interiors, art, fashion and jewelry between the two eras. I didn’t set out to make this posting so long, but as I got into it, found so many cool images and ideas—well, one thing just led to another . . . so here it is!
To me the Belle Époque was characterized by sumptuous interiors—
With lots of gorgeous accessories —
As to art: the images of nature that the Impressionists are so known for —
Contrasted with a sophisticated and active urban social scene—
Clothing was elegant, with beautiful lines and workmanship, although women were still constrained by corsets—
Jewelry—lots of glitter (not to be confused with bling)—
—and enamel, echoing the shapes of nature with the same sophistication of the times —
One era spilled into the other — the Deco era defined by the stirrings of modernism (but not yet blighted by it—again my humble opinion) —
Interiors where line and form were as important as the individual elements—
The poster became a handy venue for artists—
Clothes for women? The dress changed shape as corsets went the way of Strauss Waltzes and women began to dance to Jazz . . . “Do you hear the beat, of dancing feet . . . on the avenue I’m takin’ you to . . . 42nd street! . . .”
But jewelry didn’t seem to change that much. Tiffany Studios were still in full swing,
The Sautoir was even more popular, although looking a little like the Chrysler Building — this one of lapis, diamonds and white gold from the Tadema Collection—
And shorter necklaces were still delightfully inventive, like this beautiful antique glass, diamond and enamel floral necklace —
I think of the Belle Epoque and the Art Deco era as two of the greatest times for design in recent history, where great art met innovative architecture, met fashion, met interiors, met theater and dance (didn’t even go there yet)!
From inspirations of the art of those times, we can fly!!
Posted: July 14th, 2009 under Uncategorized.