Author Description

This definitive, in-depth study is the first to look at Art Nouveau from a truly international perspective, analysing its literary, philosophical, social and artistic origins. Divided into key sections covering sources, masterpieces in different media and the urban centres where Art Nouveau flourished, the lavishly illustrated text explores the phenomenon of Art Nouveau from its inception to its collapse. Outstanding examples of jewellery, ceramics, furniture, glass, metalwork, sculpture, prints, paintings and textiles illustrate the enormous impact of the style in cities across Europe and America from Brussels, Glasgow and Prague to Chicago and New York. Leading artists and designers, including Aburey Beardsley, Antoni Gaudi, Victor Horta, Rene Lalique, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Louis Comfort Tiffany, are examined, and their works are seen together as glorious components of an extraordinary whole. This beautiful book features some of the earliest examples of Art Nouveau - collected by the V&A just as the style was emerging - and also includes many unusual pieces from other institutions and individuals across the globe. It is both an essential work of reference and a wonderful visual feast.