The Decorative Arts Dictionary is a comprehensive guide that covers 150 years of the decorative and applied arts. These articles provide an in-depth exploration of the evolution of decorative arts from the mid-19th century to the present day. It covers various topics, including furniture, ceramics, glassware, textiles, metalwork, and jewellery.
It offers a fascinating insight into how art movements have influenced decorative arts over time and how they continue to shape contemporary design today. Whether you are a collector, designer, or art enthusiast, these articles will surely provide you with a wealth of knowledge on this fascinating subject.
Dichroic glass, created using thin film physics, exhibits color-shifting properties. It finds applications in jewelry, architecture, fine art, and optical devices, combining art and technology.Read More →
Rattan, native to southern Asia, Malaysia, and China, is used for caning and weaving wicker furniture. Its strength and versatility make it popular worldwide.Read More →
Bracket feet in furniture feature a curved right-angled design, available in straight, ogee, or French styles, notably seen in Chippendale and Hepplewhite pieces.Read More →
Sgraffito is a scratched pottery decoration, first used in China, which spread across Europe via Persia. The vessel is immersed in slip, and then the decoration is scratched on the surface to reveal the darker body below. It was often used with maiolica from Italy.Read More →
Frederick Walton invented linoleum in 1860, offering a durable, easy-to-clean floor covering. Its evolution included designs by Thomas Armstrong, eventually replaced by resilient vinyl in later years.Read More →
The golden ratio, known for its aesthetic appeal, influences various fields including art, mathematics, and music, promoting harmony and balance in design composition.Read More →
The Sofa is without a doubt the most noticeable piece of furniture in the living room, and its reign as the centrepiece has long been unchallenged. This furniture standard may appear to have been around for a long time, yet it was once just a notion in someone’s head before it gained popularity and international recognition. Read More →
The artistic decoration known as arabesque features intricate floral and geometric designs, with origins in Spanish Islamic art and influence throughout Europe.Read More →
Pâte de verre is a glass-making technique involving several steps, resulting in delicate structures with intricate patterns. It was reintroduced by Henri Cros in the late 19th century.Read More →
Symmetry in design and nature creates balance and harmony, drawing attention and triggering intuitive excitement. However, over-reverence may lead to stagnation.Read More →