Art Deco’s bold revival: Why this 1920s style is captivating collectors again
Art deco, an aesthetic zeitgeist
On the 100th anniversary of the Paris World's Fair, Art Deco is experiencing a renaissance. Demand on the art market is increasing.
The art world is seeing a fresh wave of enthusiasm for Art Deco, a century after its heyday. This bold, geometric style from the early 1900s is now drawing strong interest from collectors and younger buyers alike. Recent sales figures show a sharp rise in demand, with revenues in the decorative arts category climbing over 20% in early 2025 alone.
Art Deco first became a defining aesthetic in the 1920s, known for its sleek lines, rich materials, and striking contrasts. The movement gained global attention at the 1925 Paris World’s Fair, and now, exactly 100 years later, it is making a comeback. Auction houses and specialist dealers—particularly in Germany and Switzerland—are reporting higher demand for authentic pieces by artists like Ruhlmann and Dunand in France, or Preiss and Zach in German-speaking regions.
The renewed interest in Art Deco has pushed prices higher and broadened its appeal across generations. With major exhibitions, record-breaking sales, and a mix of old and new buyers, the movement’s influence remains strong. Yet, challenges like ivory restrictions continue to shape how these iconic pieces change hands.
