Ancient Egypt's influence on Art Deco

Art Deco encompasses the distinctive and notable decorative style that was embodied across the spectrum of visual arts within architecture, fashion, painting and decorative arts (Glennon. J, Art Deco Movement Overview And Analysis). The style itself embraced geometric forms, bold colours, repeat patterns and gold detailing, all of which are reflective of Egyptian hieroglyphics. The 1920’s-30’s art movement coincided with the discovery of Tutankhamun Tomb and, consequently, this monumental event renewed the interest surrounding Ancient Egyptian Culture. Rediscovery of motifs that were prominent within Egyptian culture prompted similarities to be drawn between the features of Art Deco. Symmetrical, geometric and streamline design was a result of the movement that led to other design approaches such as midcentury modernism.

(Mask of Tutankhamun)

The Exotic nature spread through every aspect of design, through animal motifs that have maintained popularity, lotus flowers and eccentric feathers (V&A ‘Art Deco’s Global Influences’). Much of the decorative style was borrowed from African cultures mainly due to the popularity that was prominent at the time, prompting the success and general admiration towards the style. The decadence made it desirable and this can be seen through its prevalence in other arts such as literature. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s ‘The Great Gatsby’, set in the roaring twenties centred the novel around the opulent atmosphere generated from the Art Deco style.

Although references to De Stijl and futurism were suggested, it was subtle and it is undoubtedly Ancient Egyptian artistic influence where inspiration was drawn. I believe the best way to describe the movement of the early 20th Century would be a combination of Ancient Egyptian imagery and modern materials and techniques which modernised and redefined the style. Art Deco epitomised exoticism and luxury, mirroring the mystique and allure associated with Ancient Egyptian design culture, demonstrates clearly the correlation between contemporary movements and historical design culture.

(The Chrysler Building, New York)

References:

Glennon. J, The Art Story Contributors, 2016, ‘Art Deco Movement Overview And Analysis’, https://www.theartstory.org/movement/art-deco/ 

Roberts. J, ‘Art Deco;s Fascination with Ancient Egypt’, Understanding Jewellery, https://www.understanding-jewellery.com/articles/art-decos-fascination-with-ancient-egypt/ 

V&A, ‘Art Deco’s Global Influences’, Victoria and Albert Museum, https://www.vam.ac.uk/articles/art-deco-global-influences/