Definition:Art Nouveau

Art Nouveau dog collectibles date from roughly 1890–1910, the stylistic movement that preceded Art Deco and represented a wholesale rejection of Victorian historicism in favor of flowing organic form inspired by nature. Art Nouveau canine pieces are distinguished by sinuous, curving lines; a preference for asymmetry; and deep attention to natural animal movement. Continental European production dominates this category: French sculptors working in bronze — including pieces from the Barbedienne and Susse foundries — and Austro-German ceramicists produced dog-subject pieces of exceptional artistic ambition during this period. Art Nouveau dog jewelry — brooches, pendants, and hat pins in silver, gold, and enamel — is a distinct and highly collectible sub-category. Because the Art Nouveau period is now over 100 years past, all genuine pieces qualify as antique.