Hello!
How can I, simply by looking at some furniture, know that it is Arts & Craft, or Art Nouveau or Art Deco. Those three movements seem to have some kind of acquaintance. Is there a type of wood, some ornamental details?

I seem to be less and less able to differentiate them.

The differences are great once you know what you are looking for, as this forum and site are related to arts and crafts you can find many examples of what makes an arts and crafts piece. The method of construction and the refreshing lack of ornamentation, clean lines and the skill of the craftsman's hand. The industrial age brought forth mass production of furniture and decorative items, made quickly and cheaply. The idea was to return to a time when things were made by hand and with attention to details. Art Nouveau and Art Deco came a little later in that order I believe and relied on sweeping lines, curves and much laminates and cheaper construction (ie no dove tails, glue and screws for construction as opposed to tenons)The facing boards were constructed with plywood veneers of tiger maple walnut and cherry. Nice looks with clean lines but dated. A quick search in google of the styles you mention will show you the differences that you can see rather than read. But there are histories of the Arts and Crafts Movement here on the site that will help you understand. I hope you enjoy the research!

Dano

Julie,
Welcome.

Interesting that you should ask that question. I have just published a new article on the site that was written in 1917, by an interior designer. It describes "Mission Style" furniture, and also tries to differentiate "Craftsman" from it. I also added some nice images of projects that can be made today from Mission Furniture and How to Make It from 1909.


Link to article: Mission Style Furniture

Regards,
Lauren

Many thanks for the references. It's been some good reading!

Julie-Soleil