Arts and Crafts Lamps and The History of Art Nouveau

The Arts and Crafts era began in England duringrevolution. He was followed by other proponents
the late 1800's. Simple clean designs and individualof these ideas: John Ruskin (1819-1900), William
craftsmanship that employed aspects of natureMorris (1834-1896) and Phillip Webb. Morris was
were the main characteristics of this designthe most popular name associated with this
period. This new movement was in directmovement.
contrast to the mass production of products thatThis new style of art spread throughout Europe
was made possible by the industrial revolution.and was named Art Nouveau (new art) by the
This new art, (Art Nouveau in French) was alsoFrench. Each country and region had its own
many ways a relief from the lavishly ornatestyles and variations of this new art movement.
designs of the Victorian era which preceded.During the late 1800's, America was basically
The industrial revolution had dehumanized theimporting its artistic and home furnishings designs
process of manufacturing especially as it relatesfrom England and Europe. Colonial and Shaker
to home decor products. It broke down the workdesigns were the only truly American styles at
process into various components by processesthat time. Gustav Stickley's simple and clean
called the "division of labor". Workers were able tofurniture designs exemplified the Arts and Crafts
work on only a portion of a complete product.style in America.
The Arts and Crafts movement was a rebuttalThere were a number of remarkable lamp
of this dehumanizing process as it was concernedcompanies of that period. Their products are very
specifically with the human element of a personcollectible and highly sought after today. Many of
creating an entire product from start to finish.these collectible Arts and Crafts Lamps or Art
The architect Augustus Pugin (1812-1852) wasNouveau Lamps that sold for $ 15 - $ 25 in the
one of the first outspoken leaders in speaking1920's may now sell for many $ 1,000's and much
against the dehumanizing aspect of the industrialmore.