Furniture
The style moderne, which encompasses Art Nouveau remained experimental, a style of theorists. It was the only original development in the domain of furniture design. The great furniture makers of the period include Majorelle, Vallin, Gallé, Gaillard and Cona. The Belle Epoque, that period of prosperity and gaiety surrounding the turn of the century, came to a close with the arrival of World War I (1914-1918).

Materials and Techniques
All materials and techniques were used by furniture-makers of the day that produced furniture inspired by every conceivable style throughout history. Craftsmen revived forgotten techniques. They also were adept at producing imitation Gothic, Renaissance and Louis XV work on an industrial scale. Brazilian mahogany came back into fashion. Oak, walnut and pear wood were also used. Ebony, sycamore and walnut were used for marquetry.

Metalwork became the "modern" material. Iron, steel, bronze, and cast iron were incorporated into furniture forms. Metal was fashioned into ribbons, serpentine columns, volutes, and scrolling foliage. It was usually left untreated. Copper, pewter and silver now became rare in furniture.

Ornament
Two themes dominate in the ornament of the 1900 style: Christian imagery incorporating Gothic and Renaissance elements and the nude. The rose motif is prevalent.

Motifs of the style moderne (and Art Nouveau) are inspired by the botanical. Marine plants such as water lilies and seaweeds as well as tropical vines and branches bare of leaves are prominent. Orchids and other exotic plants appear frequently. Eventually these botanical designs are transformed into loose and flowing women's hair. Geometric ornament disappears entirely. The rose disappears along with other familiar garden flowers except for the tulip in the Art Nouveau style.


Source: Chadenet, Sylvie. French Furniture from Louis XIII to Art Deco. Boston: Little, Brown and Company, 2001.