Art Deco furniture remains one of the most coveted styles for collectors and design enthusiasts, known for its luxurious materials, sleek lines, and bold geometric shapes. These iconic pieces, often created by master craftsmen, continue to fetch top dollar at auctions due to their rarity and timeless appeal. From elegant armchairs to intricate cabinets, the value of these items only increases as they become harder to find. Whether crafted with exotic woods, glass, or bronze, each piece is a work of art that reflects the opulence of the Art Deco era.
Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann Armchairs
Jacques-Emile Ruhlmann is known for his luxurious Art Deco designs, and his armchairs are among the most coveted pieces in the market today. These chairs, often made with exotic woods like Macassar ebony and upholstered in fine silk or leather, exude opulence and refinement. A pair of these armchairs can fetch upwards of $250,000 at auction due to their craftsmanship and limited availability. Some chairs sold at Sotheby’s have even reached over $350,000, setting records for Art Deco furniture. Collectors seek out these chairs for their elegant lines, rich materials, and the prestige of owning a Ruhlmann original. Additionally, the intricate marquetry often found on the legs and arms adds to their high value. These often reflect the glamorous and sophisticated lifestyle of the Art Deco era. Their association with high-end clients from the 1920s only amplifies their desirability in today’s market.
Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann Vanity Tables
Another iconic creation by Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, his vanity tables are masterpieces of the Art Deco movement. Constructed with rare materials like ivory and rosewood, these can command prices between $150,000 to $300,000, depending on the specific model and condition. Each one is designed with a combination of function and beauty, featuring mirrored surfaces, intricate carvings, and hidden compartments. The rarity of these pieces, coupled with their condition, drives their value up, especially among collectors with a penchant for luxury furniture. The sleek, symmetrical design characteristic of the Art Deco style is present in each piece, reflecting the blend of art and practicality. Ruhlmann’s vanity tables are often found in major auctions and can generate significant competition among buyers. Some collectors have reported paying even higher prices for tables with original finishes and materials.
Eileen Gray ‘Dragon’ Armchair
Designed by the legendary Eileen Gray, the ‘Dragon’ armchair is one of the most famous Art Deco furniture pieces in existence. This striking chair sold at auction for a staggering $28 million in 2009, making it one of the most expensive chairs ever sold. It features a wooden frame intricately carved with dragon motifs, upholstered in luxurious leather. The unique blend of Asian-inspired details and sleek Art Deco lines makes this piece highly sought after by collectors. As one of Gray’s masterpieces, its value has only appreciated over time, with fewer than a dozen known to exist. Auction houses like Christie’s frequently highlight these chairs in their rare collections sales.
Jean Dunand Lacquered Cabinets
Jean Dunand’s lacquered cabinets are a fine representation of his work in the Art Deco style. His pieces are distinguished by their exceptional craftsmanship and the use of traditional lacquer techniques that make each cabinet a unique work of art. Prices for these cabinets can range from $100,000 to $500,000, depending on size, condition, and provenance. Some examples have even reached $600,000 in recent auctions, particularly those that are in pristine condition, and ones with authenticated provenance from prestigious collections often fetch the highest prices. Collectors value these cabinets for their bold geometric designs and vibrant colors, which were revolutionary during the Art Deco period. The intricate lacquerwork, sometimes enhanced with gold or silver leaf, reflects his mastery in blending form and function.
Rene Lalique Glass Console Tables
Rene Lalique, famous for his glasswork, also designed stunning Art Deco furniture pieces like his glass console tables. These are often made from etched or frosted glass, paired with materials like bronze or silver, giving them a striking visual appeal. These can sell for between $150,000 and $300,000, making them some of the most sought-after pieces in Art Deco collections. Some have even sold for over $400,000 in recent years due to their association with his renowned glasswork. The rarity of these pieces, combined with the exquisite craftsmanship, drives their value at auction. His signature glass motifs, often inspired by nature, add a level of artistry that collectors deeply appreciate. Many of his console tables are showcased in major design museums worldwide, adding to their allure.
Jean Michel Frank Sofas
Jean Michel Frank’s sofas are known for their minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and understated luxury. His designs often incorporate high-quality materials like shagreen, parchment, and leather, making his sofas both luxurious and comfortable. These pieces can fetch prices of $200,000 to $600,000, especially if they come from famous commissions or collaborations. Some rare examples have even reached prices close to $700,000, especially when sold in pristine condition. His work is celebrated for its simplicity, with an emphasis on form rather than ornamentation. His sofas are often found in the homes of influential figures from the 20th century, which adds to their value. Collectors appreciate the versatility of his pieces, as they seamlessly fit into both modern and traditional interiors.
Alberto Giacometti Lighting Sculptures
Although best known for his sculptures, Alberto Giacometti also created lighting pieces that have become iconic in the world of Art Deco furniture. His bronze floor lamps and sconces can sell for upwards of $200,000 to $500,000, depending on the specific design and condition. Some pieces have even sold for over $600,000 at auctions, making them some of the most expensive lighting fixtures in the world. These pieces feature his signature elongated forms and abstract detailing, making them highly sought after. Collectors value his lighting sculptures for their blend of functionality and fine art. His works have been featured in prestigious collections and museums, further enhancing their desirability. His association with renowned interior designers also contributes to the high demand for these items.
Pierre Legrain Bookcases
Pierre Legrain’s bookcases are standout pieces of Art Deco furniture, featuring bold geometric designs and luxurious materials like ebony and parchment. These bookcases typically sell for between $150,000 and $400,000, depending on their condition and provenance. Some of his rarest bookcases have sold for over $450,000, particularly those that feature original materials and finishes. He was known for his innovative use of materials, often incorporating metal accents and glass into his designs. His bookcases are both functional and decorative, making them highly prized among collectors. The clean lines and modern appeal of his designs make his pieces timeless, with many examples still found in high-end collections.
Edgar Brandt Fireplace Screens
Edgar Brandt is renowned for his wrought iron designs, and his fireplace screens are some of the most sought-after pieces of Art Deco furniture. These screens often feature intricate, nature-inspired designs, with motifs like flowers, leaves, and birds. Prices for his fireplace screens can range from $100,000 to $250,000, depending on the specific design and condition. In some cases, his more elaborate screens have sold for over $300,000, particularly those from private commissions. The hand-forged ironwork is a hallmark of his style, with each screen being a unique creation. His fireplace screens are often found in prestigious collections and have been featured in major design exhibitions worldwide.
This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.
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