Art Nouveau developed in the late 1880s and was at its creative height in the subsequent decade. By 1905 it was beginning to be replaced by an aesthetic more in keeping with the new century, but the influence it had during its brief 20-year history should not be underestimated. Art Nouveau was a new design style for a much-changed world. 100 years of industrialisation had created a new class of people with new money to spend, yet the products on offer to them were revivals of old styles: Classical, Gothic, Renaissance or Baroque. Art Nouveau was somethig genuinely new; it was the first style that did not seem to have its roots sunk deeply into European history.

Analyses the distinctive Art Nouveau design style, showing how the movement rejected straight line and right-angle in favour of natural, elegant curves.

Explores Art Nouveau's relationship with technological developments, showing how the design style reacted against aspects of industrial manufacturing but harnessed the new mass production processes and modern communications to become a truly international movement.

Includes over 300 stunning photographs showing items as diverse as buildings, furniture, metalwork, jewellery, glass and ceramics.

Features the work of the most influential and admired Art Nouveau craftsmen.