Collection: Art Nouveau

The Art Nouveau period of design marked a refreshing departure from the slightly fussy and restrained designs of the Victorian era. The name of the style is derived from Samuel Bing's shop in Paris, "La Maison de L'Art Nouveau", in which much of the original work of this era was exhibited. The style was created as a complete break from the past, in which artists sought to create a unified style for all areas of art and life - painting, textiles, glass, homeware, even jewellery and fashion clothing.

The style itself can be characterised as using long sinuous sweeping curves. Vertical emphasis is often given, with intricate patterns repeating in that dimension. Nature is the usual source of inspiration, especially vines, plant tendrils and stems, flowers such as poppies and roses.

Art Nouveau fabrics look stunning in period homes but also, because of their timeless forms, they look wonderful in modern homes too.