Art Nouveau Cast Iron Plaques by Mucha

• Mucha, Alphonse - Alphonse Mucha (1861 - 1931) was a Czechoslovakian born artist and illustrator who also worked in Paris and the United States. He is best known for his distinctively styled Art Nouveau paintings, illustrations, advertisements and designs.
  
  He also designed jewellery, textiles furniture and smaller decorative items.
• Art Nouveau Period - The Art Nouveau period was a cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th century, and was characterized by its emphasis on natural forms, flowing lines, and a decorative, ornamental style. Art Nouveau was a reaction against the ornate and heavily stylized designs of the previous era, and sought to create a new, more organic aesthetic.
  
  Art Nouveau was characterized by its use of sinuous, curving lines, as well as a focus on natural elements such as flowers, vines, and other organic shapes. Art Nouveau designers sought to create a total work of art, in which every element of a building or object was designed to be harmonious with the overall design.
  
  Some of the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau design include the Paris Metro entrances designed by Hector Guimard, the works of the artist Alphonse Mucha, and the architecture of Victor Horta in Brussels.
  
  The Art Nouveau period was at its peak between 1890 and 1910, but began to decline in popularity by the start of World War I. However, Art Nouveau remains an important influence on design and art to this day, and continues to be celebrated for its emphasis on natural forms and decorative style.

This item has been included into following indexes:

• cast iron - sculpture and statuary 91
• plaques - wood, enamel etc. 85
• sculpture - other 651