Art Deco is a style that emerged in the 1920s and continued through the 1930s. It is characterized by its modernist, sleek, and glamorous designs that were popular in everything from furniture, fashion, and architecture to advertising, jewelry, and even transportation. One of the iconic motifs of Art Deco is the star, which was used as a decorative element in a wide range of mediums. In this article, we will delve deeper into the world of Art Deco stars and their significance in the era.

The Origins of Art Deco Stars

The use of stars as a design element is not exclusive to Art Deco, but the style did popularize the motif through its many applications. One of the inspirations for the use of stars in Art Deco lay in the fascination with astronomy and futurism during the period. Another was the influence of ancient Egyptian, African, and Aztec cultures, which featured star symbols in their art and architecture.

Applications of Art Deco Stars

Art Deco stars could be found in many different forms, from jewelry to furniture. One of the most well-known applications is in architectural design, where stars were used as decorative elements in buildings, especially in the United States. In the famous New York skyline, for example, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Rockefeller Center all feature Art Deco stars on their facades.

Apart from architecture, Art Deco stars were also commonly used in furniture design, where they were often combined with geometric shapes and high-gloss finishes. The iconic sunburst mirror, a circular mirror surrounded by rays of light, is just one example of how the star motif was used to create elegant, modernist objects.

Art Deco Star Jewelry

Perhaps one of the most beloved applications of the Art Deco star motif is in jewelry. Art Deco stars were often adorned with diamonds and other precious stones, to create dazzling pieces of art. The asymmetrical designs and the use of platinum, a newly-discovered metal at the time, made Art Deco jewelry highly sought-after among the social elite.

One of the most notable examples of Art Deco star jewelry is the Cartier “Comet” brooch. This piece, which was designed in 1936, features a central diamond surrounded by rays of baguettes and smaller diamonds, arranged in a star-like pattern. It was owned by Hollywood actress Merle Oberon, who often wore it to important events.

The Legacy of Art Deco Stars

Although the Art Deco period only lasted for a little over a decade, its influence can still be seen in many fields today. The sleek, modernist designs of objects such as cars, buildings, and furniture, still capture the imagination of designers and artists. The Art Deco star motif, which once symbolized the futurism and glamour of the era, now serves as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the period.

In conclusion, the Art Deco star motif played a significant role in the design and aesthetic of the period. From architecture to jewelry, the star symbolized the fascination with astronomy and ancient cultures, as well as the desire for sleek, modernist design. Today, Art Deco stars continue to capture the imagination of people all over the world, serving as a testament to the creativity and innovation of the era.