Art Deco
Art Deco is a popular design style from the 1920s and 1930s known for its bold geometric shapes, bright colors, and luxurious materials. When mentioned in resumes for antique dealing positions, it refers to knowledge of this specific design period's furniture, jewelry, artwork, and decorative items. The style bridges the gap between traditional antiques and modern design, making it particularly valuable in today's market. Similar styles include Art Nouveau and Streamline Moderne. Understanding Art Deco is crucial for pricing, authenticating, and selling items from this period.
Examples in Resumes
Specialized in identifying and appraising Art Deco jewelry and decorative pieces
Curated a successful exhibition of Art Deco furniture and lighting fixtures
Developed expertise in authenticating Art Deco and Deco-period items
Typical job title: "Art Deco Specialists"
Also try searching for:
Where to Find Art Deco Specialists
Professional Organizations
Online Marketplaces
Professional Networks
Example Interview Questions
Expert Level Questions
Q: How do you authenticate a piece as genuine Art Deco versus a later reproduction?
Expected Answer: An expert should discuss examining construction methods, materials used in the period, patina, signatures or marks, and provide specific examples of authentication techniques. They should also mention common reproduction tells and value factors.
Q: What market trends have you observed in Art Deco collecting over the past decade?
Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of price trends, popular items, emerging collector interests, and how the market has evolved. Should include understanding of international market differences and investment potential.
Intermediate Level Questions
Q: What are the key characteristics that distinguish Art Deco from Art Nouveau?
Expected Answer: Should explain the main differences in design elements, time periods, and materials used. Should be able to provide specific examples of distinguishing features in furniture, jewelry, and decorative items.
Q: How do you determine the value of an Art Deco piece?
Expected Answer: Should discuss factors like condition, rarity, designer/maker, materials, provenance, and current market demand. Should mention using price guides and auction records as references.
Entry Level Questions
Q: What are the main characteristics of Art Deco style?
Expected Answer: Should be able to describe basic features like geometric patterns, bold colors, stepped forms, and typical materials used. Should mention common decorative elements and motifs.
Q: What materials are commonly found in Art Deco pieces?
Expected Answer: Should list materials like chrome, bakelite, exotic woods, glass, and precious metals. Should understand how these materials were typically used in different types of items.
Experience Level Indicators
Junior (0-2 years)
- Basic identification of Art Deco pieces
- Understanding of common materials and patterns
- Knowledge of price guides and basic valuation
- Familiarity with major Art Deco designers
Mid (2-5 years)
- Detailed knowledge of Art Deco sub-styles
- Authentication of common pieces
- Market value assessment
- Understanding of restoration techniques
Senior (5+ years)
- Expert authentication abilities
- Advanced knowledge of rare pieces
- International market expertise
- High-value item appraisal skills
Red Flags to Watch For
- Unable to identify basic Art Deco characteristics
- Lack of knowledge about important designers and makers
- No understanding of authentication methods
- Poor awareness of current market values and trends
Related Terms
Need more hiring wisdom? Check these out...
Why Your Hiring Process is a Maze (And How Design Thinking Can Turn It into a Superhighway)
Redefining Team Collaboration in a Digital Workspace
The Art of Selecting Great People: A Leader's Most Critical Skill
