Art Deco

More of this Feature • Part 1: Back to the Future • Part 2: Echoes from the Tomb • Part 3: King Tut Goes Mod

Join the Discussion "Do you think the use of icons in architecture is the worst thing to do? Does iconism show creativity in the designer?" -- KEVZZ

Related Resources • Bauhaus Architecture • Chrysler Building • Empire State Building

From Other Guides • King Tut's Tomb • Art Deco Fashions

Skyscrapers built during the 1920s and early 1930s may not have the brilliant colors or zigzag designs we associate with the Art Deco style. However, the top of these buildings often took on a distinctive Art Deco shape: The ziggurat.

The Empire State Building, New York City
© 2000- www.arttoday.com

A ziggurat is a terraced pyramid with each story smaller than the one below it. Art Deco skyscrapers may have complex groupings of rectangles or trapezoids. Sometimes two contrasting materials are used to create subtle bands of color, a strong sense of line, or the illusion of pillars. The logical progression of steps and the rhythmical repetition of shapes suggest ancient architecture, yet also celebrate a new, technological era.

An Art Deco Ziggurat : The Louisiana State Capitol
© 2000- www.arttoday.com

Art Deco is an eclectic style -- a conglomeration of influences from many cultures and historic periods. It's easy to overlook the Egyptian elements in the design of a posh theater or a streamlined diner. But the tomblike shape of twentieth century "ziggurats" make it clear that the world was in a tizzy over King Tut.

Back to beginning > Back to the Future > Page 1, 2, 3, 4

Text copyright © Jackie Craven