When we think of Art Deco style furniture we immediately conjure up images of the famous designers in Paris who participated in the 1925 Exposition Des Arts et Decoratifs including, Émile- Jacques Ruhlmann, Edgar Brandt, Sue et Mare and Jules Léleu. In America, we think of the Chrysler Building and Donald Deskey’s interiors at Radio City Music Hall, which epitomized the Art Deco style in the states. Although it has gained more popularity in recent years, many people don’t think about the beautiful Art Deco designs that were coming out of Sweden around the same time.
Scandinavian Art Deco, otherwise known as “Swedish Grace” style (1920-29) produced an exquisite range of furniture and interior design that rivaled the work of French and American designers. Swedish Grace was a counter reaction to the earlier “Jugend”free flowing, Art Nouveau style. Just like the Louis XVI and Directoire periods were a reaction to the excesses and splendors of the baroque and rococo periods in France, with their simplified lines and lack of excessive ornament.
Swedish Grace furniture is characterized by its streamlined classicism, simplified forms, refined and delicate inlays and contrasting veneers. There are also strong influences from the German Biedermeier movement in the early 19th century. The most notable Swedish Art Deco designers include: Alvar Andersson, Axel Einar Hjorth, Carl Bergsten, Otar Hokerberg, Carl Malmsten and Förenade Möbelfabrikerna Linköping.
There are a number of dealers who happen to specialize in Swedish Grace style furniture including, HM Luther, B4 20th Century Design and Gallery Bac in New York.
