Paris became the European capital of arts, fashion and entertainment in the 1920s attracting artists, designers and performers from around the world. In the 'Exposition internationales des arts décoratif et industriels modernes' of 1925, the French sought to create a style that was truly reflective of both the highly refined skills of the country's artisans and of the progressive ideals of industrialization. This exhibition marked a turning point in the history of modernism in design throughout the Western world.

This floral and geometric wallpaper sample is from a French wallpaper sample book titled 'K.L. Nouveautés 1930-31'. The book promotes the latest and newest releases (both top quality and middle range designs) of 'K.L', a [French] paint and wallpaper manufacturer, retailer and supplier. The sumptuous Art Deco designs of the book highlight the exuberant colours, patterns, textures and graphic styles available for interior decoration in France during the early 1930s.

Many of the wallpaper samples in the book feature gold and silver highlights luxuriously printed in low relief on vividly coloured and boldly patterned screen printed designs. Some of the samples have illustrations of sumptuous interiors attached to them that demonstrate the opulent effects that can be generated by combining a selection of different, though complimentary, wallpaper designs within a single room.

Wallpaper sample, Art Deco style floral and geometric design with diagonal composition, screen printed in grey, yellow and shades of blue, from 'K.L. Nouveautés 1930-31' sample book, paper, France, 1930-1931

Made: 1930 - 1931

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1930 - 1931