Archives on Show: In Style - Art Nouveau to Art Deco

Our Archives on Show events are a chance for you to explore a wide range of materials from our collections by theme.

Each month you can see a handpicked display of original materials from our collections for you to browse at your own pace, and staff will be on hand to answer questions. Whether you are new to archives and curious to see what we hold, or you are an experienced researcher that wants to learn more, these relaxed events offer a chance for you to explore our collections by theme or format.

“More than an architectural movement, Art Deco was a style that developed between the wars to reflect the optimistic mood of the times. A sleeker more cosmopolitan development of the florid Art Nouveau movement, Art Deco celebrated the mechanisation of the modern age.”

It was originally known as 'Style Moderne' until 1925, when the ‘Exposition Internationale des Arts Decoratifs et Industriels Modernes’ held in Paris inspired the name as we know it today.

This display will showcase examples of both styles through photographs, plans, theatre programmes, in periodicals such as the Illustrated London News and ephemera held in the collections at The London Archives. Come and celebrate the birth of this style in the centenary year of Art Deco!

Booking: You can book for a one hour drop-in session at 1pm or 2pm to explore highlights from our collection.

Please note this is an opportunity to view documents only.