The novelty of Art Nouveau derived in part from its innovative approach to the very concept of art. More than just a style, it eliminated the barriers between fine and applied arts and embodied a new way of thinking about modern society and production methods. Art Nouveau attempted nothing less than the redefinition of the meaning and nature of art.This multipurpose treasury features luxuriant patterns and designs that date from the early twentieth century, the heyday of Art Nouveau. Featuring both allover patterns and stand-alone designs, it consists of 49 full-page illustrations, plus eleven pages with numerous individual images. Handsomely reproduced from a rare Viennese publication, this inexpensive volume offers a sumptuous assortment of authentic designs from a revolutionary art movement.