Designer of the Week
Who is Art?
Photo courtesy of ebay seller artisanctusgifts
Dates of Operation- 1940s-1970s
Design Characteristics - Whimsical figures, Enameling, Interesting stones and color combinations, Interpretations of Renaissance, Victorian and Art Deco Designs, Known for interesting Christmas pins, including Christmas tree brooches.
Art jewelry was moderately priced, and mass produced. The pieces were found in many department stores all over the United States during this period. Because of this, Art jewelry is quite easily found by today's collectors. The Christmas jewelry is readily seen today. Since the pieces are readily available, there is no reason to purchase pieces that are not in top quality condition.
ModeArt Jewelry Creations Inc. was founded in the late 1940's by Arthur Pepper and remained in business until the 1970's. The vintage jewelry resource books don't give much information about the company. They were located in New York, NY. Most of their pieces are high quality and cover a very broad range of designs, which are similar to those of Florenza and Hollycraft. ART jewelry seems to be very under undervalued. It is hard to find for sale, but the prices don't reflect this. Some of the favorite designs by collectors are the brightly colored enamel and figural pieces.
Design Mark
Art pieces were marked in several ways. Some were signed "ART" in printed capital letters. After 1955, you will find them signed Art with the copyright symbol. They can also be signed ModeArt and Mode-Art.
Art- all capital letters, with copyright symbol embossed in metal |
Art - all capital letters and copyright symbol on cartouche |
Mode Art - all capital letters with copyright symbol |
Value of the pieces today - Only purchase Art designs in mint condition.
Art Jewelry is undervalued in today's market, mainly because of the quality and workmanship of the designs. The best pieces for investment are the figural pins, Glitzy rhinestone jewelry sets (some made by D & E), and Art Christmas jewelry. Enameled pieces will probably not increase in value as much as the previously mentioned pieces. Prices are steadily increasing, so now is the time to buy.
I try to offer accurate vintage jewelry information, but may make errors from time to time due to mistakes in research information.
To view other articles on the designers, please visit the designer of the week archives.
