The Egyptian Revival style

The Neo-Egyptian Style in the Decorative Arts

The Neo-Egyptian style, a modern interpretation of the art and culture of ancient Egypt, has passed through various periods of influence since the 19th century, leaving a lasting imprint on the decorative arts. The style emerged in response to major archaeological discoveries and growing interest in ancient Egypt, fueled by iconic expeditions such as those of Napoleon Bonaparte in the late 18th century and Howard Carter's excavations in the early 20th century.

Origins and evolution of the Neo-Egyptian style

The Neo-Egyptian style emerged after Napoleon's Egyptian campaign (1798-1801), which sparked an infatuation with ancient and pharaonic Egypt in Europe. The scientists and artists who accompanied Napoleon's army documented the treasures of ancient Egypt, leading to a wave of publications, such as the monumental "Description de l'Égypte". This interest influenced architecture, fashion and the decorative arts, giving rise to the Egyptomania style.

This style was revived in the 1920s, following the discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in 1922 by Howard Carter. This event rekindled interest in ancient Egypt and influenced artistic trends such as Art Deco, which incorporated many Egyptian elements into its geometric motifs and stylized forms.

Characteristics of the Neo-Egyptian Style

Neo-Egyptian decorative arts are characterized by the use of motifs and symbols directly inspired by ancient Egypt.

Among the most recurrent elements are hieroglyphic scripts and symbols such as the ankh (symbol of life), the eye of Horus (symbol of protection), and the scarab (symbol of rebirth) are frequently used in decorative motifs.

Architectural forms take the form of papyrus columns, pylons and obelisks.

The use of bright colors such as turquoise blue, red, gold and black is typical of the Egyptomania style, recalling Egyptian frescoes and jewelry.

Materials such as gilded wood, earthenware and lapis lazuli are also favored.
Representations of Egyptian deities such as Isis, Osiris and Anubis, as well as sacred animals like sphinxes and falcons, are omnipresent.

Influence and impact

The Neo-Egyptian style has had a considerable impact on various areas of the decorative arts. In architecture, iconic buildings such as the Masonic Temple in Washington D.C. and the National Library of France incorporate neo-Egyptian elements in their design.

 Neo-Egyptian furniture is distinguished by its elegance and ornamental richness. From seats to tables, each piece is often adorned with engraved or painted motifs inspired by Egyptian iconography.

Egyptian Revival jewelry, often adorned with semi-precious stones and symbolic motifs, enjoyed particular popularity in the 1920s.

Decorative textiles, tapestries and ceramics were also influenced by this style, incorporating Egyptian motifs into their designs.

The Egyptian Revival style in the decorative arts is a fascinating manifestation of how an ancient culture continues to influence contemporary art and design. By reinterpreting the motifs and symbols of ancient Egypt, artists and designers have created a unique style that combines history, aesthetics and modernity. This style remains an inexhaustible source of inspiration, demonstrating the timeless appeal of Egyptian civilization.