In Print - Introduction

The latter half of the 19th century saw an explosion in all kinds of printed materials: public reading rooms, novels, illustrated journals, caricature, collectable prints and luxury books. The sinuous lines and nature motifs of Art Nouveau featured heavily in book design and exlibris plates produced by many artists. Magazines and journals covering artistic and decorative trends were launched across Europe, including Munich-based Jugend and Ver Sacrum, published by the Vienna Secession. The vanguard of Art Nouveau in St Petersburg was communicated through Mir Iskusstva (World of Art). It provided the earliest international exposure for the Ballets Russes dance company.