The Art Nouveau era in France appeared at the end of the 19th century in a swirling world of societal changes. The style is characterized by sinuous curves and organic forms with nature as the ultimate source book, particularly the plant world as well as insects and birds that lent themselves to the same stylizing process. Much of the art of the era is influenced by dreams, symbolism, creepy crawlers, opium smoke, and the ideas of Darwin and Freud. The curve of the female body, particularly when combined with long flowing hair, was an inspiration for decorative possibilities.

Eleanor Schrader (M.A.) is an award-winning educator, lecturer, and author. She lectures worldwide on art and architectural history, and leads art and architecture tours throughout the world. She has been named a Distinguished Instructor at UCLA Extension, where she teaches history of architecture, interior design, furniture, and decorative arts. She is also Professor Emeritus of Art and Architectural History at Santa Monica College. She has done graduate work in fine and decorative arts at Sotheby's Institute in London and New York. She has served as a Design Review Commissioner for the City of Beverly Hills and currently serves on the Board of Directors of the John Lautner Foundation.