Secession is the name given to several groups of artists who broke away from established academic institutions in central Europe in the 1890s, and in particular to the Vienna Secession founded in 1897. In the decorative arts it describes the distinctive Austrian and German form of Art Nouveau, characterised by geometric patterns, square motifs and stylised natural forms.
The Vienna Secession was founded by artists including Gustav Klimt, Koloman Moser and Josef Hoffmann, with the architect Joseph Maria Olbrich designing its famous exhibition building. Unlike the flowing curves of French Art Nouveau, Secession design favoured restraint, grids, chequerboard patterns and the use of black and white, influenced in part by Charles Rennie Mackintosh and British Arts and Crafts. Moser and Hoffmann went on to found the Wiener Werkstätte in 1903, producing furniture, silver, glass, ceramics and jewellery. Bentwood firms such as Thonet and Kohn also made furniture to Secession designs. Collectors look for pieces by recognised designers and workshops, with original marks, and for good quality materials and finishes. Secession design looks remarkably modern and works well in both period and contemporary settings.
