Sex and Sensibility: The Allure of Art Nouveau

The delicious objects of Parisian Art Nouveau are explored by cultural correspondent Stephen Smith. Uncovering how the luscious decorative style first erupted into the cityscape, Stephen delves into the citys Bohemian past to learn how some of the 19th centurys most glamorous and controversial figures inspired this extraordinary movement Revealing the story behind Alphonse Muchas sensual posters of actress Sarah Bernhardt, looking at the exquisite jewellery designer Renee Lalique and visiting iconic art nouveau locations such the famous Maxims restaurant, the programme builds a picture of fin-de-siecle Paris. But Smith also reveals that the style is more than just veneer deep. Looking further into the work of glass maker Emile Galle and architect Hector Guimard, he sees how some of art nouveaus stars risked their reputation to give meaning and purpose to work they thought could affect social change.