"A man finds room in the few square inches of his face for the traits of all his ancestors; for the expression of all his history, and his wants."

-Ralph Waldo Emerson

The human face is a bountiful source of inspiration, and as Emerson points out it is a beautiful expression of history and ancestry. The beauty of faces is found in many types of art--even, if not especially, advertisements. Art Nouveau was a popular style of art often used in advertising around 1890 to 1910 which is characterized by its flowing, rhythmic curves. Alphonse Mucha, an artist associated with the Art Nouveau style, was known for featuring beautiful women in his ads, and the depth of expression in these women's faces is captivating.

Art Nouveau Set (C'ville Arts); Necklace $26, Earrings $20