The style known as Art Nouveau became widespread in western Europe in the late 19th and early 20th century. It was characterized by organic shapes and sinuous, curvilinear, motifs. Its main influence was on architecture and applied arts, though integration of different specialties was one of its characteristics.

Art Nouveau was known by different names in different countries: Jugendstil (Germany), Sezessionstil (Austria), "Modern Style" (Great Britain), Liberty (Italy), Modernismo (Spain), Art Nouveau (France).

Though Art Nouveau influenced sculpture less than other artistic styles, the following characteristics can be defined:

- the influence of ornamental wavy and organic shapes
- integration within the architecture.