This comprehensive study examines the evolution of Jugendstil in Germany, Austria and the neighbouring regions where Art Nouveau developed into one of the most innovative artistic movements around 1900. The book accompanies the major exhibition held at the Bayerisches Nationalmuseum in Munich and offers a chronological and thematic survey of Jugendstil from its origins to its influence on twentieth-century design. Wichmann explains the botanical and biological inspirations behind floral ornament before analysing the gradual emergence of functional, geometric forms that anticipated modernism and the Bauhaus. Separate chapters discuss architecture, furniture, stained glass, ceramics, jewellery, silverwork, textiles, graphic design, book illustration and poster art. Particular attention is given to leading figures such as Henry van de Velde, Hermann Obrist, Peter Behrens, Josef Hoffmann, Koloman Moser, Otto Eckmann, Emile Gallé, Eugène Gaillard, Charles Rennie Mackintosh and Antoni Gaudí. The richly illustrated catalogue contains 476 illustrations, extensive bibliographical references, artist biographies, explanatory notes on decorative techniques and a comprehensive index, making the volume both an exhibition catalogue and an authoritative reference work on Central European Art Nouveau. (AI-generated content description)