MacDougall Auctions 12-18 June 2008

12 June 2008

Artist Index / Full Catalogue


Balancing Act

99. CHIPARUS, DEMETER 1886-1947

Balancing Act base inscribed: "D. Chiparus".

Cold-painted parcel-gilt bronze, carved ivory, on an onyx base, 44.5 by 14 by 6.5 cm.
35,000-55,000


Provenance: Private collection.

Literature: A. Shayo. Chiparus: Master of Art Deco. Abbeville Press Inc., US., 1993, p. 154 illustrated.
Art Deco Sculpture: from Root to Flourishing, vol 1, Russian House Art Deco, 2008.

It was the Russian Seasons ballet troupe and their productions of L'Apres-midi d'un Faune and Daphne and Chloe, that played a major part in a classical revival, which can be seen in the heroine’s hairstyle and chiton. Fokin’s stage play, and the settings and costumes of Bakst introduced the Parisian public with new visions of Ancient Greek art, and these were almost immediately assimilated in to the work of the dancers, sculptors and artists of the Art Deco period.

For more information please refer to printed catalogue


Notes on symbols:
* Indicates 5% Import Duty Charge applies.
Ω Indicates 20% Import Duty Charge applies.
§ Indicates Artist's Resale Right applies.
† Indicates Standard VAT scheme applies, and the rate of 20% VAT will be charged on both hammer price and premium.