Bronze Sculpture “russian Dancer.” Paul Philippe. France, Circa 1920

An elegant chryselephantine sculpture depicting a Russian dancer, based on a model by the Austro-French sculptor Paul Philippe (1870–1930) and created around 1920. This work is a remarkable example of European cabinet sculpture from the Art Deco period, illustrating the era’s fascination with dance, Eastern exoticism, and the expressiveness of the body in motion.

The dancer is captured at the culminating moment of her choreographic movement. Balancing on a single leg, she spreads her arms wide, creating a spiraling silhouette of remarkable sculptural intensity. The movement is emphasized by the masterful modeling of the costume’s folds, the wide, Eastern-inspired sash, and the elegant tilt of her face. The contrast between the deep patina of the bronze and the smoothness of the polished ivory—used for the head, arms, and upper torso—enhances the decorative elegance of the piece while highlighting the artist’s technical mastery.

The sculpture rests on a polished onyx pedestal. The work demonstrates exceptional casting quality, remarkable refinement in the treatment of details, and an original patina characteristic of the finest French foundries of the first quarter of the 20th century.

Signatures and marks: Signed “P. Philippe” on the base of the figure.

Dimensions: Height: 29 cm. Width: 15 cm.

Weight: 890 g.

Materials: Bronze with brown patina, ivory, onyx.

Provenance: France.

Documentation: Accompanied by a CITES certificate.

ID-ANTQ-11153