What I like – Jacob Markies of Jeroen Markies Art Deco

The name Chiparus is synonymous with Art Deco Sculpture and this example of the Egyptian Dancer is simply stunning. I remember coming to work for Dad at the London fairs as a teenager and being struck by the elegance and quality of these bronzes. This was only 15 years ago for me, but I remember seeing Chiparus statues often, both on our stand and others. Now, however, it is increasingly difficult to procure quality bronzes let alone by the likes of Chiparus, which makes this example, for me, all the more special.

Demétre Chiparus was a Romanian-born sculptor who lived from 1886 to 1947. He is best known for his Art Deco figurines, which were highly sought after during the 1920s and ’30s.

Chiparus was born in Dorohoi, Romania, and studied at the Bucharest Academy of Fine Arts. After completing his studies, he moved to Paris in 1912, where he worked as a sculptor and designer. He quickly established himself as one of the leading sculptors of the Art Deco movement, creating pieces that were characterised by their sleek lines, geometric shapes, and emphasis on the beauty of the human form.

Chiparus drew inspiration for his work from a variety of sources, including ancient civilisations, mythology, and contemporary dance. Many of his sculptures depict graceful, dynamic figures in motion, often in elaborate costumes and headdresses. He was also known for his skill in working with materials such as ivory, bronze, and marble, creating pieces that were both visually striking and technically impressive.

Despite the popularity of his work during the 1920s and ’30s, Chiparus’s reputation declined after World War II, as the Art Deco movement fell out of favour. However, his work has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, and his sculptures are now highly valued by collectors around the world. Today, Chiparus is remembered as one of the most important and influential sculptors of the Art Deco movement, and his work continues to inspire and captivate audiences more than 70 years on.

Egyptian Dancer, c.1925, by Demétre Chiparus. Standing 73cm high, this cold painted bronze sculpture of a dancer dressed in Egyptian style is signed D H. Chiparus to the base and plaque. 

Jeroen Markies Art Deco is at 5 Newlands Place, Hartfield Road, Forest Row, East Sussex RH18 5DQ  www.jeroenmarkies.co.uk