Art Deco Bronze Statue - Lazzarone - signed Chiparus

Art Deco Bronze Sculpture - Lazzarone - Signed by Demetre Chiparus

This striking bronze sculpture, Lazzarone, crafted by the celebrated sculptor Demetre Chiparus, exemplifies the elegance, dynamism, and sophistication of the Art Deco movement. Capturing a moment of poised elegance, this statue represents Chiparus’s deep understanding of form, motion, and the cultural ideals of his time, making it a prized piece for collectors and admirers of Art Deco art.

About the Artist: Demetre Chiparus

Born in Dorohoi, Romania, in 1886, Demetre H. Chiparus moved to Paris to study at the École des Beaux-Arts, where he honed his skills in sculpture. He became renowned for his extraordinary ability to combine classical sculpture with modern, Art Deco stylings. Influenced by the excitement surrounding Egyptology and the Ballets Russes, Chiparus produced vibrant, lifelike figures that captured the spirit of the Roaring Twenties. His work typically features dancers, acrobats, and performers in dynamic, stylized poses, reflecting the era’s fascination with exoticism and elegance. Lazzarone is a testament to Chiparus’s extraordinary craftsmanship and artistic vision.

The Creation of Lazzarone: Art Deco Elegance in Bronze

The Lazzarone sculpture likely dates back to the 1920s, a period when Art Deco flourished as a celebration of luxury, modernity, and refinement. Chiparus’s inspiration often came from the performing arts, and this piece is no exception. Lazzarone embodies the sophistication of a performer captured in mid-movement, exuding grace and poise. This bronze piece is meticulously detailed, from the delicate expression on the figure's face to the intricate clothing and the dynamic stance.

The bronze itself is finished with Chiparus's characteristic multi-patinated technique, which enhances the statue’s depth and richness, capturing light in a way that brings the figure to life. Mounted on a polished marble base, the statue’s presentation is refined and exudes an air of luxury that was emblematic of the Art Deco period.

Lazzarone is designed to capture a sense of balance and poise. The figure’s stance is dynamic, suggesting movement and life, yet balanced, symbolizing Chiparus’s mastery in sculpting forms that blend fluidity and strength. The fine details in the facial expression, the folds of the clothing, and the hands demonstrate Chiparus’s dedication to precision, while the figure’s elongated form and stylized features resonate with the Art Deco aesthetic.

The figure’s costume reflects an exotic influence, echoing the Art Deco fascination with themes beyond Europe, which were often romanticized and incorporated into design and fashion. Chiparus’s portrayal of Lazzarone speaks to a fascination with theatricality and cosmopolitanism, reflecting the era’s embrace of new ideas and cultural motifs.

Symbolism and Art Deco Aesthetics

In Chiparus’s Lazzarone, there is a celebration of beauty, grace, and cultural diversity—a hallmark of Art Deco’s vision. Art Deco, with its geometric designs, luxurious materials, and focus on elegance, was not just an aesthetic but a statement of optimism and modernity. Through Lazzarone, Chiparus expresses these ideals, capturing the opulence and forward-thinking ethos of the time.

The statue’s exotic flair reflects the influence of world cultures on the European Art Deco style, showcasing how artists of the time were inspired by global art and performance. The poised elegance of Lazzarone serves as an icon of this openness and fascination, resonating with the audience’s desire for the allure of the unknown.

Legacy and Collectibility of Chiparus Sculptures

Demetre Chiparus’s works remain highly sought after for their quality and representation of the Art Deco era’s finest ideals. Sculptures like Lazzarone continue to be celebrated for their craftsmanship, detail, and the artist’s remarkable ability to encapsulate an era in bronze. As a collectible piece, Lazzarone offers not only artistic beauty but also a connection to the glamour and excitement of the early 20th century.

For collectors and admirers of Art Deco, Lazzarone is more than just a decorative piece; it is a cultural artifact, capturing the essence of a transformative period in art history. Chiparus’s name remains synonymous with Art Deco sculpture, and owning a piece like Lazzarone is owning a part of his enduring legacy.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Art Deco and the Genius of Chiparus

Lazzarone by Demetre Chiparus is a timeless work that perfectly embodies the spirit of the Art Deco movement. From the artist’s unique background and influences to the intricate details of the statue itself, this sculpture represents a fusion of classical art with the glamour of 1920s Paris. Its beauty and artistry make it a cherished piece, celebrating both the era and the genius of Chiparus. Owning Lazzarone is a way to bring a piece of history into the present—a symbol of elegance, cultural curiosity, and the Art Deco fascination with the beauty of the human form.