Art Deco Figurines - Con Brio - Ferdinand Preiss

Elegance in Motion – Art Deco Bronze Statue “Con Brio” - Signed Ferdinand Preiss

The Art Deco Figure “Con Brio” is one of the most iconic creations of the celebrated sculptor Ferdinand Preiss, encapsulating the dynamism and vitality of the 1920s. The bronze statue presents a dancer in a perfectly balanced pose, one leg raised with graceful precision while her arms extend outward in rhythm. This moment of motion is frozen in bronze, yet it radiates energy and vitality, true to the meaning of its title “Con Brio,” which translates to “with spirit” or “with vigor.” The Preiss Sculpture embodies the essence of the Art Deco era, uniting elegance, athleticism, and modern femininity in a single work. Collectors today treasure such works, and the phrase Ferdinand Preiss for Sale is synonymous with exclusivity and rarity.

The Historical Origins of “Con Brio”

The original version of “Con Brio” was created around 1925 and combined different materials to enhance its artistic effect. It featured delicately carved ivory for the dancer’s figure, partly painted to highlight the vibrant details of her costume, while her headdress, two-piece outfit, and plinth were crafted from cold-painted bronze. This interplay of materials made the Art Deco Figurines by Preiss especially desirable among collectors of the time, as they embodied luxury and modern design. Later bronze editions, like the one shown here, captured the full form of the dancer with remarkable clarity and detail. Each Preiss Sculpture from this period reflects not only artistic mastery but also the unique stylistic tendencies of the Art Deco movement.

Life and Training of Ferdinand Preiss

Born on February 13, 1882, in Erbach, Germany, Ferdinand Preiss lost both of his parents while still young, a tragedy that deeply shaped his life. He trained as an ivory carver in his hometown, a craft for which Erbach was famous, before continuing his artistic education in Berlin. There he co-founded the Preiss & Kassler workshop with Arthur Kassler, which became one of the leading studios producing small Art Deco Figurines and luxury sculptures. His work combined ivory, bronze, and marble with an elegance that defined the Art Deco aesthetic. 

Symbolism of the Dance Pose

The figure of “Con Brio” is more than a decorative dancer; it is a statement about modern womanhood during the roaring twenties. The lifted knee, extended arms, and confident expression symbolize independence, vitality, and liberation. The Art Deco Figure demonstrates how women were increasingly celebrated not only as muses but also as embodiments of strength and individuality. By capturing a dancer mid-performance, Ferdinand Preiss emphasized rhythm, dynamism, and the power of human expression. Each Preiss Sculpture from this period reflects his fascination with the interplay of movement and form.

Technical Mastery in Bronze

The casting of this Preiss Sculpture reveals the exceptional quality for which Preiss was renowned. Fine details in the dancer’s clothing and athletic physique reflect his background in ivory carving, where precision was paramount. The surface of the bronze is polished with subtle patination, giving depth and warmth to the figure. The plinth, designed in geometric Art Deco style, underscores the aesthetic of the period while providing balance to the lively posture of the dancer. Among Art Deco Figurines, few works achieve such a perfect harmony between craftsmanship, style, and symbolism.

Present-Day Collections and Legacy

Today, works by Ferdinand Preiss can be admired in museums, galleries, and prestigious private collections around the world. The “Con Brio” dancer continues to appear at major auctions, where collectors seek authentic examples under the designation Ferdinand Preiss for Sale. The enduring demand reflects both the historical importance of the piece and its timeless beauty. Alongside other famous Art Deco Figurines, “Con Brio” has become a symbol of the era’s fascination with modernity, luxury, and artistic innovation. Each Preiss Sculpture embodies not only the creativity of its maker but also the spirit of an age that revolutionized art and design.

Width: 36 cm
Height: 45 cm
Depth: 13 cm
Weight: 3,3 kg
100% Bronze