Early Life and Artistic Formation
Born on September 1, 1892, in Vienna, Austria, Lorenzl began his artistic journey at the Vienna Arsenal, a military complex where he learned the intricacies of bronze casting. This early exposure to metalwork laid the foundation for his future endeavors in sculpture.
Signature Style and Collaborations
Lorenzl's sculptures are characterized by their portrayal of lithe, elongated female figures, often captured in dynamic, dance-like poses. These works frequently feature closed eyes and serene expressions, embodying the sophistication of the Art Deco movement. He occasionally collaborated with the painter Crejo, who added delicate colorations to Lorenzl's pieces, resulting in joint works that are particularly prized by collectors.
Ceramic Works and Goldscheider Association
Beyond bronze, Lorenzl was a gifted ceramicist. He produced numerous pieces for the renowned Viennese manufacturer Goldscheider, working from a studio located on the company's premises. His ceramic creations, like his sculptures, often depicted elegant female forms and were integral to Goldscheider's success during the Art Deco period.
Notable Works
"The Butterfly Girl": Inspired by the dancer Niddy Impekoven, this piece exemplifies Lorenzl's ability to capture movement and grace.
"Gefangener Vogel" (Captured Bird): A ceramic figure produced for Goldscheider around 1922, showcasing a dancer enveloped in butterfly-like wings.
"Egyptian Dancer": Also known as "Odalisque," this 1922 sculpture represents a temple dancer from Verdi's "Aida," reflecting the era's fascination with Orientalism.
Legacy and Posthumous Impact
Lorenzl's work significantly influenced the Art Deco aesthetic, capturing the era's spirit through his elegant and expressive figures. After his death on August 15, 1950, in Vienna, it is reported that his wife, Anna (Njura) Lorenzl, destroyed many of his figurines, making surviving pieces even more valuable.
Josef Lorenzl's artistic legacy endures through his captivating sculptures and ceramics, which continue to be celebrated for their beauty and embodiment of the Art Deco movement.