Art Deco Figures for Sale.

Art Deco figures and figurines are among the most beautiful and most collectable of all art deco antiques. However some art deco artists are more collectable and more highly prized than others. Major designers of Art Deco figures include Chiparus, Lorenzl, Colinet and Priess.

Beautiful, original 1930s Art Deco figures, whether made from plaster, speltor or bronze look nothing less than spectacular in the correct setting.

Even well executed reproductions of well known art deco figurines produced in metal or ivorine and set on marble bases can be stunning design pieces and will set-off any minimalist interior.

Highly Collectable Art Deco Sculptors Include...

Ferdinand Preiss who was one of the most famous of the Art Deco sculptors. Most of his sculptures are made from chryselephantine although there are a few made just from ivory. His figures are finely modelled and detailed and are usually dancers or sportswomen. The most desirable for collectors are those mounted on bases rather than dishes or ashtrays.

Demetre Chiparus, an influential sculptor of the period, was born in Romania but worked in France. His sculptures were inspired by dancers, particularly those from the Ballet Russe and his work shows a Central American influence.

Joseph Lorenzl was one of the most prominent sculptors of the time. He worked in bronze, ivory and chryselephantine and his work was also produced in ceramics by the Goldscheider Company of Vienna. His female figures were idealized and perfect and are usually nude.

Clare-Jeanne-Roberte Colinet was notable at the time and is chiefly remembered for her series Dancers of the World. Precisely how many figures were in the series is not known as new ones are still being discovered. Like the other sculptors of the time she worked in ivory, bronze and chryselephantine.

Art Deco figures are highly collectable today and continue to rise in value. This can make them a target for forgers and inferior reproductions are seen at every trade fair and auction.

Beware of anything that is too cheap, if it seems to be too good to be true, it probably is.

Look at the figure carefully, are the hands and face finely detailed and modelled?

Is it made of ivory or could it be plastic? Be aware that an apparent grain in the ivory is no guarantee because grained plastic is now available.

Look for a rich patina on bronze or gilded figures.

As with other Art Deco items, condition is paramount. Pieces where the ivory is chipped or cracked should be avoided