Chiparus: Master of Art Deco

Born in Romania, Demetre Chiparus (1886-1947) studied in Italy and France before settling in Paris, where he perfected the chryselephantine technique of combining ivory with bronze. Produced as multiples, his works were greatly admired as small-scale decorative objects and today are among the most coveted objects from the Art Deco period, capturing the lively and sensuous spirit of the time.

This lavishly illustrated volume examines Chiparus's work as an embodiment of the Art Deco style. The author explores the various contemporary inspirations for the sculptor's art, including haute couture, the music hall, Diaghilev's ballets, and the stage designs of Leon Bakst. Focusing on Chiparus's bronze and ivory pieces, he outlines their development from idea through finished piece, with illustrations of plasteline models that document the artist's working methods. The book provides much previously unknown information about Chiparus's life; and this new edition also offers an appendix devoted to his newly rediscovered paintings.