ICONIC! JEAN DE RONCOURT FRENCH ART DECO MAN MALE NUDE SCULPTURE STATUE GAY INT.

Description: An exquisite piece and the most prized of the JEAN DE RONCOURT sculptures! “LE BENDEUR” is widely considered to be the sculptor’s finest work. It depicts an athletic semi-nude male bending an iron rod by hand. Its subject matter (man’s will and muscle triumphing over an element of nature) is something the artist returned to —notably in a sculpture “THE BRONZE AGE” which he signed under one of his pseudonyms “G. HERVOR.” (De Roncourt also occasionally used the name “RUDENS”). In nearly all cases, the works show a figure of near-impossible physical perfection straining his muscles. This piece is iconic and typifies the French Art Deco figurative works of the period 1925-1940, and blends the modern with the classical in a manner that evokes the Greek classical works. Because of the somewhat erotic treatment of the male form (similar to Bruce Weber’s photographic work or the Italian Foro Italico), one can certainly understand why some dealers list the sculptor’s works under the heading “Gay Interest.” However one wishes to classify the art, this piece is a substantial work that is a true statement piece that will be a focal point in any setting. Cast in spelter with wonderful detail work (the hair, for example) which suggests this piece may indeed be an early cast done for the artist during the original period. Beware: Any examples done in bronze were likely produced post-1980. As this particular piece is extremely desirable, there are several copies of copies (4 & 5 generations plus from the first castings) where the details are, to put it mildly, a bit “fuzzy.” Approximate measurements (overall) are as follows (including the plinth base): Length across: 28.25” Height 21.25” Base comprises 1.75” of this height) Depth 7” The base is approximately 1.75” high. Condition is very good overall, commensurate with age and handling. The rear corner of the marble base has a 2” x 1.25” chip missing. As we have displayed it (even with a mirror behind it), this has never really been noticeable enough to restore this small flaw. But it is there, so we wish to point this out. This will be professionally packed and shipped, and will be sent fully insured with a signature required on delivery. This may be shipped with the base unscrewed (and possibly in a separate parcel) as one does not wish to damage the sculpture or the marble base. The shipping cost includes the packing service and materials. If these actual shipping costs are lower, we will refund the difference charged. The buyer may also arrange local pickup for the item, thus saving on the shipping costs. Finally, if you prefer hand delivery by a driver, we may be able to suggest someone depending on your location. All third party shippers are suggested as a courtesy and you will negotiate with and pay them directly. We are not in any way liable or responsible for any third party shipper. Please ask any questions prior to purchase. Payment due within 48 hours of purchase. Please also check our other listings! In the coming weeks, we will be offering several other prized 1920’s - 1930’s Art Deco pieces, including sculptures by ALEXANDRE OULINE, LUCIEN GIBERT, JEAN DE RONCOURT, MAX LE VERRIER, tea/coffee sets from CHRISTOFLE, PUIFORCAT flatware, goblets and cocktail set from Desny, Revere, Lurelle Guild for Kensington, and Chase, modernist paintings, a suite of cubist portraits / lithographs, African and tribal art, as well as a nice selection of furniture — a Machine Age Norman Bel Geddes for Simmons bedroom set, (dressers, bed, vanity / desk), tables and chairs by Wolfgang Hoffmann and Alfons Bach (Royalchrome, Lloyd). Also, a Paul Frankl inspired skyscraper coffee table, and small objects and figurines (Rosenthal, Hertwig Kathutte), as well as a pair of shagreen*/ leather screens custom created for the Baccarat Hotel, NYC. We are also in process of posting nearly a dozen men’s designer pieces (sunglasses, leather shoes, boots, sneakers, jackets, duffel bags, and sweaters) from Prada, Hermes, Cartier, Dolce and Gabbana and Gucci) so if interested, please be certain to check back in the coming days.

Price: 2180 USD

Location: West Hollywood, California

End Time: 2024-09-07T23:21:47.000Z

Shipping Cost: 286.6 USD