French Early 20th Century Gilt Bronze and Ivory Chryselephantine Sculpture of a Child on Marble Base

A gem of French Belle Époque artisanship, this chryselephantine sculpture unites gilt bronze and delicately hand-carved ivory in the captivating figure of a young child, frozen mid-movement in a flowing coat and scarf. The face and hands — carved in smooth, luminous ivory — bring a warmth and lifelike personality to the composition that bronze alone could never achieve, a hallmark of the distinctive chryselephantine technique that reached its apex in French decorative arts around the turn of the 20th century.

The figure's dynamic contrapposto, the sweeping movement of the coat, and the meticulous detailing of the scarf all speak to a sculptor working at the height of French technical virtuosity. Mounted on a polished marble base, the composition achieves a harmonious dialogue between the gleaming gilt bronze, the warm ivory tones, and the cool, refined surface of the stone. A breathtaking centerpiece for a collector's display cabinet or a beautifully appointed mantelpiece.

Chryselephantine sculpture — combining precious materials with cast bronze — was among the most coveted achievements of the Belle Époque atelier, produced by masters such as Demetre Chiparus and Bruno Zach. This charming child figure stands in that rarefied tradition of French luxury craftsmanship. Dimensions on file; please inquire.

Place of Origin: France
Period: 20th Century
Dimensions: 3.9" Diameter x 6.7"H

Inventory Number: ZZ68
Location: JAA

Price: $ 950