Sculpture by Josef Lorenzl — "Dancer with a Scarf"

Josef Lorenzl (Йозеф Лоренцль, 1892–1950) — an Austrian sculptor and ceramicist, one of the leading masters of the Art Deco period. His works became an embodiment of the elegance and dynamism of that style. Biography Born on 1 September 1892 in Vienna. Little is known about his early life. He began his career in the foundry of the Vienna Arsenal (a military complex), where he learned methods of bronze casting. Artistic activity Lorenzl created sculptures in bronze and also used the chryselephantine technique, combining bronze and ivory. His works often depicted graceful young women in dynamic, dance-like poses. Distinctive features of his work include an idealized image of slim women with serenely calm facial expressions, long elegant legs and closed eyes. He often included long scarves, fans, gymnastic hoops and other details that gave his works a particular erotic appeal. Many dancers are depicted nude or in unusual, "provocative" poses that emphasize the plasticity of the female body. Lorenzl was also a talented ceramicist. He worked with the Vienna manufactory Goldscheider, creating both standalone sculptures and decorative elements for lamps and vases. He collaborated with other Viennese firms: Porzellanfabrik Hertwig & Co. and Keramos (Wiener Kunst-Keramik und Porzellan Manufaktur AG). Notable works: - "The Butterfly Girl" — a ceramic figurine inspired by the dancer Niddy Impekoven. - "Scarf Dancer" — a bronze figure in the Art Deco style, circa 1930, depicting a nude dancer with outstretched arms in an elegant pose, holding the edge of a scarf wrapped around her waist, with one leg extended forward. - "Egyptian Dancer" (also known as "Odalisque") — a 1922 sculpture depicting a temple dancer from Verdi's opera Aida, reflecting the era's interest in Orientalism. He sometimes collaborated with the artist Krejo, who added delicate coloration to his works. After his death After the artist's death in 1950, his wife Anna (Ndjura) Lorenzl destroyed a large number of his works. This made the surviving pieces even more valuable. Legacy Lorenzl's works continue to be sought after by collectors and at auctions. His work had a significant influence on the aesthetics of Art Deco.