The origin and meaning of the term
The term 'chryselephantine' comes from Ancient Greek, combining the words 'chrysos' (gold) and 'elephantinos' (ivory). Even in ancient times, the Greeks combined these precious materials to create monumental cult statues.
The heyday of ivory carving
The art of ivory carving experienced a renaissance in Europe during the Baroque and Rococo periods, when it was prized for its delicacy and lustre.
Chryselephantine in the 20th century
Despite its ancient origins, the term 'chryselephantine' is now primarily associated with the elegant, often theatrical, sculptures that characterised Art Nouveau and Art Deco in the early 20th century. In these sculptures, ivory was no longer combined with gold, but primarily with bronze and other precious materials, capturing the spirit of modernity.
The diversity of sculptures in the catalogue
The 82 catalogue numbers below represent an exceptionally comprehensive selection of this type of sculpture. The figures reflect the elegance, sensuality, and dynamism that characterised the decorative arts of the interwar period. While early works still drew on classical or allegorical themes, as seen in catalogue numbers 54 and 55 by H. Weisenfels and Mathurin Moreau respectively, attention soon turned to contemporary subjects. The influence of the Ballets Russes, silent film, and the clean lines of modern design is unmistakable.
Important artists and works:
Some pieces refer directly to notable figures of the time. For example, catalogue number 100 is inspired by Tilla Durieux's iconic portrayal of Salomé. More often than not, however, an idealised female figure is depicted in a dance, symbolising sophistication, vitality, and the newly gained freedom of the body in art. Josef Lorenzl (cat. nos. 25–48) is one of the best-known creators of these representations. Whether frozen in mid-pirouette or in dramatic poses, his graceful dancers embody the spirit and joie de vivre of the Golden Twenties. Equally iconic are the works of Demétre Chiparus (cat. nos. 49 and 50). He was arguably the most famous artist in this genre, and his stylised figures from mythology, opera, and the Parisian stage combine fantasy and precision to perfection.
The timeless fascination of chryselephantine art
This collection brings together some of the finest examples of this art form. Through their combination of luxury and movement, fantasy and form, these pieces have lost none of their charm, even a century after they were created.