Spiro Schwatenberg Bronze Figure Balancing Nude Art Deco c1920 Woman with Ball

Description

Step into the Roaring Twenties with this striking Art Deco masterpiece-a sleek bronze figure of a nude woman poised in graceful motion, balancing a sphere on her elegantly bent arm. Crafted by German artist Spiro Schwatenberg (1898 - 1922), this rare sculpture embodies the glamour and innovation of the 1920s, blending geometric precision with sensual fluidity.

The figure’s elongated limbs and stylized curves epitomize Art Deco’s fascination with modernity and dynamism. Her poised stance, balancing a symbolic orb, evokes themes of harmony, ambition, and the interplay between human strength and fragility. Set atop a raised marble base, the sculpture exudes luxury, its polished bronze surface contrasting beautifully with the veined stone.

Spiro Schwatenberg, active from 1898 to 1922, was a German sculptor known for figural bronzes, particularly of athletes and nudes. Despite his short career, his works are prized by collectors and have appeared in auctions, reflecting his artistic and historical significance. His works are celebrated for their fusion of classical elegance and avant-garde boldness, making this piece a coveted collector’s item. Created during the zenith of Art Deco, this sculpture is a tangible link to an era defined by cultural upheaval and artistic experimentation.

Measuring 28 cm in height, it exemplifies the luxurious materials and craftsmanship typical of the period. The sculpture is signed on the back by Spiro Schwatenberg. In good condition, though it bears a minor crack on the right arm, which does not significantly detract from its structural condition or aesthetic appeal.

The Art Deco style, prominent in the 1920s and 1930s, is characterized by bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and lavish ornamentation, often celebrating modernity and the human form. This piece, with its smooth lines and graceful curves, aligns with these traits, presenting a figure that is both timeless and reflective of the era's emphasis on elegance and sophistication. The act of balancing a ball may symbolize harmony, equilibrium, or the playful spirit of the Roaring Twenties, offering an educated guess on the artist's intent to convey balance and poise.

Given Schwatenberg's active years (1898-1922), this piece likely dates to the early 1920s, aligning with the nascent stages of Art Deco, which gained prominence post-World War I. This historical context enhances its value, as it represents a bridge between traditional sculpture and the modern aesthetic of the interwar period.

The connection to the Art Deco era, combined with Schwatenberg's legacy, positions this sculpture as more than décor-it is a tangible link to a transformative period in art, appealing to those who value historical and aesthetic significance. Its presence in auction records further underscores its market value, encouraging potential buyers to consider it an investment as well as a decorative piece.