Adnet Jacques
French interior designer born in Chatillon-Cologny in 1900. Trained at the Ecole des Arts Decoratifs Paris. Worked with Selmersheim and Rapin and Dufrane, selling his items which included modernist furniture and lighting through La Maitrise and Saddler. He took over the firm of Sue et Mare in the late 1920s. Often worked in collaboration with his twin brother Jean who was the display manager for galleries Lafayette and their joint works were marked JJ Adnet.

Alliot - Lucien Charles Edoard.
Born in 1877 he was a pupil of Barrias and Couton. He exhibited at the Salon from 1905 till 1939 and was a member of the Jury from 1934 onwards.

Alonzo
Domonique Alonzo born in Paris in the late 19th century. He was a pupil of Falguiere and exhibited his works at the Salon des Artistes Francais from 1912 till 1926.

ATO
Ato is short for Hatot (Leon). He patented the classic form of pendulum which uses a magnet and coils to impulse the pendulum. This is done by the current from the first coil switching a transistor which supplies a larger current to the second coil at the right moment.

Argentor Werke
The firm Argentor Werke was located in Wimbergerstraße, in one of the inner districts of Vienna, a site where different metal-ware companies gathered together. It was the custom at the time for companies with reputation to invite artists to create designs which then were to be cast.

Argy-Rousseau, Gabriel 1885 - 1953
French master craftsman and famous for his handcrafted pate de verre techniques - unlike many other glass decorators he never mass produced. Studied at the National High School for Ceramics in Sevres in 1902, completed a degree and first exhibited his work in Pate de Verre in 1914 at the Salon des Artistes. Pate de verre consists of powdered glass molded and then fused by heat. Changed his name to his wife's maiden name in 1913. Diplayed at most of the Paris Salons in the 1920s. His work is highly sought after today and fetches a high premium.

Bachelet, Emile Just
French sculptor designed bas-releifs for the Pavilion de Nancy in 1925 Paris Exposition and was awarded a gold medal. Exhibited at the Salon in 1920. He produced many designs for use in producing ceramics and terracottas.

Bakelite - Dr Leo Baekland
A Belgian scientist, emigrated to the USA in 1889, hoping for better career opportunities. In 1907 he was working as an independent chemist when he accidentally discovered the compound of carbolic acid and formaldehyde. When he tried to reheat the solidified compound he discovered it would not melt, no matter how high the temperature. He was later able to trademark ?Bakelite? as well as two other variations ?catalin? and ?marblette? which today are also referred to as bakelite. Bakelite was the first synthetic plastic. Because of its durability and beauty its uses seemed endless, and it grew in popularity very quickly. Everything from electrical plugs, car dashboards, early radios and ornate jewellery were made from bakelite. It could be produced in a wide array of colours, but most common were white, brown, green and red. As a result of this invention, Dr Baekeland is seen as the father of the present plastic industry; costume jewellery from the 1920's-1940's bakelite era is now highly sought after.

Balleste
Enrique Molins-Balleste was born in Barcelona, a Spanish artist who later moved to Paris. It would appear that Molins and Balleste are one and the same artist and he would use either Molins or Balleste to sign his pieces. Some same figures are signed Molins whilst the other is signed Balleste. Often signed his name as BAL. Famous for his theatrical and genre groups and figural lighting. Also made many sculptures using wood as the medium.

Barbier, George
Frenchman considered by many to be one of the most significant artists of tour era, his paintings resurrect the spirit of the 1920s. His first exhibition was in 1911 and his range was wide. He illustrated books for adults and children, costumes for the theatre, ballet, cinema and fashion magazines and calendars. He was a member of the Societe des Artistes Decorateurs and also designed jewellery, glass, fabric and wall paper. He was also a writer and wrote essays for the Gazette du Bon Ton between 1915 - 1925. He lived a short life and died in 1932 at the age of 50.

Bastard Georges - 1881-1939
French Dinandier. studied at the Ecole des arts decoratifs and then at his Fathers atelier. He produced items from rare woods, ivory macassar, mother-of pearl, horn and semi-precious stone, and collaborated with Montagnac and Ruhlmann on several pieces shown at the 1925 Paris Exposition. He was later made the director of Sevres porcelain company where he produced among other things a Robj style flacon series of bottles of sportsmen which are now highly sought after and very rare.

Bauhaus 1919-1933
The German Bauhaus design school was founded by the architect Walter Gropius. Its members included engineers, designers, painters, sculptors and architects, who sought to relate form to function and aesthetic qualities to the demands of machine production, producing good quality household items mainly art deco in design.

Bazin, Francois Victor 1897-1956
Worked in France during the 20s/30s, most of his work was in bronze. His pieces are famous for being very modernist a stylised. He produced lamps, statues, bookends and car mascots all in a very unusual style. Bazin pieces are highly sought after by collectors world wide.

Bazor, Lucien
born in Paris 18/01/1889. Pupil of his father Albert Bazor, later he attended the Ecole Nationale des Beaux Arts where he studied under Patey. BAZOR exhibited at the Salons of the Société des Artistes Francais and won the Great Prize of Rome in 1923. From 1930 until 1958 he worked as chief engraver for coins.

Bazzoni, Alberto - 1889-1973
Italian artist, attended the Academia in Parma and studied under the Sculptor Gino Spalmach. Executed many war memorials after the first world war. During 1928-1931 he decorated the central station in Milan. In 1936 he produced the famous relief 'The fall of Lucifer' in the Milanese Palace of Justice. He worked until just after the second world war. He is famous for his stylised modernist works which are all of exceptional quality. In my opinion - a genius.

Beaufils, Armed Emile Jean - French artist, history unknown.

Becquerel, Andre Vincent -
1893 - 1975, born St. Andre-Farivilliers, France, studied under Lemaire and Lecourtier and specialised in animalier and child sculpture, and exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Francais from 1914-1922.

Bengel, Jakob
famous for his Art Deco jewellery items made mainly from chrome and galalith, otherwise known as Schmuck. His company was based in Idar-Oberstein Germany and his designs are famous for their Bauhaus modernist styling. Galalith has been described as a synthetic material with unlimited possibilities and jewellery was certainly one of them, it was also used for buttons and boxes and many other items. It is made from a resin produced from casein milk and formaldehyde. Gala - is greek for milk and lithos - is stone hence the name Galalith. Galalith jewellery was also produced in France and the Bengel company also exported worlwide. Many top designers worked for the company and the workers were highly skilled and trained mechanics and tool makers. Unfortunately the factory ceased production due to the second world war when jewellery production came to a halt and the machines were used for the war effort. In recent years pattern books and unused pieces of jewellery have been discovered and we are now becoming aware of the extent of the items his firm designed and produced. Much of the original stock was unsold and left and forgotten, sealed away in time capsules at the factory and other outlets and has now been found and appears on the market. These items are therefore new/old stock and usually in extremely good condition. Many of the items on my site are from these sources. There is a book on the subject called Art Deco Schmuck - Jakob Bengel Idar-oberstein Germany by Arnoldsche. ISBN number 3-89790-179-X. Today Jakob Bengels wonderful jewellery is highly sought after by collectors worldwide and some of the top pieces command a high price. Check out my Jewellery Pages for examples of his work.

Benoit, Georges - 20th century artist/sculptor born in Paris and exhibited at the Salon des Independants from 1928-1930 and specialising in mantle clocks and lighting in marble, glass and bronze and produced wonderful animalier statues.

Bergman -
Austrian artist, produced many early 20th century pieces of mainly Arab influence or subject. Also produced mechanical figures of ladies with dresses which open to reveal nudes underneath etc.

Bernard Joseph Antoine 1866 - 1928
Foremost French sculptor, designed reliefs of dancers for the 1925 Paris Exposition, Pavillon des Collectionueurs. He was given his own exhibition area at the Exhibition and his work is highly sought after.

Bex, Pierre
Jewellery company in Paris. Items were made in France from 1969 until the end of 1980. The factory is now closed, but the very high quality of its production, the use of the original tools and of the best materials give these items a great value.

Bitter, Arry
Born in Marseilles, France, Bitter was a leading French sculptor during the inter-war period in France. He was a student of famous Masters and he won many prizes while still a student. In 1914, he created a monumental terrrcotta sculpture "Exibition Sculpture" for the food pavilion in the "Exposition National Suisse" in Bern, Switzerland for the company of Nestle. He was responsible for designing many monumental sculptures (eg., Lion et Enfant) which is still in its original location. Exhibiting regularly in the prestigious Salon des Artistes Francais, and other top salons in Paris. Many of his sculptures depicted subjects popular with the Art Deco movement. His work is found in several important museums such as Musee National d' Art Moderne (Paris), Musee des Beaux-Arts (Marseille), Musee Hector Berlioz, Musee Calouste Gulbenkian (Lisbon), and others. Monumental sculptures are located in Marseille, Cambo-les-bains, Sanary-sur-mer, Bargemon and Barentin. A true Master of his Art. There is a website on Arry Bitter at this address:- http://ary.bitter.free.fr/

Bizard
Susanne Bizard was an early 20th century sculptor, she was born in St. Amand in France on August the 1st 1873, died in Paris January 21, 1963. She exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Francais from 1900 till 1936. She produced many portrait reliefs, busts, statues of children and genre groups of which Vers'Ideal (1900), Honour and Money(1903) and Diane Attendre are the best known.

Blondat, Max 1879-1926.
An Art Nouveau sculptor who also made art deco statues. He was responsible for the creation of many public monuments in the form of tombs, fountains and memorials. Famous for his allegorical subjects, he was awarded the Legion of Honor in 1925. He produced reliefs for the dining room of the Pavillon de l Ambassade in the 1925 Paris Exposition.

Boch Freres, Keramis
The Belgian company of Boch Frères was founded in 1767 at Sept Fontaines in Luxembourg, following a split in the mid 19th century, when Boch Frères, Keramis, in Belgium was set up, It produced earthenware vases, tableware¹s and candlesticks. Their wares of the mid-1920s to the 1940s represent the most important Belgian contribution to the Art Deco movement. Some stoneware¹s were also produced. but most of their pieces from this period were white-bodied. Today Boch Freres items are highly valued and sought after, especially the pieces designed by Charles Catteau or Raymond Chevalier.

Bofill, Antoine -
Born Barcelona, Spain, exhibited at Spanish and Paris salons during the 1920s.

Bosse, Walter
Viennese bronze artist, born in Vienna in 1904. Worked for the Wiener Werkstatte and was a member of the Austrian Werkbunde. Produced many small bronze animals and figures similar to Hagenauer and Balle.

Bouraine, Marcel - born in Pontoise, France, he was self-taught and was taken prisoner by the Germans during the 1914-1918 war and was interned in Switzerland where he produced several monuments. He also exhibited at all the main Paris salons. After the war he worked until 1935. Bouraine also produced designs for glass statues which were produced by Argy-Rousseau during the 1930s. Best known for his chryselephantine figures he also made full bronzes and figural groups, many with a classical theme - like Diana the Huntress or his famous Amazonian Diana with shield and spear. Bouraine used a pseudonym which was Derenne, he may also have used Briand (Brian), as there is a definate connection between the two as can be seen in the hoop dancer by both artists, which appears to be identical. Marcel Bouraine was a life long friend of Max Le Verrier and Pierre Le Faguays who all studied together at the Beaux Arts in Geneva. Later the Le Verrier foundry was to produce many of the Bouraine statues for him. Bouraine used two pseudonyms which were Derenne and Briand.

Boutarel, Simone, born in Paris. She exhibited her works at the Paris Salons during the 1920s and won a silver medal in 1937. She specialised in anamalier groups and busts.

Brandt, Edgar -
1880-1960. He Exhibited at many of the top Paris Salons. Famous for his high quality metal work - using mainly Bronze or wrought iron. He worked with many other famous artists - including Rhulmann, Dunand and Puiforcat, and also produced work similar to Paul Kiss. His items are today extremely sought after and command high prices, relevant to the quality of his work. Famous for his wrought iron work, he created an entirely new form of smithing and created a very impressive number of art historical works for buildings and for the home. His items included radiator covers, console tables, lamps, stair banisters, window grills, sculptures and gates, to name but a few. He was inspired by the artist blacksmith Emile Robert and he became a leading force in Art Deco metal work. His shop in Paris was at 27 Boulevard Malesherbes.

Breuer, Marcel 1902 - 1981
Hungarian born furniture designer and architect. Taught at the Bauhaus as head of the furniture workshop. He worked in America and worked with Walter Gropius until 1941 and was a professor of Harvard from 1937 - 1947.

Briand - pieces signed Briand were produced by the Le Verrier foundry in Paris during the deco years - ie. the famous bird lady and hoop lady, and I believe that there may have been a connection between Briand and Marcel Bouraine and the former may have been a pseudonym used by Bouraine, who already used another pseudonym - Derenne. I believe Briand was a pseudonym used by Marcel Bouraine, as can be proved by the Briand hoop dancer. I have had the large and small bronzes signed Bouraine and the large bronze signed Briand and the small art metal piece signed Briand. The two statues are exactly the same and I already know for a fact that Bouraine also used the pseudonym of Derenne.

Bugatti, Carlo 1855-1940
He was an amazing Italian furniture designer and craftsman with his own individual style which was based on extravagant ornamentation, geometric shapes and Moorish themes. He came to public attention when he designed the Moorish interior for the Italian section at the Turin International Exhibition in 1902. His designs were as much works of art as pieces of furniture. He incorporated embossed metal appliques , or ivory or pewter inlay, used a variety of woods and/or decorative material, often including vellum perhaps painted with Arab figures or scenes . His designs have to be seen to be believed.

Bugatti, Rembrandt 1885-1916
He was the son of Carlo Bugatti the furniture designer and younger brother of Ettore Bugatti the famous automobile designer. A truly remarkable family. His career spanned a mere 15 years, but during that time he created some of the finest animal sculptures ever produced. He was awarded the Legion d'Honneaur in 1911. Committed suicide 1916.

BULLE clocks
of France. There is a lot of data on the internet about this maker, but for those who don't know, they made masses and masses of clocks between the 2 world wars and slightly after, in lots of case styles.

CAMUS - Jean Marie, a French artist who exhibited at the Salon in Paris.

Carlier
Emile Joseph Nestor Carlier 1849-1927. Born in Cambrai, France and died in Paris 1927. He studied at local art schools and moved to Paris where he was a pupil of Jouffroy, Cavelier and Chapu at the Ecole des Beaux Arts.Famous for his busts, animals and genre groups. He received many medals for his work and held the rank of Officier in the Legion of Honour.

Carrier-Belleuse, Albert -
Born in 1927, he received many honours for his exceptional work. Famous for 'Nature revealing herself', died 1887, in his later years was the director of Sevres factory in France. Was responsible for the ceiling in the Louvre, Paris. Considered as a real Master of his art.

Cartier, Eugene - received Salon medal of honour 1926.

Cartier, Thomas Francois,
born in Marseille, France 1879. First exhibited at the salons in 1908. Later to receive many awards.

CARVIN Auguste - French artist who exhibited at the Salon, Paris from the early 1900s.

Causse, Cadet Julien
Born at Bourges, worked 1890 - 1914, studied in Paris under Falguiére and exhibited at The Salon des Artists Francais in the 1890s, obtaining honourable mentions in 1892 and 1900 and a third class medal in 1893. He also took part in the exposition Universelle of 1900 and specialised in small figures. Pictures of his work can be found in the Berman book of Bronzes by Schiffer books.

Chiparus
Demetre Chiparus was born in Romania on 16th Sept 1886, he later studied,worked and lived in Paris. He studied under A. Mercier and J. Boucher. He exhibited at the Salon in 1914. He is the most famous of the Deco artists and is considered the pioneer of the Art Deco Chryselephantine bronzes technique used during the 1920s and 30s. He made pieces in many mediums including bronze, bronze and Ivory (Chryselephantine) spelter, terracotta and plaster. He was greatly influenced by topics of the time. Like theatrical performances of the Ballet Russe, and had a keen interested in Egypt and this is portrayed in many of his sculptures of the 1920s and 30s. I highly recommend 'Chiparus - Master of Art Deco' by my friend Alberto Shayo - for anyone seeking information about Chiparus.

Clerc, Sylvestre - French artist born 1912. Exhibited Paris during 1920s.

Cian, Fernand - Italian sculptor exhibited in Paris during the 1911 - 1928

Cipriani, Ugo 1897 - 1960
Italian sculptor born in Florencia, Italy on 13th August 1897, died in Paris in June 1960. Studied at the famous Accademia di Belle Arti di Firenze. He followed in his Fathers footsteps as he too was a sculptor. One of Ugo Cipriani's most famous works is a statue of the patriot Oberdan in the Oberdan's square in Florencia dated 1919. He left Italy for france around 1935-1937 to escape from Mussolini's fascist government and became a political refugee in Paris where he kept on working his craft until his death. Produced many fine art deco statuary items in various mediums including spelter, bronze and terracotta. I thank Ugo Cipriani's daughter, Lydia and son Gabriel for this important information.

CLARA Juan. Spanish sculptor worked and exhibited in the Paris Salons.

Colinet, Claire Jeanne Roberte -
Belgian sculptor, born in Brussels, worked from 1910 - 1940. Exhibited at the Salon des Independants from 1937, famous for her dancers from different continents of the world series.

Conde, Geo - Georges Jean Conde, born 25 June 1891, famous sculptor and ceramics artist who worked for the St. Clement ceramics company in Lorraine, along with Lemenceau during the 1920s. Conde items are now highly sought after and he is now considered on par with Pompon, Adnet, Puiforcat and Sandoz, and is particularly famous for his stylised craquelier pieces.

Costa, Joaquin, -
born in Italy and exhibited there and in France in the early 1920s. Worked 1905-1935.

Cotswold School 1893 - mid 1930's
A loose association of English furniture makers, located first at Pinbury and then at Sapperton in the Cotswolds, Gloucestershire led by Ernest Gimson and the Barnsley brothers (Sydney and Ernest). They attempted to unite the traditional rural craftsmanship with the handcrafting principles advocated by the Arts & Crafts movement.

CROUZAT, Georges - (1904 - 1976)
French medallist, pupil of Landowski and Dropsy. Studied at Ecole nationale superieure des Beaux Arts in Paris.

Dakon Stephan - 1904 - 1992
Stephan Dakon was born in Vienna 14th Nov 1904 and was a freelance sculptor and ceramist, famous mainly for his sculptural work in the production of deco female dancers. His work was very similar to that of Lorenzl and at one time it was believed that Dakon and Lorenzl were one and the same artist, we now know otherwise. It is however apparent that they worked together at Goldscheider. After finishing school, he attended a school for sculptors and then served an apprenticeship at the bronze foundry in the Vienna Arsenal. Whilst there he made the acquaintance of Josef Lorenzl who later became a fellow colleague at Goldscheider in Vienna. It was on Lorenzl's recommendation that Dakon was employed by Goldscheider in 1924 as a freelance designer. He took up military service in Finland and Norway during the second world war and was interned as a prisoner. On his return to Austria he took up where he had left off and did similar works for the American Goldscheider Corporation in Trenton, New Jersey and also worked for Adolf Prischl and William Goebel. From 1945 he also worked for Keramos Wiener Kunstkeramik, who produced ceramics and porcelain items. Dakon's work is now highly sought after by collectors world wide and he is considered to have been a prolific and versatile artist. His work is of exceptional quality and he is not only famous for his statuary work but he was undoubtedly one of the most important designers of ceramic wall masks and figurines.

D'Aste Joseph - Italian Born artist who exhibited at Salons in Italy and France during the 1920s. Worked mainly in portrait and figural sculptures.

Daum, Auguste
born 1853 and died 1909. A French man who formed a glass company famous for its glass decorating techniques which were similar to those used by their neighbouring company of Galle. Auguste, the founder of the company was later joined by his two sons in the business - Lois Auguste and Jean Antonin who carried on the company. The company is still working today.

Daum, Jean -
father of the famous Daum brothers was originally a solicitor not a glass maker. He took over a glassworks near Nancy, France, in 1878 as part payment of a debt. His son Auguste (who had been trained as a lawyer) joined him shortly afterwards, to help improve the business. More than a decade later, and some five years after their father had died, the younger brother Antonin (a newly trained engineer) joined him. It was their business and creative skills which made the Verrerie de Nancy a success. The company originally specialized in watch glasses, window glass, and glassware for taverns. They exhibited their tableware at the Paris Exhibition of 1889, it was here that Auguste and Antoni were impressed and influenced by the art glass work of Emile Gallé. They started with enamelled and engraving and from there they moved on to become one of the major forces in the art nouveau movement, seriously rivaling Gallé. When Gallé died in 1904 they became the leaders. At the beginning of 1900 Paul Daum ( son of the famous Auguste Daum ) started his own glass atelier under the name Leune 'Société Anonyme des Établissements'. Between 1923 and 1926 Auguste-Claude Heiligstein started as art director at the atelier. The family firm 'Daum Fréres & Cie' produced the glass models for the firm Leune. All the models where designed and decorated by Auguste-Claude Heiligstein even the pressed decorated ones. At the beginning of the 1930s the firm closed.

Dauvergne, J. -
French artist worked mainly in spelter (white metal) during the 1920s - 1930s. Famous for his Dianne & Ibex and The Hooplady.

Delabrierre, Paul Edouard, 1892 - 1912
Born in Paris and died there in 1912. Animalier sculptor and artist, made his debut at the Salon 1948, exhibiting there regularly until 1882. He exhibited a wide range of animals including hunting dogs, race horses, game birds and wild animals, including bears, tigers, lions, antelope and camels. His works were famous for their characterisation, realism and exceptional quality. Of his larger statues the most famous was L'Equetation which was produced for the facia of the Louvre in Paris in 1875.

Delatte, André -
Worked Jarville, Nancy, France (1921 - c 1930). Famous for his top quality glass wares considered on par with the top deco glass makers like Daum, Lalique, Muller, Sabino and Leunne. Specialising in thick, top quality glass items which were sand blasted, acid etched and usually heavily hand enamelled. Signed pieces Dalatte and sometimes Jarvil.

De LaTour
Amelia Cate De LaTour, born in Scotland and studied at the Bournmouth School of Art, the Central School of Art and the central School of Arts and Crafts. She settled in Bournemouth where she worked during the 1920s as a painter and sculptor of mainly animal subjects. She Exhibitied at the Royal Academy and the Salon des Artistes Francais and many leading British Galleries.

De Marco
One of the Le Verrier artistes, famous for his Atlante and group Atlante piece.

Debry, Sophie - She exhibited at the Salon Paris 1920s.

Decoux, Michel
1837 - 1924, believed to be a Belgian artist famous for her stylised animals mainly in bronze, but some spelters. Panthers being the most famous subjects, were extremely streamlined and often chromed bronze. Made a few human statues but concentrated mainly on animal subjects during the deco years. Her work was of exceptional quality and her statues were also used to decorate many deco clocks. I personally love most Decoux pieces and I would put her work on par with the work of Lavroff - although she is not as well known. If any one reading this has any more info on Decoux or indeed any of the other artists please share it with me and the viewers of my website.

Degue - Degue Art Glass. Founded by David Guéron, a Turkish Soldier and soldier of the French Foreign Legion. The company was originally called Cristalleries De Compiégne and produced various household glass items. The name changed to Verrerie D'Art Degué in 1926, producing stunning Modernist glass ware items including vases, and many ceiling lamps and table lamps. Degue had a show room at 41 rue de Paris. The work produced by the Degue company is now highly sought after worldwide and renowned for the excellent quality.

Delabrierre, Paul Edouard 1829 - 1912
French sculptural artist born in Paris specialising in animal sculptures. He produced hunting dogs, race horses, game birds and exotic zoo animals such as lions, tigers camels and bears. Most being sand cast in bronze. His most famous work is the large group entitled L'Equitation which he produced for the face of the Louvre in Paris in 1875.

Delamarre, Raymond (1890-1986)
Considered as one of the 'new breed' of French sculptor-medallists (along with Annette Landry, Albert Pommier, Georges Guiraud and many others). Considered as a master in his art. Even though accomplishing a very wide array of medals, one of his best known pieces is the Art Deco-style Compagnie Generale Transatlantique medal for the ship Ville D'Algers in 1935. An apprentice of his own father, a highly regarded engraver and chiseller (stone sculptor). Worked with Rodin. Won the Grand Prix de Rome in 1919. His early work focused on creating monumental sculptures. Won the Gold Medal at the 1925 Exposition des Arts Decoratifs. Received the Chevalier of the Légion d'Honneur.

Delapchier, Louise - born in France, exhibited at salons 1904 - late 1920s.

Paul Delaunay
Paul Delaunay, born 1883 in Paris, studied in France and emigrated to the USA. Became a member of the American Artist Professional League and Director of the Academy of Fine Arts in Birmingham, Alabama. Famous for sculpting monuments and memorials, genre figures and portraits.

Delannoy, Maurice - born Paris 1885, received several medals from the Salon during the 1920s - 1930s.

Delannoy, Pierre Francois Fernand - born in Paris, exhibited at the Paris salons during 1920s, and received ah honourable mention for his work.

Denis -
French artist, work produced mainly by the Le Verrier foundry in Paris. Famous for his Scarf Dancer and Ball Dancer.

Derby Sophie - French artist exhibited at the Salon during the 1920s.

Derenne - Pieces signed Derenne were produced by the Le Verrier foundry in Paris during the deco years, and Derenne was a pseudonym used by Marcel Bouraine. It would appear that it was not unusual for sculptors to use pseudonyms. Bouraine used the two pseudonyms - Derenne and Briand.

Descomps, Jean, worked and exhibited at the Paris Salons during the 20s and 30s.

DESCOMPS, JOSEPH. 1869 - 1950
French Sculptor, born Joseph Descombes Cormier at Clermont-Ferrand on the 18th January 1869. Studied under Hiollin and exhibited in Paris at the Salon des Artists , he won medals in 1921, 1925 and 1928. He also exhibited at the Salon d'Automne and the Tuileries. He specialized in figural statues, mainly ladies.

De Viggo - See Menneville.

Diey - Yves, 1892 - 1984 born in Paris in 1882 and worked during the early 20th century. He participated in the Salon des Artistes Français and won a silver medal in 1942. Diey was famous as a painter of nudes and portraits of women, and also typical Spanish and Moroccan scenes. Although there is little biographical information on the artist, he is well known to French art dealers by virtue of the fact that he was extremely prolific and his works were generally of very high quality.

Drouot Edouard 1859-1945
A French sculptor, he was born in Sommevoire (Haute - Marne), on 3rd April 1859. Studied in Paris under Mathurin Moreau and Emile Thomas. He won a third class medal at the Salon of 1892 (where exhibited from 1889). He also received an Honourable mention at the Exposition Universelle of 1900 for his work entitled L'Amateur, a life size marble submitted to the Paris Salon in 1893. He specialized in sports and hunting scenes, Eastern subjects, and mythological subjects such of pan and other nymph type statues. His pieces tend to lean towards the fluid lines of the Nouveau period and have lots of movement to them. He is considered by many to have been a genius and his pieces are highly sought after by collectors and Museums worldwide.

Ebena
The company of Ebena produced pieces in its factory in Wynegham, Belgium and worked from 1921 - 1931. It produced articles it described as 'Articles de Fantaisie et articles industriels en matiere moulee'. This is the title of the Book on Ebena, produced by the Kunst Museum Dusseldorf (made in 1987). Items that included lamp bases, ashtrays, radios, urns, clocks, light pulls, necklaces, humidors and boxes were made of an early galalith-bakelite material. It was squashed in to the molds using gold and silver leaf which added a stunning glitter to the pieces. Most of the boxes and lamps tend to have a figural finial handle, often in the form of Pierrot, Egyptian cats, and Buddha's, deco ladies and tassels. Ebena does tend to fade with age but you can usually see the amazing original colours inside where it has not been exposed to too much light. They are still stunning pieces that are collected world wide. You will find several pieces on my websites.

Erphila Ceramics
American ceramics company famous for its wall masks. Often marked with reverse E and R letters standing for Ebeling & Reuss who founded the ERphila Company in Philadelphia, PA during the deco years.

Etling - Edmond Laurent Etling,
First formed the company of Etling in 1909, at his foundry he produced top quality ornamental items including bronze, and bronze and ivory statues, ceramics and glass. He had a shop in Paris at 29 Rue de Paradis. Here he sold his wares which were designed by top freelance designers of the deco period like Alliott, Alonzo, Chiparus, Gazan, Colinet, Bel, Guiraud-Riviere, Descompe, Godard and Guillard. Etling pieces are famous for their innovative design and quality and are today highly sought after.

Faure Antoine Ferdinand - fl. 19th century
Born in Marseilles in mid 19th century, he studied at the Marseilles School of fine arts and was later a pupil of Cavalier at the Ecole des Beaux arts Paris. Exhibited at the Salon from 1882 to the end of the century and specialized in genre subjects and classical bronzes, including Childhood of Bacchus. He won a third class medal and a traveling scholarship in 1893. His larger works were sculpted in marble and he was employed as a restorer of the sculpture in the Court of honor at the Palace of Versailles in 1888. Many of his works were designed as decorative pieces for the Museum of Egyptian Antiquities in Cairo, inaugurated in 1897.

Fayral
Fayral and Guerbe were 2 pseudonyms used by the famous Pierre Le Faguays. Fayral and Guerbe were both the family names for his Mother and his Wife. Le Faguays was born in Nantes, France and became famous for the originality he gave his dancers, many of which were inspired by the statues of Tanagra. He gained a medal of honour for his work in 1927. He was a best friend of Max Le Verrier and the Le Verrier foundry made most of - if not all of his pieces.

Foretay, Alfred Jean
Born January 1861 in Morges, France. He studies under Falguiere, exhibiting portraits, busts and statues at various Salons. Won an honorable mention in 1891 along with a 3rd class medal in 1904. Produced mainly Nouveau style statues in bronze or spelter.

Fornells, Edouard
Designer who worked with Rene Lalique from 1911. He designed bottles in glass and also many bakelite items, mainly for perfume companies. Famous for his stylised foliage patterns. His items were displayed at the top Salons and the Decorative Arts Exhibition of 1925. His items are now highly sought after by collectors worldwide.

Fraisse, Edouard
born in Beaune France the 14th of May 1880 died in Paris 13rd of September 1945. Pupil of Coutan, Chaplain and Vernon. Since 1904 he exhibited at the Salon of the Société des Artistes Francais. In 1908 Fraisse competed for the Prix de Rome for which he received a second prize award. In 1929 he was made Chevalier of the Legion of Honor. In 1937 he received a gold medal.

Francisque -
20th century sculptor working in bronze during the 1920s, based in Marseille.

Franjou -
I do not have any information on Franjou but it is my opinion that there was a connection between Franjou and Moreau. I believe that Franjou was probably a pseudonym used by Moreau. I have had statues and figural items which are the same statue and have been signed in either name. It was not unusual for sculptors to use Pseudonyms. Most of the items tend to be comical animal subjects often with celluloid cross-eyes.

Fugere, Henry -
born 1872, France. Studied with Barrias, Cavelier, Puech, exhibited at the Salon, Paris.

Galle, Emile
(1846-1904) - the other famous French glass artist. Opened a small glass factory in Nancy France in 1874. He is probably the most famous of the glass artists and was famous for cameo glass, acid etching and enamelling. His company continued on after his death until 1935.
Galle was the principal force in a group of French Art Nouveau artists and designers working in and around Nancy. On his initiative in c1890 they formed a school. Members included the Daum brothers and Louis Majorelle. He is well known for his hand made high quality furniture and exquisite glassware.

Jean Joseph Galle 1884 -
born in Rennes, he studied under Coutan and exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Francais. He produced a number of monuments and statues and specialised in portrait busts and medalions.

Gallo
Ignacio Gallo was born in Valladolid, Spain in the 19th century. He worked 1910 - 1935 specialising in statuettes of bathers, dancers, nudes and pagan goddesses. I believe his main foundry was Marcel Guillemard.

Gauthier, Joseph - born Carcassone early 20th century, exhibited sculpture items in the Paris salons during the 1920s.

Generalli, Amadee
born in Naples in 1891. Many believe his name to have been Amadeo but it was not, it was Amadee. I have gained this information from some Interior design magazines that I have dating from the 1920s. It would appear that he did not go to an Art School but was an apprentice of Francesco Jerace - it was during this time that he gained his notoriety. He produced many bronzes and terracotta's some of which were retailed through Alfred Dunhill 15 Rue de la Paix Paris. Dunhill also had branches in London and New York. Many of Genneralli's terracotta's were made using the lost wax method and limited to only 10 copies of each. His work is highly collectible today and admired for the quality of workmanship.

Gilbert, Alfred -
born London 1854. Most famous work, Eros in London's Trafalgar Square. Died 1934.

Goebels -
The firm of Goebels opened in 1871 in Thuringia, Germany a town well known for its wonderful porcelain and ceramics. Franz Detleff Goebel and his son, William, began by making slate pencils and children's marbles, eventually he went on to produce ceramics. In the early years the company concentrated mostly on dinnerware and figurines. Later on the company was taken over by Franzs son William who had a good eye for marketing and fashion. He expanded the product line and changed the company name to W.Goebel Porzellanfabrik. William sent his young son Max Louis to America. Although he returned with many new ideas the company was badly hit by the first world war and the stock market crash and nearly went out of business. By 1935 the firm was saved by the discovery of the artwork of a Franciscan Sister, Maria Innocentia Hummel, a gifted, academy-trained artist. Her art work of children was being printed in the form of post cards and was proving to be very popular. Goebel produced these children figures as small figurines and they sold very well and are still highly collected today. Since the Second World War, the firm has expanded and increased production, and is now in its sixth generation of family management. The company now consists of seven firms and has over 1800 employees worldwide.

Goldscheider Frederic
Moved from the Bohemian City of Pilsen to Vienna and in 1885 opened the famous Goldscheider factory there. Here he made a name for himself as a ceramist working in several mediums including terracotta, ceramics and bronze. He had subsidiary companies in Florence, Paris and Leipzig. For over half a century Goldscheider created masterpieces of historical revivalism, Art Nouveau (Jugendstil) and Art Deco. He employed many famous and independent artists to create designs for him - these were to include, Josef Lorenzl, Stefan Dakon, Ida Meisinger, Prischl and the two perhaps best known Austrian ceramic artists Michael Powolny and Vally Wieselthier . He is famous for his high quality and now very collectible Busts and wall masks. Frederic was forced to emigrate in 1938 due to war and anti-semitism. The company continued to produce items during the war but the range of models were considerably reduced. After temporary nationalisation the firm was restored in May 1950 to its former owner Walter F. Goldscheider. More than 9,000 different models were created over a period of three generations. Many pieces won gold medals and prizes at world fairs recognized for the exceptional quality of items. The company closed its doors in 1953 when the old moulds were destroyed. Goldscheider figures are nowadays very much sought after by collectors world-wide and reach astonishing prices at top auction houses all over the world.

Gori
Georges Gori born in Paris at the turn of the century, he studied under Injalbert and exhibited his works at the Salon des Artistes from 1929 and won a bronze medal in 1931.

Gory, Affortunato
Italian sculptor born in Florence in 1895 and died in 1925. Worked mainly in bronze or bronze and ivory but also produced a few spelter pieces. Exhibited in Paris.

GRANGER, Genevieve (1877-1967)
Sculptor and Ceramist, studied under Henri DUBOIS, became a member of the Society of French artists in 1899, winning a medal from them in 1927. A former member of the Salon of Artistes and decorators.

Gregoire
Emile Gregoire, specialised in genre sculpture working in Brossac France in the early 20th century. Gregoire was born in 1871, and was a French artist who studied under Dubois and Thomas. Won the Prix de Rome Medal in 1899. Famous for specialising in medals and plaques.

Grossl, Karl
Ceramist and modeller worked mainly freelance and on commission for Goldscheider, Keramia, Majolika-Fabrtik, Rorstrand and Jasba. Designed a large amount of wall masks for Keramia and Keramos. Later her became a ceramics teacher.

Grun, Samuel -
Russian artist worked in London and Paris during the 1920's and 1930's. Exhibited at the Royal Academy and Paris Salons.

Guerbe - See Fayral

Guerval, A. -
Wife of Pierre Le Faguays. First exhibited in 1924. Her most famous work was entitled Dawn.

Marcel GUILLARD (1896-?)
Painter, ceramist and sculptor. Produced work for the Salon of Independence. I believe he was a sculptor who produced works for the Etling foundry who at one time had his own foundry producing works for himself and other artistes. He also worked in conjunction with other artists.

Guéron, David,
of Turkish origin and a former soldier in the French Foreign Legion, was the founder of the "Cristalleries De Compiégne". This glassworks mainly produced household glass in the early 1920s. In 1926 he founded a new factory, which he called 'Verrerie D'Art Degué' and put all his efforts in the design and production of Art Deco luxury art-glass. His new factory was located on the "Boulevard Malesherbes" and his showroom was on the "41 rue de Paris". His new factory mainly produced vases, lamps and chandeliers.

Guillemette l'Hoir jewellery 1976 - 1985
François Schoenlaub first became aware of Galalith (or French bakelite) in 1976 when he stumbled across some art deco jewellery that was signed Auguste Bonaz. Bonaz was a creator of chrome and galalith jewellery based in Oyonnax, Germany. The factory of Bonaz had practically ceased its production and Schoenlaub was quick to realise the potential of using the galalith as a medium to create contemporary designer jewellery. After 14 years spent in advertising Schoenlaub was very creative and recognised its potential. He contacted a French factory which still produced galalith and set up the company GUILLEMETTE L'HOIR, PARIS (named after his companion of the time). He designed and produced his first collection of jewellery in 1976 - refined and minimalist in style and it was instantly successful. He mixed galalith with other materials - precious wood, plexiglass, horn, black rubber - each piece cut and crafted by hand and then polished. He invented subtle ranges of colour, taking inspiration from the major creative trends of the time, notably the Memphis group, resulting in eye-catching jewellery. His items of jewellery are on show at the Museum of decorative Arts in Paris. The business closed in 1985 and his pieces are highly sought after by collectors worldwide. You can view his website at www.schoenlaub-galalith.com

Guiraud Riviere
Maurice Giraud Riviere, born in Toulouse France. became a member of the Salon where he exhibited his works during the 1920s and 1930s.

Hagenauer
Austria and its cultural centre of Vienna has produced some amazing bronze artists. Lorenzl Baller Bosse and Hagenauer who between them produced some wonderful decorative accessories and sculptural items during the Deco years. The firm of Hagenauer was first started in 1898 by Carl Hagenauer (1872-1928) and produced items designed by Hagenauer and many other artists including Josef Hoffman and the Wiener Werkstatte. Carl Hagenauer was an apprentice Goldsmith for Austrian Jewellery firms. The firm of Hagenauer exhibited its work at many Exhibitions in Paris, London and Berlin and its works were widely exported world wide. The Hagenauer company was a family run business and Carls son Karl (1888-1956) joined his Father in the firm in 1919 aged 31. He contributed considerably to the firm as he was highly appraised sculpture in his own right. Other members of the family also contributed styles and techniques to the Hagenauer company.

Hettier and Vincent - French manufacturer of top bronze lighting during the 1920s/30s, with shops in Paris at 9 Place des Vosges and 10 Rue de Turenne.

Hutschenreuther, Carl Magnus (1793 -),
born Thuringia, Germany, ceramics painter and decorator who founded the first porcelain studio in Bavaria producing excellent quality ceramics using kaolin in 1814 while just 21 years old. He opened a second factory in 1857 in Selb, (home of Rosenthal), and with his son Lorenz taking charge, started producing stunning quality ceramics at both sites using models created and decorated by brilliant artists such as Werner, Fritz, Defanti, Tutter and numerous others. In 1969 both factories joined under the name of Hutschenreuther AG, in Selb, where quality ceramics are still being produced.

Ingels, Domien
Born in Gent Belgium 1881 - 1946, Exhibited at Academy Des Beaux Arts in Gent, where he later became a teacher. A Sculptor who worked in many mediums including wood, plaster, terracotta and metal. He excelled in Animal subjects, Busts, wall Plaques and was responsible for several Monuments in Antwerp. In 1930 he opened a business producing wall plaques and masks in Drongen, Belgium. He showed these at the Exposition International des Arts and Techniques in Paris in 1937.

Janle - Janle was of the sculptors whose work was produced by the Le Verrier foundry, Paris during the 1920s. Pieces were produced in spelter, pewter and bronze.

Joma ­ A French glass factory, dates unknown, but they were definitely very busy during the 1920/30s. It was during these years that the many hand painted enamel vases and other items were produced. Mostly in bright Deco geometric or floral designs. The company also produced press­moulded vases which are usually signed Joma Fabrications Francaise.

Jonette Jewellery
The Jonette Jewellery Company, was set up by a couple called by John and Etta, hence the name Jonette. It was based in Rhode Island, USA and started business in the 1920s making humourous and unusual jewellery to suit all tastes. I have included many of their items on my websites as I think the quality is excellent and the ideas, many of which are Deco themed - are very innovative. All brooches are fitted with a safety clasp, signed JJ and some are very large in size, making a very big Deco statement at an affordable price.

Jorel, Alfred - 19th/20th centuries
Worked in Paris as a genre sculptor and died there in 1927. Was an Associate of the Artistes Francais in 1896 and 1927 just before his death he was awarded a third class medal in 1907.

Kauba, Carl
Austrian artist Carl Kauba was born in Vienna 1865, and died in 1922.

Kelety, Alexander -
Born in Budapest, Hungary date unknown, worked 1918-1940. Studied in Toulouse France along with Imre Simay. He then moved to Paris where he studied and exhibited during the inter war years. Highly acclaimed for the quality of his works which are well sought after by collectors world wide. His most famous pieces being 'The release' and 'The Archer' - he also produced some wonderful children statues of exceptional character and quality.

Keramos - Keramos Wiener Kunstermik
A Vienna ceramics company which in 1939 joined forces with Porzellanmanufaktur Bruder Wolf KG to become Keramos. Among the owners were two sculptors/ceramists Robert Obsieger and Rudolf Podany. The company produces earthenware statues and many wall masks which were designed by Stephan Dakon, Rudolf Podany and Ina Eisenbeisser.

Keramia
Another Austrian ceramics company making mainly statues and wall masks. Many wall masks designed by Karl Grossl.

Kiss, Paul - French artist famous for his art deco ornamental ironwork, producing excellent quality items considered by many to be on par with Edgar Brandt. Items were produced in bronze and ironwork and included, radiator covers, console tables, lamps, stair banisters, window grills, and gates - although he specialised more in lighting. His shop was based at 10 Rue des Perichaux, Paris.

Knorlein, Rudolf 1902 - 1988
Sculptor and ceramist worked for the Wienner Werkstatte and Gmundner keramik and for Goldscheider. He was famous for his new colours and glazes which played a major design role in the West German Goldscheider range. He also designed wall masks for Goldscheider.

Knox, Archibald 1864-1933
He was born and educated on the Isle of Man. Knox was the most important of the designers, called upon by Arthur Lasenby of the famous London Liberty store. He produced more than 400 designs for the Cymric range as well as some designs for the Tudric pewter range which were inspired by the earlier Cymric wares. His observation of Celtic remains on the Isle of Man were the underlying influence on his choice of decoration. The ornate elements are easily recognized and often incorporated spear-headed entrelac symbols ( a form of interlaced decoration drawn from ancient jewellery). Pieces are often embellished with peacock blue/green enamels and or inset with turquoise, lapis lazulli or similar semi-precious stone cabochons.

Kolzoff, Serge
Born September 1892 in Moscow, studied at Moscow school of fine arts and was winner of its gold medal. Most of his work was realistic, but during the 1920s his style changed to constructivism.

Lambeaux, Joseph (Jef) Marie Thomas - Belgian artist born in Antwerp in 1852, died 1908 Brussels. Famous as the teacher of Colinet. Jef Lambeaux was born into an artistic family. He learnt sculpting at the Antwerp Academy with Jozef Geefs as his teacher. In Paris he helped J. Beers in his atelier, later he also worked at the atelier of J. Vanaise. Lambeaux took part in many exhibitions, won a gold medal in 1881, and in 1882 was given a scholarship by the city of Antwerp, which he used to travel to Italy. The main theme in his work is the expression of movement, nude figures become more important as time passes. He also made busts and in Italy he found inspiration for making fauns. He designed the Caryatids of the Antwerp city hall, the famous Brabo-fountain in the same city, as well as many other important monuments. His most important work is The Calvary of the Human Race which in 1899 was placed in the Brussels Jubelpark in a small building designed by the architect Victor Horta.

Larche, Raoul-Francois 1860-1912
A renown French sculptor mainly known for top quality bronze female figures, possibly gilded, often naked or sheathed in drapery. He produced a series of well known figures based on the american actress and dancer, Loie Fuller who was regarded as a living embodiment of Art Nouveau.

LARROUX Antonin - French artist born in Toulouse 1859.

LAURENT Blanche - French, born in Paris and exhibited there.

LAURENT G. H. - 20th century artist famous for his many bronze animalier sculptures. No further information currently available.

LAURENT Pierre - born in Montlucon, 1868, a student of Barrias, won several awards.

Lavroff
George Lavroff was born Georgui Dimitrievitch Lavrov in Siberia in 1895. He studied painting and medicine at the University of Tomsk. In 1917-20 - he served in the 6th Regiment of the partisans of Azchipov. 1923-1926 - He became a member of the Russian artistes association in Moscow and in 1927-1935 Lavroff was sent to France to promote Soviet Art. This was the start of the famous works we now associate with George Lavroff and for which he is famous, mainly his art deco animal statues. He worked in several mediums mainly bronze and ceramics. For some time he worked closely in conjunction with Marcel Guillemard and indeed some of Lavroffs statues and other items are marked Guillemard and not Lavroff. He moved back to Russia in 1935. From 1940-1980 Lavroff worked mainly on monumental sculptures and busts of important members of the Soviet society. Displaying his works in many of the important Salons. In 1982 there was an exhibition which was devoted to his work. In 1984 - George Lavroff became a member of the Republic Socialists of the Soviet Federations of Russia. He died on August the 29th 1991 at the ripe old age of 96 years! Lavroff is famous for the quality of his pieces, and his work is highly sought after by collectors world wide today. Not all Lavroff pieces are signed.

Lea Stein
Lea Stein was born in Paris and married Fernand Steinberger in the 1950s. She was once a designer for Cocoa Chanel. In the 1960s she left Chanel and formed her own jewellery company making unusual and original jewellery items, with the help of her Husband who was a chemist. He created the formula used to create the the laminated celluloid which her jewellery is made of. Prices vary according to whether it is an early or recent piece and its rarity.

Le Faguays, Pierre
Pierre Le Faguays was born in Nantes, France and became famous for the originality he gave his dancers, many of which were inspired by the statues of Tanagra. He gained a medal of honour for his work in 1927. He was a best friend of Max Le Verrier and the Le Verrier foundry produced many of his pieces. He used 2 pseudonyms as well as his own name and they were Fayral and Guerbe. Which were the family names of his Mother and his Wife. He was a leading sculptor and his work is frequently praised for its high quality and attention to anatomical accuracy. He also produced designs for Goldscheider in Paris under the "La Stele" label. He worked in several mediums including ivory, bronze, spelter, stone, wood, alabaster and ceramics. He studied with his friend Max Le Verrier. He was a good friend of both Marcel Bouraine and Max Le Verrier and indeed the Le Verrier foundry produced many of the Le Faguays statues. All three had studied together at the Beaux Arts in Geneva and remained life-long friends.

Le Verrier, Max - 1981 - 1973
Born in Neuilly-sur-Seine 29th Jan 1891. After serving in the war he studied at the Beaux Arts in Geneva furthering his talent for art work and sculpture. He studied along side the famous sculptors Pierre Le Faguays and Bouraine who became his life long friends. He was later to produce many pieces for them at his Ateliere in Paris, which he opened in 1919. Here he produced his very first commercial sculpture 'The Pelican' which was to be the first of many wonderful pieces of his vast and very versatile collection of statues. His foundry also produced the works of other artists like Fayral and Guerbe (pseudonyms used by Le Faguays), Le Faguays, Derenne (a pseudonym used by Bouraine), Bouraine, Masson, Charles, Becquerel, Janle, Denis, De Marco, Garcia and Briand (who in my opinion was another pseudonym used by Bouraine). Max Le Verrier appears to have been very particular who he would produce pieces for and their standard of work had to be as high as his own, as all of the Le Verrier foundry items are of exceptionally good quality and bear a similar stylisation. Statues were produced in different forms and sizes. For instance the large 'Group Atalante' was produced in a large and a smaller version both had a lady and a leaping gazelle on the base. The same De Marco lady was produced on her own without the deer, in a larger and smaller size and it was called 'Atalante'. The lady from this group was designed by the artist De Marco and the Gazelle was a work designed by Le Verrier. So it would appear that the two artists put their own statues together to produce the 'Group Atalante' statue. Interestingly Le Verrier also used the leaping gazelle in the larger size as a statue in its own right and a smaller version of the same deer was produced as bookends. Le Verrier won a gold medal from the Salon in 1925, this period was known as his animal period when he produced many lions, panthers, horses monkeys, hippos, dogs and birds. Most of the Le Verrier pieces were produced in the companys secret formula metal that they called 'art cast'. It is a grey metal often confused as bronze due to its weight and quality. The moulds were designed by M ax Le Verrier himself. Some bronzes were also produced and so were some ceramic and terra-cotta pieces, each sculpture being hand finished. Le Verrier is in my opinion one of the best sculptors of the art deco years. Probably his most famous piece is 'Clarte' the nude lady lamp (produced in 1928) which came in 4 sizes - the largest being life sized - each has a different name. As is the case with many artists he may have used as many as 6 different models for each statue to produce what he saw as the perfect woman. In his early years he (along with many other artists) used a pseudonym which was 'Artus' this can often be seen on the vulture statues and wall lights. His foundry is famous for the production of very stylish lights, statues, busts, ashtrays, dishes, bookends car mascots and paper weights. His pieces are of the highest quality and highly collectable.

LEONARD Charles - French artist exhibited at the Salon.

LEONARDI (LEONARDENE CO.)
English Manufacturer of what the firms advertising department called 'Art Models - Figures designed and modelled in England'. These items were made during the 1920s and 30s and the owner of the Company was called Leonardi. The Company was based in Elthone Road, Holloway London. They produced a wide range of plaster Art Deco figures, which included Ladies, lady lamps, Bookends, Mirror ladies, Men, Children, Animals and wall masks. The early lady lamps were mounted on chrome bases, and many or the same figures were put to different uses. You could often get a certain model as a figure and as a lamp. Each Leonardi item was stamped on the back of the base, usually with a registration number, model number and the distinct CL initials which are stamped on top of each other. Each model number was given a name and was available in a selection of different colours, which included Jade, Matt Rose, Pearl, Green Pearl, Metallic, Copper-Green, Green-Gold, and Silver-Blue. Other colours were obtainable by special order. These pieces were made as affordable items for the general public and today are highly sought after and very collectible. The quality and style of the Leonardi pieces is not the usual poor quality found in your average Deco plaster figures. Even Biba during the 1970s reproduced some of the Leonardi lamps, these ones are of course not stamped.

Leune Studio Glass
The Leune studios were situated in Paris, France and produced lots of art deco items in the 1920's and 1930's. The studio director was Auguste Heiligeinstein, and the glass was made by Daum in Nancy or Croismare and supplied to the Leune artisans who hand decorated them. Pieces were of the same period, style and quality as Daum, Muller, Schneider, Degue and Noverdy.

Leune - Hand painted enamel glass items.
Called the Societe des Anonyme des Etablissements, Leune's glass factory was in Paris, France at 28 Rue du Cardinal Lemoine, established around 1900. During the 1920's Paul Daum (brother of Jean Louis Daum) worked as the director of this company. In the years 1923-1926 they employed Auguste-Claude Heiligenstein as art designer. The company of Daum Fréres & Cie, Verreries de Nancy supplied the unpainted items that were hand decorated after designs by Heiligenstein. The company closed at some time during the early 1930s. All enamel painted items where signed with Leune. While press-moulded vases have a printed stamp. It is possible that the company also made lamps that were signed Leunox.

Leyritz, Leon Marie de Leyritz
born 7th January 1888 in Paris. Versatile statuary artist worked in many materials including bronze, lead, aluminium, spelter, stone and ceramics. Studies under J P Aube and Mercie. Won Prix Chenavard in 1914. Exhibited at the Paris Salons winning many medals and prizes between 1912 and 1931. Specialising in theatrical decor, he producing many busts and bas-reliefs of theatrical personalities and subjects.

Lindsey B
Trained in graphic design at the St Martins School of Art in London. Focusing on 3D form after a fortuitous encounter with John Taylor, who was the principal sculptor to Adel Roostein Mannequins. She was to work with John for ten year, during which time she experimented with technique and materials to evolve a style which evoked enthusiastic critical acclaim. In 1983 with the introduction of a range of decorative ceramic, plaster and resin sculpture, the company of Lindsey B was formed. The collection was first shown in London and New York, and subsequently exhibited in major cities across Europe and America. Lindsey B reproductions were distributed throughout the world. Alongside her decorative work, Lindsey also developed a line of ornamental figures for use in commercial interiors and display. She also undertook specialised projects in creative advertising and the moving picture and theatrical industries. All originals were sculpted by Lindsey B at her Fulham Studios and decorative finishes were created in collaboration with her design team. Each Lindsey B piece was individually hand-made and usually signed in the mould. Although the signature is not always easily visible as it is sometimes under the glaze. She made busts, wall plaques, candle sets, vases and other decorative items. Including a life size Garconne (waiter) and Agatha (Waitress) - which are now extremely rare - probably due to their fragility and price. Sculptures include such pieces as:- Ruby, Peking, Rick and Rachel, Luba, Brian, Brunnhilde, Blackpool girls, 3 different sizes of Garcon, Bud, Bonnie, Ted, Agatha, Mantis, Lillah, Tex, Pearl, Irmgard, Flick and Wick, and Rio. Brunnhilde was a bust bust made especially for optical stores - having deep high cheek bones for displaying glasses on. I am not sure exactly when the company closed but I believe it was in the early 90s. Lindsey B items are extremely collectible today and highly sought after. If anyone has any more info than this and would like to share it - please email me.

Lipchitz, Marcelle - born 1891, lived in France and exhibited there. Moved to USA in 1941.

Lipchytz or Lipszyc, Samual -
Russian artist worked 1918 - 1935, exhibited mainly at the Salon, Paris.

Lypchytz Jacques - born in Druskieniki in 1891, lived in France until 1941 when he fled the country and moved to the USA where he was very successful.

Lorenzl Josef - 1892-1950
Josef Lorenzl was an Austrian sculptor and ceramist and one of the most famous sculptors of the Art Deco period. Most of his figures were singular slim female nudes with long legs which conveyed elegance, usually in dancing poses. Some of his figures were used to accompany mirror glass or marble clocks, lamps and also produced as bookends. He also made many figural strikers (lighters) mainly in spelter wall masks and ceramic figures. He used various materials mainly, bronze, spelter, and bronze and ivory. Similar figures were often made in various sizes. He designed many ceramic busts, figurines and wall masks for Friedrich Goldscheider and Keramos. Lorenzl signed his pieces Lorenzl but also used abbreviations of his name, Lor, or Enzl and many pieces were unsigned. His work was very similar to that of Dakon and at one time it was believed that Lorenzl and Dakon were one and the same artist. Lorenzl worked at the bronze foundry in the Vienna Arsenal. Whilst there he made the acquaintance of Stephan Dakon who later became a fellow colleague at Goldscheider in Vienna. It was on Lorenzls recommendation that Dakon was employed by Goldscheider in 1924 as a freelance designer. Lorenzls work is now highly sought after by collectors world wide and his name is known for the quality of the pieces and the designs that he produced. His pieces now command very high prices.

Mackintosh, Charles Rennie 1868-1928
Scottish architect and designer who was one of the most influential figures in the development of Art Nouveau and the Modern movement. Much admired on the continent especially by the Viennese Secessionists. Formed the 'Glasgow Four', which included Herbert MacNair and the Macdonald sisters. Margaret later married Mac Nair and Mackintosh married Frances.

Majorelle, Louis 1859-1926
French cabinet maker influenced by Galle. As a member of the Nancy school he adopted Art Nouveau forms, creating an individual, elegant, naturalistic style. His decoration is based on sinuous natural forms, hand made with exotic or strongly grained wood often with Marquetry inlays and ormolu mounts.

Manship, Paul -
born 1885 in Minnesota, USA. Studied at Pennsylvania Academy and St Paul Institute. Studied in Rome 1909-1912 and won the Prix de Rome. Exhibited in the USA and France, winning many medals and awards.

Masson, Jules Edward -
French artist born Paris 1871. Received a medal of honour and several awards, mainly in the 1920s.

Maxim George (Geo)
There is no info on Geo Maxim, although I am very famaliar with his work as I have had so many pieces by him. I believe he was a French artist worked mainly during the 1920s and 30s in France, produced most of his pieces in spelter (white metal) with a few bronzes, terracottas and ceramic pieces. More of a middle market sculptor, he also produced a few earlier Nouveau statues. His designs which were mainly ladies or girls were used to produce figural lamps and clocks as well as groups and statues on their own. Most famous piece was the running lady with two greyhounds.

MAYER Nicolas -
Born in Paris in mid 19th century, studied under Cordier and exhibited genre and allegorical figures at the Salon des Artistes Francais, attaining an honourable mention in 1887 and becoming an Associate in 1904. His group titled 'The Dream' can be seen the Roanne Museum.

Menneville
French artist worked during the 1920s/30s famous for the production of mainly spelter and ivorene or full spelter statues of ladies. I have never seen a Menneville bronze it is however possible that items were produced but true to say most pieces were of spelter and ivorene, or full spelter statues of ladies. As there is no information available on Menneville (which is also the case with many deco artists) I can only pass on what knowledge I have acquired from having owned so many Menneville items over the years. It is my opinion that there is a connection with Menneville / Rochard / Roggia and De Viggo. I believe that Menneville worked on some pieces in conjunction with Rochard. It is possible that they may have shared the same workshop or indeed might have studied together. Perhaps Rochard produced the animals that were used by Menneville in his group studies, as Rochard is famous as an animalier artist. I have also had Menneville statues which are signed De Viggo or Roggia. These may have been pseudonyms used by Menneville, which was a common practice with many of the statuary artists during the deco years. If any one has any further info on Menneville I would be interested to hear it. It is possible that Menneville actually refers to a foundry in the town of Menneville in France and that Roggia, De Viggo and Rochard were in fact the artists.

Molins-Balleste
Enrique Molins-Balleste was born in Barcelona, a Spanish artist who later moved to Paris. It would appear that Molins and Balleste are one and the same artist and he would use either Molins or Balleste to sign his pieces, sometimes signing the BAL. Some same figures are signed Molins whilst the other is signed Balleste. Famous for his theatrical and genre groups and figural lighting. Also made many sculptures using wood as the medium.

Morante, Maurice - early 20th century sculptor.

Moreau, August - worked 1860 - 1910, prolific nouveau spelter and bronze sculptor.

Moreau, Francois Hippolyte Moreau, worked 19th century into the 20th century. Born France 1832, he studied under Jouffroy in Paris. Exhibited at the Salon from 1863, winning a bronze medal at the Exposition Universelle of 1900. He specialised in Genre groups and figures.

Morlon
Alexandre Morlon born 1878 in Macon France. He studied under Falguiere and Mercie and Exhibited at the Salon in 1900. He specialised in allegorical figures and is famous for the standing figure of Victory used for the Allied Victory medal (1918). He modelled pieces used for coinage, medals and war memorials. Examples of his work can be found in the Mint Museum, Paris and the Ghent museum.

Morris, William 1834-1896
Morris was one of the founders of the Arts & Crafts Movement and closely involved with the Pre-Raphaelite artists of the mid19th c. His ideal of integrating art, literature and graphic design inspired a generation of artists like Rossetti, Burne-Jones, Millais and Waterhouse to name but a few. Morris was an English poet, writer, designer, artist and socialist reformer. He rejected the opulence of the Victorian era and urged a return to medieval traditions of design, craftsmanship and community. He pioneered modern renderings of antique styles of type as well as the production of high quality home furnishings to last for generations. In 1861, he founded the firm of Morris, Marshall, Faulkner & Co. with Gabriel Rossetti, Burne-Jones, Madox Brown and Philip Webb and in January 1891 He founded the Kelmscott Press.

Muller Freres c1900-1933
A wonderful glass making firm mainly known for their cameo glasswares, run by the brothers, Henri and Desiree Muller. Based in Luneville, near Nancy and Croismare. The brothers initially worked with Emille Galle.

Namgreb - see Bergman

Noverdy, Jean - French art deco glass ware, worked at Muller Freres in Luneville and later set up his own production company in Dijon.

Odyv - The French company of Odyv produced mainly faience clocks in Vierzon, France, close to Limoges. During the twenties and thirties it produced almost one hundred different models of clocks, signed ODYV, with a very strong Art Deco theme. After the second world war, it was still producing approximately 35 models, intended especially for the Mediterranean markets. Most of these pieces are of plain colour and usually with richly raised gilding or silvering. The company was also well known for its production of stylised craquelier figures and vases.

Orbiols
Gustave Orbiols worked 1890-1910. Some of his pieces are viewable in the Berman Bronze books.

Oury, Oury-Cerf ­
born Valenciennes October 1889, winning many awards, the first received in 1921.

Paris, Roland -
born Vienna, 1894. One of the founders of the Bauhaus school along with Henry Van der Velde. Famous for his stylised comical pierrotte figures.

Perl, Karl - born in Liezon Austria on 3 March 1876. He studied under Hellmar, Zumbusch and Kundmann and worked as a sculptor of figures, busts bas-reliefs and medals and medalions in Vienna.

Peleschka, Lunard - worked mainly in bronze and ivory in Austria from 1900 - 1930's, and it is highly possible that this was a pseudonym used by Ferdinand Preiss.

PEYRE, Rapheal Charles -
Born 1872 in Paris, studied under Falguierem T. Barrau and Mercie. Exhibited statues and paintings at the Salon des Artistes Francais around the turn of the century, winning an honorable mention in 1894, a third class medal in 1902 and a travelling scolarship in 1903. Famous mainly for his beautiful portrayal of children subjects.

Philippe, Paul -
Polish born student of Larant and Larroux, his most famous sculpture was 'Awakening'. Widely exhibited at many of the Paris salons.

Picaud, Maurice (Pico) -
French architect and interior designer who created the dancing lady facade over the entrance to the Folies Bergeres building in Paris. The facade depicts the dancer Lila Nikolska, who posed for the sculpture.

Pillet, Charles Philippe Germain Aristide
(born in Paris, 1869-1960) was pupil to Chaplain and Chapu and received the Grand Prix de Rome in 1890. He exhibited regularly at the Salon of the Société des Artistes Francais. Famous for producing medals. Pillet exhibited at the Exposition Universelle 1900 in Paris where he was awarded a silver medal. He received a first-class medal in 1905 and the Legion of Honor in 1911. Pillet was awarded a medal of honor in 1923.

Pina Alfredo, 1883-1966 Italian artist worked mainly in bronze, semi abstract styling.

Piron, Eugene Desire, 1875 - 1928
French sculptor born in Dijon in 1875 and committed suicide in Aix-en-Provence in 1928. Exhibited at the Salons, won the Prix de Rome in 1903 and a second class medal in 1907. Studied with Barrias and Coutan. Produced mainly portraits and figures.

Poertzel, Prof. Otto -
born 1876 in Scheibe im Thüringer Wald in Germany. Studied at the Czech Academy for porcelain at Prof. R. Möller, before becoming a sculptor in Coburg for 8 years. Afterwards, he studied at the Art Academy in Munich under Prof. E. Kurz & Adolf von Hildebrandt. Participated in numerous international art exhibitions, e.g. St. Louis World's Fair (1904) & the International Art Exhibition in Brussels (1910). Worked 1910-1930 and produced many of the larger monuments and some of his earlier works can be found in the German Royal Courts, and a few were purchased by the King of Bulgaria. He specialised in female busts (during 1920s & 1930s Poertzel was making busts of the aristocracy in Europe). Died in 1963. Poertzel and Ferdinand Preiss shared a studio in Berlin and at one time it was thought that the two were the same person as their work is very similar, and often confused.

Ferdinand Preiss (1882 - 1943)
Johann Philipp Ferdinand Preiss was born in Erbach (Oderwald) in Germany on the 13th of February 1882. His father owned and ran the local Preiss Hotel, while his mother came from a traditional ivory carving family. When Ferdinand was fifteen years old his father died, the Hotel was sold, and the six children dispersed among relatives and friends. Ferdinand Preiss moved in with the family of Philipp Willmann (1846 - 1910), a master ivory carver and teacher with whom he went through a thorough apprenticeship, emerging as one of the finest ivory carvers of his generation, and he remained in Willmann's studio until Easter 1901. His movements over the next few years are unknown, but by 1905 he appears to have been working for Carl Haebler in Baden-Baden after a period in Milan; AT the Haebler works he met a number of young carvers from Erbach. One co-worker, Arthur Kassler himself a Berliner went into partnership with him and they moved to Berlin, where they opened a small workshop in which they worked as turners and carvers in ivory. The firm was called Preiss and Kassler. In 1907 Preiss married Margartehe Emma Clara Hilme. I 1910 the firm took on two new carvers. Louis Kuchler and Ludwig Walther and the firm's name was shortened to PK. The earliest compositional figure by Preiss is a stauette of Phryne carved from three different woods in his son's collection. His early designs were classically inspired Grecian figures certainly part of the tradition received from Willmann, but also part of the taste for copies from the Antique which were then very popular. Phryne reappeared in bronze and ivory with an onyx or marble base in the company of Aphrodite, Iphigenia, Pomona and others. Another early design was a figure of Carmen. These early figures had the bronze section of the figure cast at the Akt Ges Gladenbeck in Berlin. Robert Kionsek from the Gladdenbeck foundry joined PK and firm gradually expanded, having about half a dozen workers when war broke out in 1914. When the firm restarted in 1920 after the war, Preiss designed a wide variety of figures; exquisitely graceful ivory nudes, bronze and ivory bathers, dancers, couples children and historical figures. Preiss figures are the epitome of grace and elegance, the faces pretty, but with character; the costumes colorful but restrained. His series of Olympians have often been equated with the Nazi ideal by the ignorant. In fact these men and women playing tennis, throwing a javelin, holding an oar, playing golf are just health, outdoors types all date from the nineteen-twenties years before Hitler acquired any power. The Olympic Games that inspired most of these were in France where the Salons had separate and very active sections dealing with the Art of Sport. Preiss most loyal following was in England, and he showed his appreciation by carving a figure of the young Queen Elizabeth (now Elizabeth II). His skill at ivory carving is exemplified in his figure of St. George and the Dragon as well as in his ivory nudes. Preiss died in 1943 of a brain tumor. The PK firm did not survive.

Prischl Adolf - 1912-1970
Austrian Sculptor and ceramist. After training at the Viennese Kunstgewerbeschule under Robert Obsieger, he made models for Goldscheider and Keramos Wiener Kunstkeramik as a freelance sculptor. From 1943 to 1946 he was employed by Keramos. After passing his masters exams he establishes his own workshop in Vienna in1947.

Privat
Gilbert Privat born in Toulouse France in 1892. Sculpture of many Monuments in France. Exhibited figures at the Salon des Artistes since 1921. Won the Prix de Rome in 1921.

Rabier, Benjamin
French sculptor, worked during the deco years and famous for his comical animal designs. He created tableware including cocktail sets, knife rests, cruets, desk-sets and figural items mainly in spelter but also some ceramics.

Real Del Sarte, Maxime 1888 - 1954
Born Paris may 2nd 1888 and he died there in 1954. Won the Grand Prix Nationale in 1921, specialised in monuments and memorials in the 1920s. He won medals at the Salon des Artistes Francais in 1920 and 1927 and the Legion of Honneur in 1940. Also famous for a bust of Queen Victoria, and the monument of Joan of Arc at Rouen, and genre and lyrical groups like The Man and his Dream.

Renard, Marcel Claude
Born in Lyon, 5th August 1893. Son and pupil of Leopold Renard and also with Rost and Boucher. He exhibited at the Salon des Artists Francais, and the Salon des Artistes Decorateurs and won 2nd and 1st class medals in 1925 and 1934 respectively. He specialised mainly in bronze medals, plaques and bas-reliefs.

REZL, Bohumi
Born on 17/09/1899 in Czechoslovakia, arrived in Paris in 1926. He settled in Villenauxe (French department of Aube), and worked in the faïence factory until 1951. He created ceramic and terracotta figures and clocks often signed B. Rezl. Some of his 1930s items are on view in Museums in Brussels.

Riche
Lois Riche born in 1877 in Paris France. He studied under Gordet and Perrin, and exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Francais and the Salondis Independonts. He got a first class medal in 1924 and specialised in animal and genre groups. Valence Museum exhibits his bronze of a cat waylaying a butterfly.

Robj -
In 1908 Jean Born formed the company of Robj, its main interest was electrical items. In 1916 the company started to produce unusual ceramic items. Jean Born died in a car accident in 1922. and the management of the company was taken over by a shareholder - Lucien Willmetz. With the help of many sculptors and technicians Willmetz was the person responsible for the promotion of Robjs unusual and innovative form. The Robj pieces typified the 1920s 'style' and trend and so were immediately successful. In 1928 the company started production of there most successful line - the liquer decanter bottles known as 'Flacons Liquers'. Which were modelled as Guradsmen, Napolean, Monks, a black moma, teachers and ladies. The following year the company then produced similar tobacco pots. Several other ceramics companies were used to produce the Robj pieces and these included - Manufacture de Sèvres, Villeroy & Boch in Luxemburg, several factories in Limoges and a decoration workshop with a muffle furnace in Boulogne-sur-Seine. Today the company of Villeroy & Boch are reproducing the deco Robj pieces but the quality is not the same as the original pieces.

Rochard
Irenee Rochard was born on January 16th 1906 in Villefranche-sur-Saône (Rhône). French Sculptural artist worked during the Deco years, famous for his wonderful animalier sculptures, although he did make a few female statues too. Worked mainly in spelter or spelter and ivorene, but also made bronzes. He was a student in the Beaux-Arts and Arts-Deco Schools from 1924 to 1928 and member of the French Artists Society from 1938 onwards. He won numerous Prizes and Distinctions from the French Artists Society in the 1930's and '40s, including a bronze medal in 1941. Also some connection with Menneville. (See Menneville for more details). He died on march 29th 1984, in Paris.

Roggia - See Menneville

Rosenthal, Rena
There is not much information about Rena Rosenthal. Many very stylised bronzes are marked RR with the first R in reverse which is the symbol for her pieces. She was not in fact an artist but a shop retailer, who ran a stylish shop in the Waldorf Astoria Building in New York during the 1940s and 50s. She specialised in gift type designer items by Austrian artists like Hagenuer and had certain items created solely for he, putting her name to them. Some of the artists whose items she used were Bosse, and Baller and also Hagenauer made some items exclusively for her. Some of these pieces are marked with both RR and Hagenauer.

Rosenthal, Philip - 1855-1937,
Opened in Selb, Germany in 1869, by Philip Rosenthal, opened an art section in 1910 and employed over 80 designers, decorators and sculptors, including Gustaf Oppel, Karl Himmeltoss, Constantine Holzer-Defante, Ferdinand Liebermann, Franz Caasmann, Theo Karner, Philip Rosenthal and his son Philip (1916 - ). Won numerous medals and honours, notably the Gold Medal for its stunning quality porcelain at the Paris World Fair at the beginning of the 20th Century. Continued making exciting and quality ceramic items until being taken over in 1997 by Hutschenreuther AG, but is still producing quality ceramics under the name Hutschenreuther (Rosenthal Group), in Selb and Speichersdorf.

Roux, Constance, - 1865-1929

Rozet, Fanny
Born Paris, June 13th 1881. She studied under Marqueste, exhibiting at the Salon from 1904 and received a 3rd class medal in 1921.

Sabino - French glass company - makers of architectural lighting and objets d'art during the 1920s/30s, whos shop was at 17 Rue St Gilles, Paris.

Sandoz, Edward Marcel - Swiss born 1881-1971
Sandoz is one of the most famous animaliers of the Deco years along with Pompon, Kelety, Laurent, Moreau and Le Verrier. He also produced portraits, monuments, terracotta's and ceramic items. His animals frequently have a humorous and stylised quality and have been likened to the famous animals by Marcel Bouraine. Many items are very small and all work by Sandoz is now highly acclaimed and sought after.

Schneider, Charles
born in Chateau-Thierry, near Paris, on 23rd February 1881. At an early age he moved with his family to Nancy, the artistic centre of France, where he later studied at 'L'Ecole des Beaux Arts'. He was a talented student and he used his abilities to engrave medals using his own designs. After his military service, from 1901 to 1902, he specialised in the art of glass and stone sculpture.

His brother, Ernest Schneider, started working for Daum in 1903, where he was an important designer. Two years later Charles joined the factory as a self-employed designer while continuing his studies in Paris. In 1909, the brothers decided to start their own business and bought a small glass factory, specialising in electric light bulbs, in association with a friend Henri Wolf, at Epinay-sur-Seine. This factory was known as 'Schneider Freres et Wolf' and it operated until 1914, when the brothers joined the army; the factory appears to have been closed until they were demobbed in 1917. The factory re-opened in 1917 under the new name of 'Societé Anonym des Verreries Schneider'. At this time, public taste still favored the Art Nouveau style, and the factory produced mainly cameo glass with floral and animal designs, and vases with applied handles and bubbles. Apart from the introduction of art glass, half of the production was of commercial drinking glasses. In 1918, fire destroyed the studios at Gallé and a group of artists went to Schneider's to continue their production for Gallé. This period was of great importance to Charles Schneider because he acquired the technique of 'marqueterie de verre' from Gallé's artists. This technique, similar to marquetry in wood, is where the design is carved out of a vase and filled with coloured glass. By 1920, the factory was working at full capacity making mainly art glass. In 1921, Schneider started new trade marks for his cameo glass, signing it 'Le Verre Français' or 'Charder'. Sometimes a vase or lamp would bear both signatures. The idea was to popularise art glass and make it more accessible to the public. Le Verre Français was mainly sold at department stores like Gallery Lafayette, Le Printemps and Le Bon Marche. Pieces signed Schneider were sold by specialist art shops such as Delvaux, Rouard, La Vase Etrusque and Le Grand Depôt. Le Verre Français was made exclusively using the technique of acid etching, which gave good quality at a low price. The technique of wheel engraving through different layers of glass was used only for special pieces. In 1924, the Schneiders moved to a bigger factory with more modern furnaces, employing more people, and they changed the name again to Verrerie Schneider. After the 1925 exhibition, various new designs were created and the factory expanded to employ about 500 workers. Blank glass was also supplied to art shops (Delvaux etc.) to be decorated (enameled, painted etc.) by their own artists, and commissions were received from perfumery companies like Coty. At this time, the company was at its peak due to the good designs of the previous years, such as the new style created in 1920 using new shapes and contrasting colours by applying black foot and handles to brightly colored vases and coupes, thus giving them a dramatic effect. Always innovative, Schneider created a new technique of 'coloured powders' whereby the pulverised glass was mixed with metal oxides to obtain different colors and then spread on a flat surface. The glass blower would roll a gather of glass on the desired colour, which would melt and adhere to it; he would then blow it a little and repeat with different colours as many times as necessary to obtain the desired colour layers. It was then blown into a mould to give the final shape of vase, which would then be acid etched or wheel engraved, making the contrasting colours visible. Finally, the vase was polished in selected areas of the design to give a contrast of shiny and frosty surfaces. Typical designs were clear bubble or crackled glass between upper and lower bands of art deco motifs in overlay. Many of Schneider's art vases and lamps were exported to America. After the Wall Street crash of 1929 demand dwindled and the factory started to decline. During the 1930's production of art glass was down to a few pieces a day as they concentrated on making simple designs with less colours for the local market. In 1940, during the war, the factory was requisitioned by the German troops and used as a restaurant. After 1945, Charles Schneider and his son started working for a firm that specialised in enamels, called Soyer. In 1949, they opened a new factory called 'Schneider' but most of the designs were the creations of the son, using only crystal and clear glass. Up until Charles Schneider's death in 1953, only crystal was produced until the factory was closed in 1981. Charles Schneider signed his glass on four different way's:
* Schneider
* Charder ( Charles Schneider )
* Le Verre Francais
* A little piece of wool ( candy cane ) in the colors red, blue and white, these were the French colors of freedom and were only used for one year in 1918.

Sega
Again, no information. I believe this artist was French, or certianly worked in France, produced many figural items including lamps and clocks. Worked mainly in spelter and made many pieces using celluloid materials as covering for wooden bases and clock surrounds, with faux tortoishell and pearlised finishes. Used a lot of classical subjects ­ Pan, Pannette and Diane the Huntress.

Seifert, Victor Prof. 1870 - 1953
Seifert was born in Vienna in 1870 and worked in Berlin for most of his career, he participated in the ´Große Berliner Kunstausstellung´ or ´Münchener Glaspalast´exhibitions. His statues were produced by top German Foundries such as Ges. V Gladenbeck Sonh. He carried out several commissions and created several monuments for the city of Berlin. He is a well listed artist with many of his works shown in the Berman book of Bronzes. One of his most famous statues is Trinkende (Thirsty), a delicate female nude bather, but he is better know for his military statues. His work is considered on par with artist as Villanis and Barrias. Many of his statues can be found in the Schiffer book of Bronzes.

Stickley, Gustav 1847-1942
An American furniture designer. He opened a factory in New York producing furniture made by the traditional construction methods with an Arts and Crafts feel, notably his range of 'Craftsman furniture'. The Stickley name is associated with plain furniture in solid mainly American white oak, often described as 'mission style' because of its similarity to pieces found in 19thC American mission churches.

Tedd
I believe Tedd was a small French Atelier who mass produced the cheaper spelter animal figures, which they probably supplied to other workshops to be used in figural groups along with ladies by the other foundries. They also produced some figural lamps and clocks themselves.

Thénot, Maurice René (1893-1963)
Mainly famous for his medals and engravings. He was pupil to master engraver Patey. He won the gold medal at the Annual Competition for Young Workers in Paris in 1912. In 1920, he was accepted as apprentice at Arthus Bertrand, one of the leading manufacturers of medals in France. In 1921, he won the Grand Prize of Rome, studied at Villa Medici in Italy. In 1925, Thénot was awarded a silver medal at the International Exposition of Decorative Arts in Paris. From 1927-1935, he lived in Africa. In 1937 he was awarded a gold Medal at the International Exposition of Arts and Techniques in Paris. That same year he was selected for the position of Chief Engraver of the Casa de Moneda where he worked from 1937 to 1958.

Thomasch, Wilhelm
The company of Thomasch was formed in 1926. After training as a sculptor at Viennese schools of art he became works manager for Goldscheider and designed some very important figures. He left in 1926 and formed his own company.

Turin, Pierre (1891-1968)
French medalist. He studied at École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts in Paris, pupil of Vernon and Patey. Won the Premier Grand Prix de Rome de gravure en médailles in 1920. Médaille d'honneur at Salon des Artistes français.

Tutter, Karl 1883 - 1969
born in Germany, Karl Tutter was one of the most famous porcelain modellers of the 20th century, along with Carl Werner. He gained fame and aclaim internationally for his porcelain masterpieces and was probably the artist most responsible for the reputation of Hutschenreuther art figurines. He was a prolific artist for Hutschenreuther, and produced memorable pieces including Mephisto, Sonnenkind, Nach dem Bade and Finale, for over 40 years.

Uriano
No information available on Uriano, believed to be a French artist who worked in mainly spelter but also some bronzes during the Deco years. Made many large figural groups. Produced mainly lady figures, and some males, also producing some of the figures as clock sets and lamps.

Van Der Straeten, Georges (or Joris)
Born in 1857, Ghent, Belgium. Studied law by day and sculpture by night, but his love of the art won over and he became a professional sculpture. By 1878 he had become one of Brussels most prolific sculptors. He moved to Paris on advice of his friend the renown painter, Jan Van Beers and became well known for his figures of clowns, pierrots, ragamuffins, circus performers, buxom peasant girls and seductive Parisian ladies. He also gained recognition for his portrait busts of contemporary notables and beautiful women. He had an uncanny skill at capturing facial expressions which clearly portrayed sadness or joy. Some of his female figures are very similar to Emmanuelle Villanis pieces.

Van de Voorde, Georges-Abel Vandevoorde
Born Kortrijk (Belgium) 1878, died 1964 Anderlecht. Sculptor and medallist. He was a pupil of (among others) Constant Devreese and Julien Dillens. Helped Victor Rousseau and worked as his atelier for 7 years. He also taught and later became president of an art-academy. He won the Second Price Godecharle in 1905 and regularly showed his work at national and international exhibitions. He sculpted several larger monuments, including a war-memorial in Brussels, the sculpture of Pieter Coutereel in Louvain and the monument in white stone of Saint John Nepomucenus which was his last monumental design, and is located in his birthplace Kortrijk. He made portrait-busts of famous people which can be seen in parks all over Belgium, and he occasionally liked working around a particular theme, for instance elderly people. He worked in many mediums, including ivory, clay, stone, wood, spelter and bronze.

Villanis, Emmanuel, (1858 ­ 1914),
born in France to Italian parents, he was educated in Italy, but work and exhibited in France in the Salon de Paris and at the Paris Exposition Universelle where in 1889 he received an honourable mention. The realistic expression of the eyes of his subjects is due to his innovative technique of deep cut, he was strongly committed to the Art Nouveau movement, and together with Moreau, Bouval, Luidgi, Picault, Barrias, he produced some of the most remarkable studies of the powerful, sensual and yet subtle female form.
His sculptures where cast by well known foundries such as Vrai Bronze Garanti Paris, fabrication Française, Societe des Bronzes, Eugene Blot.

Villeneuve - Jacques Louis Robert - 1865 - 1933
Born in Basson, France, January 1865 and died Paris February 1933. Pupil of Injalbert and Thomas. He exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Francais. Won 3rd class medal (1897) / 2nd class medal (1899) / 1st class (1904). Also was awarded Legion d'honneur in 1906. Produced mainly genre groups, and classical, heroic and historical scenes, and busts of his contemporaries.

Voysey, Charles, A 1847-1941
Originally trained as an english architect, designing buildings and whole interiors including wallpapers, textiles and furniture strongly influenced by the English Arts and Crafts movement mostly to commission. His furniture was hand-made in native woods such as oak and beech with his own very distinctive style.

Wahliss, Ernst
Ernst Wahliss of Turn-Wien, Austria, was a highly regarded artist who designed Amphora art pottery and art nouveau figures and busts. He enjoyed much success beyond Europe. Wahliss produced between 1897 and 1906 some of the most beautiful female art nouveau busts and figures which are highly sought after today by collectors given their beauty and technical complexity. Wahliss was unique among the amphora manufacturers for having his own retail shops in London and Vienna.

Werner, Carl, 1895 - 1980,
A sculptor and one of the most important German porcelain modellers of the 20th century. He studied at the University of Art, Weimar and also in Prague and Cologne. In 1922 he started work as a sculptor for Hutschenreuthr AG, in 1960 he was appointed head of the department. He created many wonderful figurines including Die roten Schuhe, Bajadere and Schwerttänzer and also many animalier sculptures.

Wiener Werkstatte (Vienna Workshops)1903-1932
Series of Austrian craft workshops founded by Koloman Moser who was inspired by the attempts of the Vienna Secessionists to bring more abstract and purer forms to design. Associated designers included Josef Maria Olbrich and Koloman Moser. Their designs included silver, glass, metalwork, furniture and even buildings. Koloman Moser was originally trained as an architect (as is often the case), he was influenced by the Scottish born Charles Rennie Mackintosh and the Glasgow School.

Wright, Frank Lloyd 1867-1959
A prolific commercial and residential American architect and designer, father of the Prairie school of architecture. His works are well documented.

W.M.F. (Wuttembergische Metallwarenfabrik), 1880-present
This Austrian metalwork foundry was the most successful German art pewterer of the Art Nouveau period. Mass producing good quality, mainly decorative wares in high Nouveau style. The firm also produced items in glass.

Zach, Bruno -
Austrian sculptor worked from 1918 to 1935, mainly in bronze but also made a few chryselephantine pieces. He was based in Berlin and devoted most of talents to the exotic and erotic, although a few sporting figures were also produces. Some of his models were prostitutes, in whose company he frequently spent his evenings. Rumour has it that he proposed to one of them and was refused. Most of his subjects are female with a few dancing couples.

Zelikson, Serge
Born 1890 in Polotski, Russia. He won a scolarship to travel in 1912 and went to Paris where he studied at the Ecole des Beaux Arts under the guidance of Injalbert, Bouchard and Landowsky. He took French naturalisation in 1920. He specialised in genre figures and figural groups, busts and medals and bas-reliefs of contemporary personalities. He exhibited his works at Le Salon d'Automne, the Nationale and the Independants also at provincail gallerys around France. The Paris Municipal Museum displays his famous figure of a Volga Boatman.