1930s Art Deco Bronze Sculpture "Danse Paienne" By Derenne (1886-1948) - 18½"

This striking bronze sculpture, titled "Danse Paienne" by Derenne, epitomizes the Art Deco elegance of the 1930s. The piece features a graceful nude dancer poised dynamically on one leg, holding discs in each hand. With its streamlined and elongated lines, the sculpture exudes a joyful energy that resonates with its title, capturing the spirit of the Art Deco movement.

Marcel-André Bouraine, known professionally as Derenne, was a French sculptor born in 1886 in Pontoise, Île-de-France, France, and passed away in 1948. He was a prominent figure in the Art Deco movement, renowned for his elegant sculptures of dancers and mythological figures. Bouraine studied under the sculptor Alexandre Falguière and briefly worked in the studio of Auguste Rodin. During World War I, he was captured and interned in Switzerland, where he created several monuments, including one for the city of Lausanne. Post-war, he exhibited at various Parisian salons, such as the Salon des Tuileries and the Salon d'Automne. Collaborating with contemporaries like Max Le Verrier and Pierre Le Faguays, Bouraine produced works in bronze, glass, and ceramics. He often used pseudonyms like Derenne and Briand, the latter being his mother's maiden name, especially for pieces cast in materials other than bronze by the Le Verrier foundry. Notable works include "Danseuse aux disques" and "Penthésilée," reflecting his fascination with the female form and classical themes. Bouraine's sculptures remain celebrated examples of Art Deco elegance and craftsmanship.

The sculpture is finished with a green patina, enhancing its visual appeal and reflecting the period's preference for bold yet refined aesthetics. The base, made of beautifully painted faux marble metal, subtly complements the figure and adds an artistic touch.