Girl with Tambourine, by Paul Philippe. Art Deco Chryselephantine. C. 1925.

Girl with Tambourine, by Paul Philippe. Art Deco Chryselephantine. Circa 1925.

This figure titled "Girl with Tambourine", also known as "Dancer with Tambourine", is one of the most iconic and sought-after sculptures by renowned French artist Paul Philippe, created circa 1925–1930. It is an exquisite Art Deco piece made using the chryselephantine technique, which combines patinated bronze with carved ivory to achieve a distinctive visual and tactile effect. The figure was produced for the prestigious firm Rosenthal und Maeder (R.u.M.), as indicated by the signature inscribed on the base: “Philippe R.u.M.”

The sculpture depicts a slender female figure, slightly turned, with a posture that conveys motion and elegance. She holds a tambourine aloft, framing her serene and refined face. Her facial expression, marked by classical delicacy, and the finely sculpted hair evoke the idealized beauty of the interwar period. Her fitted outfit with a draped belt and cropped jacket completes the ensemble with a modern and sophisticated air, characteristic of the Art Deco movement.

The bronze features a dark patina with golden and coppery highlights, contrasting beautifully with the ivory smoothness of the face and hands. While there are some visible signs of patina wear, these only enhance the authenticity and story of the piece. The circular base is made of veined black marble, original to the sculpture, and adds stability, weight, and elegance, perfectly harmonizing with the overall design.

This is a 100% original period piece, not a later reproduction, and belongs to the elite group of Art Deco figures that have achieved high investment status due to their rarity, artistic quality, and consistent demand among international collectors. This sculpture is not only a jewel of artistic craftsmanship but also a testament to the refinement of a golden era in European decorative sculpture.

A highly decorative piece with commanding presence, it would lend distinction to any space in the home or a gallery setting. Given its rarity and recognizable signature, it is also perfect for enhancing a serious collection of Art Deco or antique sculpture. Don’t miss the chance to acquire a rare and famous museum-quality sculpture.

Dimensions: 35 x 10.7 cm (13.78 x 4.21 in).

History of Paul Philippe

Paul Philippe (France, 1870 – 1930) was one of the most prominent sculptors of the Art Deco period. Trained at the École des Beaux-Arts in Paris under the guidance of Antonin Larroux, Philippe’s work is known for its exquisite sensitivity in representing the female form. He masterfully blended classical techniques with the decorative innovations of the Art Nouveau movement and later the Art Deco style. He was widely recognized for his command of the chryselephantine technique, which fused patinated bronze with carved ivory to achieve subtle, refined, and naturalistic expression.

His sculptures were produced for prestigious houses such as Rosenthal & Maeder (R.u.M.) and, later, Preiss and Kassler (P.K.), and his work became synonymous with elegance and sophistication during the 1920s and 1930s. The name Paul Philippe remains highly coveted in the art market, and his original works are prized by private collectors and museums specializing in decorative arts. Many of his sculptures are inspired by dancers and women in playful or meditative poses, giving his work an ethereal and timeless quality. Today, pieces signed by Philippe are part of prominent international collections and continue to appreciate in value at specialized fairs and auctions.