Works by sculptor Marcel-Andre Bouraine, (France, 1886-1948)

Marcel-André Bouraine was a prominent French sculptor known for his Art Deco creations during the early to mid-20th century. Born on November 17, 1886, in Pontoise, France, his work played a significant role in the Art Deco movement, which was characterized by its sleek, geometric designs and a fascination with the intersection of art and industry.

During World War I, Bouraine was a prisoner of war and was taken to Switzerland. He later studied at École Supérieure des Beaux-Arts, Genève. During the 1920s and 1930s, Bouraine's work came to epitomize the Art Deco style. His sculptures often depicted graceful, elongated figures, emphasizing sleek lines and a sense of modernity.

Bouraine's work was part of the sculpture event in the art competition at the 1924 Summer Olympics.[3] In 1928, he designed statuettes in pâte de verre for glass manufacturer Gabriel Argy-Rousseau.[5] He exhibited more... two large sculptures at the Exposition Internationale des Arts et Techniques dans la Vie Moderne of 1937 in Paris.

He was particularly renowned for his female figures, which showcased the idealized beauty and elegance of the era. Bouraine's creations captured the essence of the Roaring Twenties and the sophistication of the Jazz Age.

One of his notable works is the sculpture "L'Inconnue des Buttes-Chaumont," which portrayed a slender, graceful dancer. This work exemplified his ability to infuse a sense of movement and vitality into his sculptures. Many of his sculptures also incorporated materials like bronze and ivory, showcasing his technical mastery. His work can be found in museum collections, including at the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery.

Unfortunately, the outbreak of World War II disrupted Bouraine's artistic career. He passed away in Paris in 1948, leaving behind a legacy of iconic Art Deco sculptures. less...