Demétre Chiparus, Rare Art Deco Terracotta Sculpture of Walking Elephants, France, circa 1920
An exquisite and rare terracotta sculpture by the celebrated Art Deco artist Demétre Chiparus (1888–1947), meticulously crafted in France circa 1920. 
This masterfully executed, important piece depicts a female elephant in mid-trumpet, followed by her calf, both rendered in a rich brown red patina that accentuates the sculptural depth and movement. The composition evokes a sense of vitality and grace, emblematic of Chiparus's ability to fuse naturalism with stylized elegance. 
The sculpture is mounted on a substantial base which bears the artist's incised signature, "D. H. Chiparus," and the mark "Editions Reveyrollis – Paris."
The surface treatment is particularly noteworthy — a tactile, hand-finished quality that enhances the work's exclusive character and visual presence. This stunning example of Chiparus's oeuvre is distinguished not only by its subject matter and scale but also by its sculptural sophistication. It offers a commanding presence and historical significance, making it a compelling acquisition for collectors of fine Art Deco sculpture.
An exceptional and terracotta sculpture by renowned Art Deco master Demétre Chiparus (1888–1947), crafted in France around 1920. This striking piece captures a dynamic procession of two walking elephants — a trumpeting female followed closely by her calf — rendered in a warm earth patina that enhances the depth and texture of the set. This outstanding sculptural oeuvre by Chiparus offers significant presence and historical value, making it a standout addition to any prominent Art Deco private collection.
Sculptural Sophistication: The composition is defined by its rhythmic balance and anatomical precision, with each figure modeled in high relief to evoke motion and maternal connection. The surface treatment is tactile and finished with details, enhancing the visual presence and exclusive character of the artwork.
Signed and Documented Provenance: Mounted on a substantial base, the sculpture bears the incised signature "D. H. Chiparus" alongside the mark "Editions Reveyrollis – Paris," confirming its origin. Works published by Reveyrollis are among the most sought-after in Chiparus's catalog, often reserved for his most ambitious creations.
Historical Importance: Terracotta works by Chiparus are exceedingly rare, especially those depicting animal subjects with such scale and sculptural complexity. This piece reflects the artist's departure from his famed chryselephantine figures to explore broader themes of nature and movement within the Art Deco idiom.
A masterwork of Art Deco sculpture, this rare terracotta composition by Demétre Chiparus (1888–1947)—crafted in France circa 1920—is an exceptional and historically significant example of the artist's mature oeuvre.