Demetre Chiparus Bronze, But Is It?

Discussion in 'Metalware' started by wlwhittier, May 28, 2026 at 4:44 PM.

  1. wlwhittier

    wlwhittier Well-Known Member

    She's ~11 3/4" high, ~9 1/4" wide; weight is 3lbs 4oz. The plinth is a dark gray stone with muted lighter flecks, lathe-turned an' polished; the base has a thin felt-like disk covering an attachment hole ~2 1/4" diameter; I'm loath to peel it back to look within.

    I have seen just today several apparently identical works on eBay. They have Chiparus in their listing title, but have pics showing "Colinet" or "C. JR. Colinet" (Clair Jeanne Robertine Colinet) signatures; many state that they are 'Brand New'! A few others say 'Chiparus style' or 'after Chiparus'. None have the circular 3/8" tag that reads European Bronze Foundry...I think; the last word is too fuzzy for my eyes to resolve. On other sites at least one similar is signed D.H. Chiparus (Haralamb). I have looked for Chiparus' true title for this sculpture, without success...my research skills are a bit weak.

    I have no illusions about this being an original; but surely would like to know whether it is an authorized copy, an' if so when an' where made. I've had it 20 years or so...the fellow who sold it said it was spelter, an' suggested it was quite contemporary. I gave a pittance for it; something like $20. The tassel in her right hand seems to have been somewhat bent inwards, but there are no marring or other indicators of the severe bump that would have taken, an' there are no cracks or other evidence of damage anywhere adjacent. I'll be very grateful for all your comments, suggestions an' references about this lady dancer...Thanks for lookin'!

    P1460334.jpeg P1460335.jpeg P1460336.jpeg P1460337.jpeg P1460341.jpeg P1460338.jpeg P1460339.jpeg P1460340.jpeg
     
  2. bosko69

    bosko69 Well-Known Member

    Absolutely lovely piece Whit-I would've fractured my arm yanking a twenty out of my pocket.
    PS-How large is your vault again ?
     
  3. johnnycb09

    johnnycb09 Well-Known Member

    To me that looks like a repro as well. No offense but a rather crude one.
     
    bobsyouruncle likes this.

Share This Page