1920s Art Déco Odalisque Ceramic Sculpture ‘Aida’ Designed by Josef Lorenzl for Goldscheider Manufactory in Vienna, Austria

Art Déco odalisque ceramic sculpture ‘Aida’ designed by Josef Lorenzl for Goldscheider Manufactory in Vienna, Austria

By: Josef Lorenzl, Goldscheider Manufactory
Material: ceramic, paint, enamel
Technique: pressed, molded, painted, hand-painted, hand-crafted, glazed, enameled
Dimensions: 8.5 in x 5.5 in x 18 in
Date: early 20th century, circa 1925
Style: Art Déco, Art Nouveau
Place of origin: Austria

Inspired by Giuseppe Verdi’s opera ‘Aida’, Josef Lorenzl designed this homonymous Art Déco ceramic sculpture in Vienna circa 1925. The piece depicts an odalisque in flowing garments, her gaze directed sideways. Lorenzl’s attention to detail captures the intricate patterns adorning her attire, from the floral motifs on her headscarf to the chains embellishing her bodice. Standing on a black oval base, the sculpture emanates a sense of grace and elegance. Near the support point of the sculpture, the author’s signature can be found.

Lorenzl, renowned for his work at the Goldscheider Manufactory, exemplifies the Art Déco aesthetic with his skillful craftsmanship. Through “Aida,” he immortalizes the allure and mystique of the oriental odalisque, evoking the drama and romance of Verdi’s timeless opera.