Hindu Dancer
Demetre H. Chiparus
,Ivory and polychrome bronze, silver and gold plated. Onyx and marble base, 56.5 × 69.4cm.
[Not currently on display]
In Danseuse Hindou (Hindu Dancer), the dancer’s pose combines a stretching movement of the body with a contortion that lead to an effective impact. The figure’s left arm folded upon her head and her right arm resting on the floor provide its balance. However, beyond the figure’s pose, the treatment of the costume that almost completely covers her should be pointed out, where only her ivory hands, neck and face can be seen. She is dressed in a leotard and long skirt that is held in place by a wide, richly elaborated metal cummerbund that opens to either side, falling in front and behind in drapery that emphasize her pose. The skirt and leotard are textured in a pattern that evokes scales, a showcase for exceptional engraving work.