A bronze nude figure spotted in a Leicestershire bedroom could sell for thousands of pounds at auction – much to the surprise of its owner.
The 1930s Art Deco sculpture was identified as valuable by Hansons Auctioneers’ valuer Ian Hall during a routine home visit. He was taken aback to see the work of art by renowned Austrian sculpture Josef Lorenzl perched on a dressing table.
He said: “It’s a fantastic find by a sculptor whose work is in hot demand with collectors. It turned out to be a wedding present given to our client’s father years ago. I’m so pleased it’s stayed in the family. When I told the seller it could make £2,000 at auction they were amazed.
“Though antiques, by definition, are at least 100 years old there is strong demand for 20th century works of art like this. The beautiful 12inch figure captures the fun and frivolity of life between the First and Second World Wars. I think it will spark worldwide interest at auction.
“It’s importance and value is down to Lorenzl (1892-1950). He was – and is – a highly regarded Austrian sculptor known for his bronze sculptures of dancers. He was interested in the human form. His work captures the grace and fluidity of dancers in motion and his attention to detail is superb. The figure is set on a green exotic onyx base which adds to its glamour and sophistication. Lorenzl’s work was influenced by the Art Deco movement and is characterised by luxury and elegance.
“It’s a joy to uncover finds like this during routine home visits. Many people have unidentified treasure lying around at home. Old wedding or anniversary presents from years ago, perhaps inherited, can often bring rich returns. The auction market moves with the times and 20th century objects that may be languishing in cupboards or cabinets could be highly desirable.
“Hansons offers a free home visit service across the UK we’re always happy to look through drawers, go into cabinets and hunt out items people imagine have little or no value.”
Auction: The Josef Lorenzl bronze figure will be offered in the March 7 Decorative Arts and 20th Century Design Auction. Entries invited until February 15. Email Barry Jones: [email protected]
Home visits/valuations: For advice on Hansons’ free home visit service to inspect your silver, jewellery, watches, coins, antiques and furnishings, please call 01283 733988, email [email protected] or WhatsApp 07725 514855.
Free antique valuation events: Quorn Grange Hotel, 88 Wood Lane, Quorn, Leicestershire, LE12 8DB, January 18, February 19 and March 18, 11am-1pm. For further dates and venues visit www.hansonsauctioneers.co.uk
