Art Deco Egyptian Revival gilt perfume burner sculpture Sphynx 1920's Antique (4472)

Antique, Art Deco, Egyptian Revival perfume burner. Gilt metal. Circa 1920's.

 

13-1/2 inches (34.3 cm) long.

 

Modelled as a recumbent Egyptian sphynx or servant. Naked but for her rich jewellery, a necklace and belt crossing her back and buttocks. Small skirt in front. Outstretched arms hold a duck-shaped vessel, which would hold the perfume or incense, to be burned.  Removable lid.

The discovery by Howard Carter of Tutenkhamun's tomb in the 1920's, re-awoke Egyptomania - the total fascination by Europe, America and Britain of anything related to Ancient Egypt, especially the great treasures then found. Artistic license allowed sculptures to make figures like this - not a direct copy, but a romanticised version of Classic Egyptian figures and symbols. This figure combines the images of the late King and others of the period.  

Wonderful detail - from the finest modelling of the toes to the pattern of her necklace and stylised Egyptian style hair-do. Metal is heavy. 

No visible maker's marks.

 

Good, used condition. Original patina with negligible wear commensurate with age.