Le Gondolier á Venise Sculpture by Alexandre Kelety

Art Deco masterpiece titled “Venice” by Alexandre Kelety, crafted in France circa 1930 and executed in dinanderie (Belgian brass), a technique often involving intricately patterned and gilded metalwork typical of the period, It captures an evocative Venetian gondola scene: a standing gondolier skillfully propels the boat with his oar while a reclining female figure in a flowing gown elegantly stretches across the prow, embodying the era’s fascination with romance, movement, and modern luxury.
MAde in France.
Circa: 1928
Signed: KELETY, Etling-Paris

Alexandre Kelety (1874–1940) was a Hungarian-born sculptor celebrated for his dynamic and stylized figures, many of which were produced for leading Art Deco foundries like Etling in Paris, His works often integrate materials such as bronze, gilt, and dinanderie, with surfaces finished to highlight geometric patterns and shimmering metallic tones, conveying energy and sophistication.

The dinanderie technique in Art Deco refers to the hand-crafting of decorative objects using brass, copper, or bronze—often featuring geometric, stylized, and highly polished surfaces. Originating from brassware traditions in Dinant, Belgium, dinanderie involves hammering metal sheets into shape, then further embellishing with techniques like chasing, embossing, or engraving, sometimes incorporating oxidation for patina or contrasting finishes