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PAIR of Rare French Shell & Plaster Sconces by Serge Roche & Maison Jansen, 1935

Creator: Serge Roche -Maison Jansen
Offered by: Thomas Gallery Ltd.

Description
A Pair of Rare and Original French Shell, Sea Life, Plaster and Patinated Gesso Sconces by Serge Roche for Maison Jansen, Paris, circa 1935. Roche's designs were showcased in elite Parisian interiors and high society homes. These poetic, bold works of art, by the innovative and famed French Surrealist and Neo-baroque artist and designer, Serge Roche convey the spirit of France in the 1930 period leading up to the World War II. The images are rooted in the bounty of sea and in the harmony of nature; yet, they are preparing to ward off a coming tragedy. The central figure graphically conveys the image of the ancient Greek mythological figure, 'Medusa', with her paralyzing eyes, ready to protect the French nation against the mounting danger and horrors of the coming war. Decorative Arts and Fine Arts merge in these powerful sculptures / wall lights to tell a story beautifully and symbolically. Dimensions: H 19.5 x W 21.5 x D 7”.

Historical notes: Roche's style and these works were a precursor and influence on Jean Cocteau's vision for his landmark French film, Beauty and the Beast. 1946. The film is known for blending surrealism, baroque and symbolism much like Roche's own sensibility. The beast's castle with its animated candelabras, sculpted arms holding torches and hallway of mirrors is deeply aligned with the vision Roche expressed a decade and more earlier. Roche's plaster furniture could have belonged on Cocteau's set.

Power Source: Hardwired
Voltage: 110-150v

More Information

Documentation:	Documented elsewhere (similar item)
Origin:	France
Period:	1920-1949
Materials:	Abalone, Gesso, Plaster, Shell, Hand-Crafted, Hand-Painted, Patinated.
Condition:	Good. Wear consistent with age and use.
Creation Date:	1935
Styles / Movements:	Modern, Mid Century
Incollect Reference #:	810851

Dimensions

W.	20.5 in;	H.	19.5 in;	D.	7 in;
W.	52.07 cm;	H.	49.53 cm;	D.	17.78 cm;

Message from Seller:

T. Thomas Gargiulo came from a dual background as a Ph.D. in Psychology with extensive training in Art History and Anthropology to form Thomas Gallery in downtown Manhattan in 1997 to balance intellectual with design pursuits. Since its inception the gallery has seen decorative arts as a vibrant representation of human culture of each age and as a portal to understanding it. P: 917.434.4032 E: thomasgalleryltd@gmail.com