Lot 143: Celine Lepage “Moroccan Woman” Ceramic Sculpture

Celine Lepage (French, 1882-1928) Art Deco era glazed ceramic sculpture, “Woman from Marrakech,” or “Evolution”, depicting a standing Moroccan woman covered in flowing white robes. Only a portion of her face and feet are exposed, and these are portrayed with a dark matte glaze that contrasts with the white crackle glaze of her robes. Signed on side of base “Celine Lepage” and inscribed “Evolution” to underside. 30 1/2 in. H (78 cm) including the base, which measures 1 1/2 in. H x 8 in. sq. Note: this sculpture is based on one of Lepage’s most popular sculptures, “The Veiled Woman of Marrakech” (circa 1922). The French-born artist was inspired to create sculptures influenced by her experiences in Morocco and Tunisia while her husband, a young officer, was stationed there. Her work was exhibited at the 1919 Salon d’Automne and in 1923 at the Salon des Tuileries, and was so successful that she was asked to participate in the design of the Pomone pavilion at the 1925 Paris Exposition des Arts Decoratifs. Reproductions of her sculpture, including this one, were issued in various sizes in bronze and ceramic both before and after her burgeoning career was cut short by her death at the age of 46.

PROVENANCE: The collection of Dr. Lewis Pendleton Armistead, Nashville.

CONDITION: Overall very good condition. Some scattered slight wear including to subject’s toes. A couple of tiny dark glaze pops to base.