Description

This enchanting wax bust, created in Paris during the 1920s by La Cire d’Art, radiates the joyful spirit of the Jazz Age. Her short, softly waved hair, bright blue glass eyes, and smiling red lips perfectly capture the fashionable “modern woman” of the Roaring Twenties. With her lifelike complexion, delicate blush, and carefully modeled features, she embodies the glamour and optimism of the decade.

Stamped on the base “La Cire d’Art, Paris”, along with her catalog number, she belongs to the celebrated tradition of French wax mannequins, which were admired for their artistry and realism. Dressed with a touch of lace, this bust once served as an elegant display figure—perhaps in a Parisian boutique window or department store—attracting attention to hats, scarves, or fine accessories.

History

The 1920s marked a radical transformation in fashion and society. After World War I, women embraced shorter hairstyles, bold cosmetics, and expressive clothing, celebrating newfound independence and freedom. Wax mannequins like this one were not mere shop figures; they were cultural symbols of modern beauty and style.

French makers such as Pierre Imans and La Cire d’Art, Paris perfected the art of lifelike mannequins. Their creations bridged the worlds of sculpture, theater, and fashion—bringing a sense of personality and vibrancy to shop windows. This smiling young lady reflects the “garçonne” look, the liberated flapper who defied convention and embodied the energy of the new decade.

Today, very few wax busts from this period survive in such fine condition. This piece is not only a striking work of craftsmanship but also a window into the elegance and optimism of 1920s Paris.

MUS-021