Oriental Dancer by Affortunato Gory

ORIENTAL DANCER BY AFFORTUNATO GORY

Description : This chryselephantine sculpture by Affortunato Gory, robed in a richly jewelled and embroidered costume, wears a delicately carved diadem on her head. As she dances on her tiptoes, her voluminous skirt and outstretched stole appear to flow with the movement.  Gory is said to have been inspired by Oscar Wilde’s play, Salomé, first performed in 1906. Maud Allan, the famous dancer who played Salome, designed a costume that displays clear parallels to Gory’s sculpture.  The figure stands on an octagonal bronze base and is signed « A. Gory Paris ».

The italian sculptor Affortunato Gory

Affortunato Gory, an Italian sculptor active from 1895 to 1925, studied in Florence and then moved to Paris to pursue his art, changing his name from Fortunato Gori. He exhibited at the Salon des Artistes Français from 1902, showcasing works like a Bust of a Woman in bronze and marble until 1923. Gory’s success was attributed to his skillful combination of materials and sculptures featuring elegant female figures.

Material : White Carrara marble & bronze

Dimensions : 92,5 x 23 x 23 cm

Period : ca. 1915-1920