By Karl Hagenauer, Franz Hagenauer
Located in St. Louis, MO
Female depictions played a crucial role in the oeuvre of both Hagenauer brothers from the very beginning of their careers. Throughout the years, Karl and Franz Hagenauer created an incredible variety of sculptures centered around the fluid beauty of the female form—ranging from athletic poses to sophisticated character depictions. Expressive modern dance served as an essential source of inspiration for the workshop, yielding iconic modernist designs including their celebrated tribute to Josephine Baker.
This patinated brass figure captures a snapshot of dynamic, expressive dance. Supported entirely by one long, elegant standing leg, the form conveys effortless lightness as if floating mid-performance. Her head is turned slightly downwards over the shoulder in semi-profile, radiating quiet tranquility against her energetic pose. Reduced overall and yet rich in subtle detail, the sculpture features clearly discernible elements—including delicate eyelids, fingers, and an indented navel. Mounted on its original turned, dark-stained wooden base bearing authentic stamped marks.
Dimensions: Overall Size: 11 1/8" H × 7 1/16" W × 2 7/8" D
Maker: Werkstätte Hagenauer Wien
Designers: Attributed to Karl Hagenauer (Austrian, 1898–1956) / Franz Hagenauer (1906–1986)
Period: Circa 1930s–1950s
Style: Austrian Art Deco / Wiener Werkstätte School / Modernist Expressive Dance
Materials: Patinated Cast & Hand-Finished Brass, Turned Hardwood Base
Markings: Underside of wooden base stamped: HANDMADE, HAGENAUER WIEN, wHw circular monogram stamp, and MADE IN VIENNA AUSTRIA
Excellent vintage condition overall. The brass figure retains a deep, original dark patinated finish displaying minor, age-appropriate wear and light patina consistent with gentle handling. The turned wooden base is solid with tight hardware; all stamped maker marks on the underside remain crisp and clearly legible.
Period: 1930–1939 / 1950–1959
Styles: Art Deco, Modernist, Wiener Werkstätte, Mid-Century Modern
Place of Origin: Austria (Vienna / Wien)
Materials: Patinated Brass, Wood
Keywords: Werkstatte Hagenauer Wien, Karl Hagenauer dancer, Franz Hagenauer sculpture, wHw monogram mark, Austrian Art Deco bronze figure, patinated brass dancer sculpture...
Category
1930s Austrian Art Deco Vintage Franz Hagenauer Furniture