Naar Rene Paul Chambellan 'Manhattan Goddess Dancing in the Winds

This auction shows a set of two high-quality, reduced-size artistic interpretations of the iconic façade relief that once adorned the Bonwit Teller building on Fifth Avenue in New York. The original artworks, named 'Manhattan Goddess Dancing in the Winds', were 4.5 meters tall and made of limestone. In 1929 these façade figures were designed by renowned American sculptor Rene Paul Chambellan (1893–1955), a key figure within the Art Deco style. The original reliefs, two stylized female figures with fluttering scarves, were located between the eighth and ninth floors of the building. However, the existence of the artworks was short-lived. On June 5, 1980, Donald J. Trump, then a real estate developer and now President of the United States, ordered the removal and demolition of the façade figures to make way for the construction of Trump Tower. The destruction provoked a storm of criticism and made the front page of The New York Times. What was once considered a testament to refined art disappeared from New York City's skyline forever. The offered objects in this auction have been designed and manufactured with great care by Atelier Laurier Design. Based on all available photos and historical sources, this highly detailed reconstruction has been realized. Each component is meticulously designed to capture the elegance of the original façade figures. Both objects are in excellent condition and will be carefully packed for shipment, including insurance against loss or damage during transport. Dimensions per piece: 46 x 30 x 3 cm Material: porcelain gypsum with terracotta pigments Weight per piece: 4 kg (8 kg total weight for the set)

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