Art Deco Italian Terracotta Sculpture by Ugo Cipriani

Lot description

Terracotta Figurative Sculpture of a Sailor, Ugo Cipriani. A ceramic sculpture depicting a strong, nearly-nude man in a dynamic pose. It skillfully blends naturalistic modeling with a strong, geometric composition. Signed by the artist Ugo Cipriani (Italian, 1887-1960) at the base. Dimensions are 20.75 in h x 24 in w x 7.5 in d. Condition is good with some wear to surface. Please call or email for a detailed condition report. After studying at the Florence Academy of Fine Arts, Ugo Cipriani (Italian, 1887-1960) worked in marble, terracotta, alabaster, and bronze in the spirit of the Art Deco movement. After escaping Mussolini's Fascist regime, he lived as a political refugee in Paris, where he continued to create art until his death. We are delighted to feature this selection of the property from the collection of Paul Gunther, including pieces by Mitch Epstein, John Patrick Dugdale, Ugo Cipriani and Mies van der Rohe. Paul Gunther (1956–2022) was a tireless champion of New York City's public realm, recognizing that its vitality was rooted in the diverse perspectives of artists, architects, and everyday citizens alike. Throughout his career, he held leadership roles at New York–based nonprofit arts organizations including the Gracie Mansion Conservancy, the Institute of Classical Architecture and Art, the New-York Historical Society, and the Municipal Art Society. These platforms allowed him to pursue wide-ranging interests—from safeguarding neglected neoclassical monuments to ensuring that the redevelopment of Times Square preserved its incandescent signage. His lifelong commitment to innovation and preservation is his enduring legacy, visible in the vitality of New York's shared urban spaces. That same ecumenical and open-minded approach to the arts shaped his personal collecting. Paul brought to his home the same discerning yet inclusive eye he brought to his professional work. His 10th Street apartment was filled with an eclectic array of art and design—objects spanning countries, styles, and eras. Many were acquired during travels across Europe, Asia, and South America; others were treasured gifts from friends and colleagues such as Henry Geldzahler, former Commissioner of Cultural Affairs for New York City and curator. Together, these works reflect the aesthetic breadth and curiosity that defined him. The sale of works from the Collection of Paul Gunther offers the opportunity not only to acquire part of his legacy but also to sustain the vision that animated his life. Proceeds will benefit the Paul Gunther Fund for Inclusive Public Space, administered by The Architectural League of New York. Established in his honor, the Fund will support the annual Paul Gunther Prize for Inclusive Public Space, a $20,000 award given over ten years to support individuals or teams undertaking innovative projects that create, enhance, and preserve inclusive public space in New York City. Inclusive public space—defined as space freely accessible to all, fostering belonging among people of different ages, genders, races, religions, or abilities—is increasingly at risk and urgently in need of investment, in New York City and across the United States. The Fund ensures that promising designers and scholars will have the resources to advance impactful, actionable proposals that strengthen and expand the public realm Paul so passionately defended.