How do I clean an onyx base?

Dust the stone regularly with a soft, dry cloth to prevent dirt accumulation in the natural pores. Avoid using water or chemical cleaners that might seep into unsealed edges. Polish the polished surfaces gently with a dry microfiber cloth to maintain the natural lustre. Keep the stone away from moisture and direct heat sources.

What metals are used in these figures?

Makers utilised bronze, gilt bronze, and spelter for the sculptural elements mounted on the stone plinths. Spelter appears frequently as an economical zinc-based metal alloy. Surfaces often received patinated finishes, cold paint, or metallic gilding to simulate more costly materials. These finishes highlight the intricate garments and hair styling typical of the period.

Are these figures strictly Art Deco?

The designs belong to the Art Deco movement of the 1920s and 1930s, characterised by stylised geometry and dynamic movement. The postures of dancers and animals reflect the modern aesthetic of the interwar decades. While sharing a common design vocabulary, individual pieces range from naturalistic animal studies to highly stylised female figures. The combination of metal sculpture and heavy stone bases remains a unifying characteristic.

How is the figure fixed to the base?

Sculptures are typically attached to the stone plinth via a threaded rod or bolt passing through the base from underneath. This secures the heavy metal casting firmly to the stone support. Checking beneath the base usually reveals the fastening nut holding the two distinct materials together. The weight of the stone provides stability for the upright figure.