Pair Antique 1920s Egyptian Revival Spelter Nefertiti Busts Wooden Base 22cm

An attractive and characterful pair of 1920s Egyptian Revival spelter busts of Queen Nefertiti, each mounted on a wooden plinth base. A textbook expression of the wave of Egyptomania that swept through European and American decorative arts following Howard Carter's discovery of the tomb of Tutankhamun in November 1922.

The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb sparked a worldwide cultural phenomenon, and Egyptian motifs rapidly became central to the Art Deco design language of the 1920s and 1930s. Architects, furniture makers, jewellers, fashion houses and decorative arts manufacturers alike turned to ancient Egyptian iconography for inspiration. Spelter (zinc-based pot metal) was the preferred material for affordable Egyptian Revival decorative pieces, allowing factories in France, Germany and the USA to produce well-cast figures and busts in commercial quantities. The bust of Queen Nefertiti - drawing on the celebrated polychrome bust discovered at Amarna in 1912 and exhibited in Berlin from 1924 - became one of the most popular subjects.

Each bust stands 22cm in height overall on its wooden plinth, the figure of Queen Nefertiti modelled with the distinctive blue crown and a serene profile. The casting is sharp and the patina age-mellowed. Condition is good for the period - see photographs for full detail.

A handsome pair for a period interior, Art Deco enthusiast or collector of Egyptomania. UK tracked delivery available; collection from Nottingham welcome.