Theo Vos, for Hutschenreuther

THEO VOS (Groningen, Netherlands, 1887 – Haarlem, 1948) for Hutschenreuther.
“The Dancer Gertrud Leistikow.” Art Deco. Designed in 1926, produced between 1932 and 1940.
Glazed white porcelain.
Hutschenreuther manufacturer’s mark, Selb-Bavaria, Abteilung für Kunst, on the base.
Reference bibliography: Ellen Mey, *Im Zeichen des Löwen. Porzellan aus Künstlerhand. Die Kunstabteilung Lorenz Hutschenreuther, Selb, 1918–1945*, Hohenberg an der Eger, 2009, p. 238 (model reproduced).
In good condition.
Measurements: 28 x 24 x 10 cm.

This sculpture is a notable example of the renewal of European artistic porcelain during the Art Deco period. Designed by Theo Vos in 1926 for the Hutschenreuther manufactory, it depicts Gertrud Leistikow, one of the most renowned figures in German Expressionist dance.

The dancer is captured in an energetic movement, with her body leaning forward and her arms extended in different directions. The stylized anatomy, curved lines, and ribbed folds of the dress convey a strong sense of movement and lightness, enhanced by the porcelain’s glossy white finish.

Theo Vos trained at the Minerva Academy in Groningen and furthered his studies in Brussels with Victor Rousseau. His work focused on the human figure, animal sculpture, and architectural decoration. He participated in exhibitions such as the one held at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam in 1924. For Hutschenreuther, he created ten designs, including three studies of dancers, which were presented at the Leipzig Fair beginning in 1925–1926.