Streamline / Moderne - after Maurice Lambert (1901-1964) - Sculpture, 'Speed and progress' - 25 cm - Bronze mounted on a wood pannel - 1934

An exceptional and striking original Art Deco bronze plaque, highly evocative of the era's fascination with speed, progress, and modern transport. This high-relief piece was created by the artist J. Verbeemen around 1934.

The composition of a winged figure riding a Pegasus alongside a highly streamlined vehicle (resembling a high-speed train or ocean liner) perfectly embodies the 'Streamline Moderne' style of the 1930s. This theme is famously associated with works created for the great liners of the period, such as the iconic "Speed and Progress" panel designed by Maurice Lambert for the RMS Queen Mary (1935-1936).

Verbeemen's piece stands as a fine, scaled-down interpretation of this highly popular and celebrated Art Deco motif. It is a genuine, signed work from his known collection of 'futuristic bronze scenes'. The classical allegory of speed and the modern machine is rendered in a dramatic, sweeping manner characteristic of top Art Deco designers.

The bronze is clearly signed ‘J. VERBEEMEN’ in the lower section of the relief. It is presented on its original mounting board, ready for wall display.

Title/Subject: Allegory of Speed and Progress (inspired by the major Art Deco transport motifs of the era).
Period: c. 1934.
Style: Art Deco / Streamline Moderne.
Material: Bronze high relief on original mounting board.
Signature: Signed 'J. VERBEEMEN'.

Condition: Good antique condition with a beautiful, rich patina consistent with age. Minor wear to the original backboard (as expected for its age).

A highly desirable piece for collectors of 1930s decorative arts, transportation history, and Art Deco sculpture, offering a direct link to one of the most celebrated design motifs of the age.