About the artist
Joe Descomps-Cormier/ J D Guirande (1869 - 1950) was a talented and versatile French sculptor, born in Clermont-Ferrand. He received his artistic education under the guidance of the renowned sculptor and goldsmith, Louis-Auguste Hiolin.
During his career, he exhibited regularly at the prestigious Salon of the Société des Artistes Français, showcasing his exceptional skills and creative flair. In the Art Nouveau style, he crafted a wide range of exquisite objects, including jewellery and sculptures in materials like bronze, stone, and ceramics.
As the 1920s dawned, Descomps-Cormier shifted his focus to small-scale sculptures, particularly in the Art Deco style. Notably, he adopted the names Descomps-Cormier and Cormier after World War I, adding to the complexity of his artistic identity. The mastery of Descomps-Cormier's work earned him recognition and acclaim, and his sculptures were featured in the sculpture event at the 1924 Summer Olympics.
His artistic legacy is marked by his specialisation in figural statues, with a particular emphasis on portraying elegant ladies, capturing the essence of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. In addition to his accolades and medals from various exhibitions, he also participated in other notable art events such as the Salon d'Automne and the Tuileries, solidifying his position as an esteemed sculptor of his time.
