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SOM#089, Laszlo Ispanky, Spring Wind, Autumn Wind, 1974
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From the collection of John Birks
Numbers Issued: 1,374 Bronze, 175 Silver
FROM THE ARTIST
The ever-changing seasons are a constant fascination to me. They have myriad effects on every human being.
On the obverse I have created the delicacy of a young woman in the Spring Wind. Her hair is softly billowing and here diaphanous garb is caught in the same refreshing breeze. The flowers of Spring surround her like a garland.
For the reverse I chose to create the grace and beauty of a muscular young man bracing himself against the blustery changes of Autumn. The Fall leaves blow past him as he feels the brisk wind upon his body.
The cycle of the seasons symbolizes life itself, weathering continuing changes from birth through maturity.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Laszlo Ispanky was born in Budapest in 1919. He began his career at the age of 15 as an apprentice to a Master Sculptor, and in 1943 received a degree in sculpture from the Budapest Fine Arts Academy. As a Hungarian government-sponsored artist, he developed an excellent reputation in his native land through his many monuments, fountains and building sculptures.
When he arrived in the United States in 1956, his talent was recognized almost immediately, and he was awarded a Fellowship to the Cranbrook Academy of Art in Michigan. During the following years, he obtained his citizenship and became widely acclaimed in artistic circles. In 1961 Mr. Ipanky became Chief Designer for Cybis Porcelains.
In 1966 Mr. Ispanky opened his own studio and is now located in Pennington, New Jersey, where he creates both limited and non-limited edition porcelain art. In 1973 Ispanky was commissioned by the Texas Rangers to create in porcelain the Texas Ranger honoring the 150th Anniversary of the organization. The piece bears the official seal of the Rangers and the first piece was presented to former U.S. Treasury Secretary John Connally.
Although Mr. Ispanky is best known in America for his intricate work in porcelain, the artist is also proficient in wood, bronze, and precious metals. His works in these media may be found in many private collections.
Laszlo Ispanky and his wife live in their secluded home and studio in the Sourland Mountains in Hopewell, New Jersey.
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