Soviet Copper Repousse Wall Plaques Set of 3 Odessa Opera Theater USSR

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Soviet Copper Repousse Wall Plaques Set of 3 Odessa Opera Theater USSR:
$399.99

Rare complete set of three Soviet-era repoussé copper wall plaques depicting the famous sculptural groups of the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater, one of the most celebrated architectural landmarks of Ukraine and the former USSR.

Produced in Odessa during the 1970s, these decorative plaques reproduce the sculptural compositions created by Austrian sculptor Theodor Friedl for the facade of the Odessa Opera House.

The set includes:

• Melpomene – the Greek muse of tragedy, shown in a chariot drawn by four panthers while holding a torch symbolizing the uplifting power of art.

• Hippolytus – a dramatic scene based on the ancient Greek tragedy by Euripides.

• The Birds – a composition inspired by Aristophanes’ famous comedy of the same name.

According to the original Soviet annotation accompanying the plaques, the sculptural groups symbolize the essence of theatrical art through tragedy and comedy, reflecting the experiences of human life.

Original annotation (translated from Russian):

“The beautiful building of the Odessa Opera and Ballet Theater is renowned throughout the world. The repoussé panel depicts one of the three sculptural groups of the theater created by sculptor Theodor Friedl.

Melpomene, one of the nine ancient Greek muses, crowns the theater. She is the patroness of the arts and the muse of tragedy. Holding a burning torch and driving a chariot drawn by four panthers, she symbolizes the ennobling influence of art upon humanity.

The sculptural group ‘Hippolytus’ illustrates a scene from Euripides’ tragedy written in 428 BC.

The sculptural group ‘The Birds’ illustrates a scene from Aristophanes’ celebrated comedy.

Together these sculptural groups proclaim the idea that theatrical art reflects both tragedy and comedy, which are inseparable parts of human life.”

Material: Copper repoussé (hammered copper relief)

Origin: Odessa, Ukrainian SSR, Soviet Union

Period: 1970s

Dimensions:

• Melpomene: 45 × 37 cm (17.7 × 14.6 in)

• Hippolytus: 50 × 37 cm (19.7 × 14.6 in)

• The Birds: 50 × 37 cm (19.7 × 14.6 in)

Condition:

Good vintage condition. Original patina and age-related wear consistent with decades of display and storage. Please review all photographs carefully.

A rare complete set combining Soviet decorative art, classical mythology, theater history, and Odessa cultural heritage. Ideal for collectors of USSR memorabilia, copper art, theatrical décor, and Eastern European antiques.

Complete Set 3 Soviet Copper Repousse Plaques Odessa Opera Theater 1970s