The Ritual of Preparation: Ramon Parmenter’s “The Warm Up” (1987)

The Athlete’s Grace: Ramon Parmenter’s “The Warm Up” Bronze Masterpiece (#37/74)

While “Before The Curtain” captures the dancer’s final mental focus, Ramon Parmenter’s “The Warm Up” (1987) immortalizes the physical discipline and strength behind the beauty. This monumental 33-inch bronze depicts a ballerina at the barre, her body engaged in a deep, athletic stretch that showcases Parmenter’s world-class understanding of human anatomy.

The arched top mirror serves as a silent partner in the composition, reflecting the dancer’s form and allowing the collector to appreciate the intricate musculature of the pose from 360 degrees without moving the sculpture. Created in 1987, this piece belongs to Parmenter’s most influential era, shortly after his work as the official sculptor for the 1984 Olympic Scientific Congress.

The “Low 74” Heritage & Provenance

• Strict Scarcity: This work is part of a limited edition of only 74. Most later Parmenter editions were expanded to 300 or more, making this early “Double Digit” series significantly more desirable for investors.
• Seamless Documentation: This specific casting (#37/74) comes with an unbroken paper trail, including the original 1987 purchase record from Sierra Galleries for $5,500.
• Historical Validation: Included with the sculpture is the original 1980s price increase letter, proving that Parmenter’s market was already in a steep upward trajectory during the initial release of this series.

Technical Profile

• Artist: Ramon Parmenter (American, b. 1954)
• Title: The Warm Up
• Year: 1987 (Early Career Peak)
• Medium: Limited Edition Bronze on Integrated Base with Arched Mirror
• Edition: No. 37 of 74 (Hand-Signed and Numbered)
• Dimensions: 33” H x 28.5” W x 8” D
• Weight: Heavy-cast bronze (approx. 70 lbs)

Condition & Authenticity Statement

AmericalEclectic.com provides the following certified details for this work:

• Authenticity: Guaranteed original 1987 casting. Hand-signed, titled, and numbered on the base.
• Provenance: Includes the Original 1987 Invoice, the Original Certificate of Authenticity (COA), and the historical Price Increase Letter. This level of documentation is the gold standard for secondary market bronze acquisitions.
• Condition Report: The sculpture is in Excellent Vintage Condition.
  • The variegated patina is rich and well-preserved.
  • The signature arched mirror is clear, with no oxidation (desilvering) or scratches.
• Valuation: Based on current 2025 gallery trends for early Parmenter “Mirror Series” works, the Retail Value is established at $16,500.00 – $18,200.00.

Artists Bio