My grandfather was Rene Paul Chambellan who designed and executed the wall and structure decorations and sculptures for the Keith Theater. He also executed the interior decorations at the Arcade in Cincinnati. Known for his designs, sculptures and medal work comprising of over 40 major buildings (including Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center in general) and over 50 major medals and awards, I was delighted to learn that you have photos of this theater. This project, until just now, was unkown to me and did not turn up in any of my research for the biography of his life that I am writing. I have emaied a message to you about receiving the photos you offered. I can also provide photos of the models and/or sketches for the Keith Theater project if I have any, which I can determine once I view the photos you have.
I am the grandson of Rene Chambellan and I just wanted to thank Geoffrey for mentioning his work. His contributions to the entire Rockefeller Center project were significant and I am blessed with many photographs of the original models and sketches as well as our family having several plaster casts of the onamentation located above the entrance doors to Radio City. His contributions to Rockefeller Center, as with most architectural sculptors is usually not recognized, hence my delight in Geoffrey’s comments. One suggestion for all of you, the next time you are in the theater look up! That marvelous ceiling is also Rene Chambellan’s work! Be well all, and thanks again!
My grandfather was Rene Paul Chambellan who designed and executed the wall and structure decorations and sculptures for the Keith Theater. He also executed the interior decorations at the Arcade in Cincinnati. Known for his designs, sculptures and medal work comprising of over 40 major buildings (including Radio City Music Hall and Rockefeller Center in general) and over 50 major medals and awards, I was delighted to learn that you have photos of this theater. This project, until just now, was unkown to me and did not turn up in any of my research for the biography of his life that I am writing. I have emaied a message to you about receiving the photos you offered. I can also provide photos of the models and/or sketches for the Keith Theater project if I have any, which I can determine once I view the photos you have.
I am the grandson of Rene Chambellan and I just wanted to thank Geoffrey for mentioning his work. His contributions to the entire Rockefeller Center project were significant and I am blessed with many photographs of the original models and sketches as well as our family having several plaster casts of the onamentation located above the entrance doors to Radio City. His contributions to Rockefeller Center, as with most architectural sculptors is usually not recognized, hence my delight in Geoffrey’s comments. One suggestion for all of you, the next time you are in the theater look up! That marvelous ceiling is also Rene Chambellan’s work! Be well all, and thanks again!