Franz Xaver Bergmann, Moorish Warrior, Vienna Bronze Sculpture, Ca. 1900

This wonderful life-like sculpture depicts a Moorish warrior in a historical costume, at the moment of throwing a javelin. It is created in polychrome cold-painted bronze, and rendered in the best traditions of the world-famous Viennese foundry of Franz Xavier Bergmann.

D: 7-7/8" x W: 5-7/8" x H: 10-7/8. Marked on the inner part of the base bottom with a "B" in an urn-shaped cartouche (for "Bergmann"), model number 2897, and "GESHUTZED" (German: PROTECTED).

The quality of the casting is superb, as well as the superb cold-painted surfaces. The sculpture retains original colors and original patina. Cold painted bronze refers to pieces cast in Vienna and then decorated in several layers with so-called dust paint; the expertise for the mix of this kind of paint has been lost. The color was not fired hence "cold painted". Mainly women working at home, a typical cottage industry, carried out the painting.

Noted for his detailed and colorful work, Bergmann was signing his creations with either a "B" in an urn-shaped cartouche, or "Nam Greb" - for "Bergman" in reverse. These marks used to disguise his identity on the erotic works.

Often, the sculptures are also marked with model number and stamped "GESHUTZED" (German for "PROTECTED"). We guarantee the authenticity of all items to be as represented. Ashville Fine Arts Gallery specializes in a variety of fine art, antiques, jewelry, collectibles and rare finds. If you have not seen something that interests you or that you collect, please visit often and check our ever-expanding inventory.

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