Austrian cold-painted bronze figurative sculpture by Bergman

This very fine cold-painted bronze sculpture was crafted in the early 20th century by Franz Xaver Bergman (1861-1936), one of the most important Austrian artists creating pieces using this complex technique.

The sculpture showcases an Arab man walking with a leashed panther. The man’s body positions suggest he is attempting to control the wild animal and ensure it does not get away from him. Flowing cloth is wrapped around his waist, covering most of his legs, while his torso is left naked only adorned with a large selection of intricate jewellery. The clothing is rendered in shades of green ensuring it stands out against the patinated bronze colouring of the rest of the sculpture. His head is covered with a turban and further jewellery in the form of bracelets can be observed on his muscular arms. The panther is cast with exceptional attention to detail, the artist highlighting many of its anatomical features such as eyes, nose, and muscles.

Both the man and the panther are mounted on a rectangular marble base. The grey and white colouring of the stone wonderfully matches the brown tones of the bronze and makes the sculpture stand out.

The piece is marked with ‘GESCHÜTZT’ alongside other markings.

Of an Orientalist-themed design, this cold-painted bronze sculpture would make a superb addition to one’s collection.