Cold-painted bronze sculpture of a pulled rickshaw by Bergman

This antique cold-painted bronze was crafted by the renowned Austrian maker Franz Xaver Bergman (1861-1936), the forerunner of the innovative cold-painting technique being used at the beginning of the 20^th century.

The sculpture showcases an Arab man pulling an empty rickshaw behind him. He wears a wrapped turban and tunic whilst his torso is left naked, and the bright gold colours of his clothing showcase the possibilities of the cold-painting technique. The figure is clearly moving quickly, balancing on his left foot as he leans forward, and Bergman’s deft capturing of the running motion shows impressive craftsmanship.

Behind the figure is the pulled rickshaw, a historic two-wheeled cart that would seat either one or two passengers. Also crafted from bronze, the two large wheels house a seat of simulated leather, with a rain cover pulled down behind. Particular detail can be seen in the footwell, which is adorned with a foliate and geometric design in a variety of colours.

The figure and his cart are mounted on a shining cream marble piece with brown veining, which complements the colours of the bronze and provides a stunning visual contrast that adds to the luxury of the piece.

The back panel of the rickshaw is marked with ‘B’ in an urn-shaped cartouche, alongside ‘GESCHÜTZT’ and other markings that signify the Bergman foundry.  

Of an unusual subject and combining expertly crafted bronze with eye-catching marble, this piece would be a wonderful addition to any collection of Orientalist antiques.