Large Orientalist cold-painted bronze lamp of a princess by Bergman

This outstanding cold-painted bronze figurative lamp was crafted by Franz Xaver Bergman (1861-1936) who owned one of the most renowned Austrian bronze foundries of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The lamp depicts a princess reclined on a backless chaise lounge which is covered by a maroon-coloured round cushion. An unusual addition is the traditional polychrome rug placed on top of the furniture piece. The princess is dressed in typical Orientalist-style clothing rendered in shades of gold and green, with the vivid red tassels matching the rest of the surrounding. Her body is also lavishly adorned with jewellery. In front of her is a string instrument. A young Arab boy is standing next to her with an ornate fan in his hand. His garments are rendered in similar shades as that of the female creating cohesion within the design.

The architectural features surrounding both figures are inspired by Islamic architecture. From the canopy hangs a vibrant, patterned curtain, its colours and patterns matching the rug below. In front of it stands a prominent selection of palm tree leaves. The canopy is supported by two twisted poles and is adorned with pierced arabesque motifs. The roof is filled with a repetitive pattern and is topped by a crescent moon, an important symbol of Islam.

To the reverse, the lamp is stamped with a ‘B’ in an urn-shaped cartouche, ‘Nam Greb’ and ‘MADE IN AUSTRIA’.

Of a very interesting design, this cold-painted bronze lamp would be a superb addition to one’s collection of Viennese bronzes.