Large Viennese cold-painted bronze lamp of an Arab soldier

Crafted in the early 20^th century, this bronze lamp is a work of great sculptural craftsmanship and Orientalist design.

With a simple yet elegant composition, the lamp depicts an Arab soldier in solitude, standing guard beneath a tall palm tree. With his intense facial expression and raised left arm, the figure is presented alert and ready against any dangers. He is dressed in typical Orientalist clothing, rendered in muted tones. The trademark cold-painting technique, whereby unfired dust paint is applied to the surface of the sculpture, is used to its full effect, creating subtle red and golden contrasts which bring the garments of the soldier to life.

The tree which shields the figure is masterfully crafted, with the delicate etchings on the trunk and leaves displaying an exquisite attention to detail. The smoothness of the figure and daintiness of the tree details contrast wonderfully with the base of the bronze, expertly carved to look like a rocky outcrop. Hidden amongst the leaves at the apex of the sculpture is a small lamp fitting, which beautifully illuminates the figure below.

On the underside of the lamp is a later etched mark of ‘AUSTRIA’.

As an exemplar of the fine Austrian bronze work at the turn of the century, this superb lamp would be a great addition to the home of any collector of Orientalist pieces.