This exceptional sculpture, crafted around 1880 by Hermann Böhm, showcases the remarkable artistry of one of Austria’s most celebrated enamellists. Establishing his workshop in 1866, Böhm quickly gained international acclaim, earning recognition at prestigious exhibitions such as the 1873 Vienna Exhibition. Working in the Renaissance Revival style, he and his contemporaries catered to an elite clientele, producing opulent decorative wares inspired by historical designs - of which this magnificent piece is a prime example.
Shaped like a swan, the sculpture features an ovoid body adorned with an array of exquisitely hand-painted Classical scenes, some depicting allegorical groups representing elemental forces. Each artwork is framed by a delicate border, drawing the viewer’s gaze to the ornate spaces in between, which are filled with scrolling floral motifs set against a rich gilded background. The hexagonal base mirrors the bird’s elaborate decoration but is even more densely embellished with Classical imagery, including a frieze of female busts set against a deep blue ground.
Intricately enamelled silver-gilt bands, finely pierced and adorned with gems, elegantly divide each section of the sculpture. The bird’s head, neck, tail, and legs are vibrantly enamelled in shades of blue, green, orange, and white, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding painted details. While most of the decoration is polychrome, the undersides of the wings and tail are rendered in monochrome, adding a unique visual contrast.
Atop the swan’s head sits an ornate crown, further enhancing the piece’s regal presence. A silver cherubic figure rides the swan, its wings enamelled in a similar manner as the bird, reigns held in his hands as if taming the bird.
A remarkable feature of this sculpture is its removable upper half, which lifts to reveal an interior just as breathtaking as its exterior. Inside, a mesmerising collection of hand-painted motifs and circular enamel plaques is set against a rich gilded backdrop, mirroring the opulence of the outer design.
This extraordinary antique bears the marks ‘A’ for Vienna and ‘HB’ for Hermann Böhm, attesting to its prestigious origin.
Impressive in both scale and craftsmanship, this museum-worthy swan sculpture is a true masterpiece, making it a distinguished addition to any fine collection.
