Object Description
Austrian cold-painted bronze and marble figurative lamp attributed to Bergman
Austrian, c. 1910
Height 46cm, width 26cm, depth 16cm
This impressive cold-painted bronze lamp showcases a charming and unusual scene of two artists working in a pottery workshop. The figurative lamp was superbly crafted in early 20th century Austria and is attributed to Franz Xaver Bergman (1861-1936).
The first figure is seen sitting down with a large ceramic vase. In his hand is a paintbrush with which he is carefully painting the red detailing on the piece. The second man is standing in front of a pottery turntable on which he expertly creates new vessels. Both figures are dressed in Orientalist-style clothing.
The wall behind the artists is adorned with a brightly coloured and richly patterned rug, while in front of them are completed vases. The construction surrounding them is inspired by Orientalist architecture, in particular that of a mosque. A domed roof is topped by a crescent moon, an important symbol of Islam. Each of the four sides of the tower below features two textured glass panes coloured green and red. When the light is switched on, the glass as well as the scene below are beautifully illuminated enhancing all the intricate features of the sculpture.
The snapshot of a pottery workshop immortalised in cold-painted bronze stands on an elegant marble base.
The piece bears the following marks: ‘AUFF’, ‘MADE IN AUSTRIA’, and a ‘B’ in an urn-shaped cartouche.
Showcasing a rare scene, this exceptional table lamp would make an outstanding addition to one’s interior setting.