"Saddled Horse" by Franz Bergman

A finely detailed cold-painted bronze of a saddled horse demonstrating the refined craftsmanship associated with the Vienna workshop of Franz Bergman. The horse stands alert and poised, its elegant proportions and naturalistic modelling capturing both strength and quiet composure. Subtle variations in the warm brown patina enhance the musculature, while the delicately painted saddle and bridle add a note of realism and charm. Signed with the Bergman “B” and marked “gesch”—an abbreviation of Geschützt, indicating a registered design—the piece reflects both artistic quality and authenticity. The careful balance of form, colour, and detail makes this sculpture a distinguished example of early 20th-century Viennese bronze artistry. 

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Height:                                      24 cm

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 Width:                                      28 cm

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 Depth:                                       6 cm

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Condition:                                 Excellent Original Condition

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Circa:                                         1900

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Materials:                                 Cold Painted Bronze

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Book Ref                                   Antique Vienna Bronzes by J Zobel

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SKU:                                           9609

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ABOUT

Bergman Horse

Franz Bergman Sculptures

Franz Bergman (1861–1936) was one of the most celebrated Viennese makers of cold-painted bronze sculptures, renowned for his highly detailed and often exotic subjects. Working in Vienna during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Bergman produced a wide range of figures that captured the imagination of collectors, combining fine casting with meticulous hand-applied colour.

Cold painting, a technique in which pigments are applied directly onto the bronze surface rather than fired, allowed for remarkable realism and vibrancy. Bergman’s workshop became particularly known for its animalier subjects, including finely observed studies of cats, dogs, birds, and more unusual creatures such as reptiles. Lizards, frogs, snakes, and other small animals were rendered with striking accuracy, their textures and natural colouring carefully depicted through delicate brushwork. These pieces often conveyed a sense of liveliness and character, despite their modest scale.

In addition to animals, Bergman also produced Orientalist figures, erotic subjects, and humorous compositions, many marked with the distinctive “B” in an urn-shaped cartouche. His work reflects both technical mastery and a fascination with storytelling through sculpture.

Today, Bergman bronzes are highly sought after for their craftsmanship, condition of original paint, and variety of subject matter. Animal and reptile examples, in particular, are prized for their charm, naturalism, and decorative appeal, representing a unique fusion of sculpture and painting in early 20th-century Vienna.

For a further selection of sculptures by Bergman please click on Franz Bergman Sculptures