"Seated Arab Lamp" by Franz Bergman

This evocative cold-painted bronze lamp captures the romantic allure of the Orientalist tradition, modelled as a seated Arab figure resting upon a richly detailed rug. Draped in flowing garments of deep blue and warm ochre, the figure sits contemplatively beneath a tall, stylised standard supporting a hanging lantern. The lantern, with its pierced panels and coloured glass inserts, encloses an internal light fitting that casts a soft, atmospheric glow when illuminated. Finely cast details—from the delicate coffee vessel at his side to the textured folds of fabric—enhance the narrative intimacy of the scene. Both decorative and functional, the piece embodies exoticism, craftsmanship, and the charm of early 20th-century Viennese bronze artistry. Signed with the Bergman 'B' in an amphora vase and 'NamGreb'

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Height:                                      47 cm

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 Width:                                      23 cm

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 Depth:                                       15 cm

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Condition:                                 Excellent Original Condition

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Circa:                                         1910

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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:                                           9601

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ABOUT

Bergman Lamp

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