Early 20th Century Art Nouveau Cold-Painted Bronze Small Elephant Figurine by Franz Bergmann, Austria

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Art Nouveau cold-painted bronze small elephant figurine by Franz Bergmann, Austria

By: Franz Bergmann
Material: bronze, paint, copper, metal, bone
… Read more Art Nouveau cold-painted bronze small elephant figurine by Franz Bergmann, Austria

By: Franz Bergmann
Material: bronze, paint, copper, metal, bone
Technique: cast, cold-painted, painted, patinated, metalwork, molded, hand-painted, carved
Dimensions: 5.5 in x 2.5 in x 4 in
Date: early 20th century
Style: Belle Époque, Jugendstil, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Vienna Secession
Place of origin: Austria

An early 20th century cold-painted bronze elephant figurine that serves as proof of Franz Bergmann's mastery of miniature animal sculptures. The pachyderm is portrayed with remarkable realism, its trunk raised in a dynamic pose that captures the essence of the creature's strength and grace. The intricate detailing is evident in the textured skin, wrinkled trunk, and expressive eyes. A rich palette of earthy browns with hints of copper and gold highlights brings the sculpture to life, showcasing the nuanced cold-painting technique characteristic of Bergmann's Vienna bronze workshop. The elephant's sturdy stance and carefully rendered musculature demonstrate the artist's keen eye for animal anatomy. Typical of Bergmann's work, the maker's mark can be found on the underside of the elephant's foot.

This piece reflects the Belle Époque and Jugendstil influences prevalent in the Austrian decorative arts of the period. See less