A remarkably lifelike Vienna bronze lizard produced in the workshops of Franz Bergman in Vienna during the early twentieth century.
Among the most celebrated exponents of Vienna’s cold-painted bronze tradition, Franz Bergman (1861–1936) became renowned for transforming everyday subjects, animals, and exotic motifs into miniature works of art distinguished by exceptional realism and meticulous craftsmanship. His bronzes were not merely decorative objects but expressions of the Viennese fascination with naturalism, scientific observation, and the decorative arts at the turn of the century.
Executed at full scale, this lizard is a particularly compelling example of Bergman’s artistry. The sculptor’s attention to anatomical detail is extraordinary, from the individually articulated toes and claws to the textured scales, muscular body, and elegantly tapering tail. Even the underside has been carefully rendered, reflecting the workshop’s commitment to realism from every angle. The pose conveys a convincing sense of movement and alertness, blurring the line between sculpture and nature.
The bronze retains its original cold-painted surface, a technique for which the Bergman foundry became internationally renowned. Applied by hand rather than fired, these vivid paints allowed for remarkable nuance and naturalistic coloration, contributing significantly to the charm and collectability of Vienna bronzes today.
Marked with the distinctive Bergman foundry mark, the piece remains in an unusually well-preserved state, retaining its crisp modeling and vibrant surface. Examples of this scale and quality are increasingly difficult to find, particularly when preserved in such complete and untouched condition.
Length: 27 cm
Width: 9.5 cm
Weight: 527 grams
A striking example of Viennese bronze craftsmanship, combining sculptural virtuosity, natural history, and decorative elegance in equal measure.
