Franz Bergman Vienna Bronze Lizard, Early 20th Century
A remarkably lifelike Vienna bronze lizard produced by the workshops of Franz Bergman, Vienna, in the early 20th century.
Among the finest makers of Vienna cold-painted bronzes, Franz Bergman (1861–1936) transformed animals, everyday objects, and exotic subjects into miniature sculptures celebrated for their realism and extraordinary craftsmanship. His work reflects Vienna’s fascination with natural history, scientific observation, and decorative art at the turn of the century.
Executed at full scale, this lizard is an exceptional example of Bergman’s artistry. Every detail has been carefully observed—from the individually modelled claws and textured scales to the muscular body and elegantly tapering tail. Even the underside is fully finished, demonstrating the workshop’s uncompromising attention to detail. The natural pose gives the sculpture an almost startling sense of movement.
The bronze retains its original cold-painted surface, applied by hand rather than fired, a hallmark of the Bergman foundry. This delicate technique allowed for remarkably subtle colour and remains one of the defining characteristics of the finest Vienna bronzes.
Marked with the Bergman **B** and **Geschützt**, the sculpture survives in unusually well-preserved condition, with crisp modelling and vibrant original paint. Examples of this size, quality, and state of preservation have become increasingly difficult to find.
Dimensions: 25 × 17 × 4.5 cm (9.84 × 6.69 × 1.77 in).
