Large antique cold-painted bronze lamp of a minaret scene by Bergman

Large antique cold-painted bronze lamp of a minaret scene by Bergman
Austrian, c. 1910
Height 37cm, width 20cm, depth 12cm
 
This charming bronze lamp was crafted by Viennese artist Franz Xaver Bergman (1861-1936), who pioneered the complex cold-painting technique at the turn of the 20th century.
 
The lamp is rendered as a towering gold minaret, filled with intricate details such as geometric windowpanes and spiralled fluting. A large green canopy extends over the lower section, and the drapery here is particularly impressive. The composition stands on a brickwork base, the steps up to which are covered with a colourful Persian rug.
 
Under the canopy are two figures, both dressed in colourful robes and turbans. The seated figure sits outside the entrance to the minaret, smoking from a pipe. The standing figure is a muezzin (the Muslim official who proclaims the hours of prayer), who can be seen calling out and holding open the curtain entrance to the minaret.
 
The base of the piece is stamped with the Bergman mark of the letter ‘B’ within an urn-shaped cartouche, as well as with ‘MADE IN AUSTRIA’ and a facsimile signature ‘?eng’.
 
With its impressive moulding and charming composition, this Orientalist piece would suit both traditional and contemporary interiors.
 
Artist/Maker: Franz Xaver Bergman