Erotic Bedouin Bronze by Franz Bergmann

This Austrian cold-painted bronze figure by Franz Bergmann hides a secret. A Bedouin man stands atop a vibrantly patterned carpet stroking a cat. But unlatch his robe and his spring-loaded arms open to reveal that the man is engaged in another form of “petting.” Fine detailing and tantalizing subject matter make this piece a rare find.

Franz Bergmann was renowned for his patinated and cold-painted Orientalist bronzes, which included subjects from the exotic bedouin to the erotic nude. Always of intricate detail, these figures are among the most highly collectible bronze pieces on the market.

Circa 1890

2 1/4" wide x 2 7/8" deep x 3 1/2" high