Early 20th C. Viennese Orientalist Bronze, Bedouin Rider signed by Anton Chotka

Anton Chotka was a leading producer of cold-painted bronzes in Vienna from the late 19th to early 20th century. During its heyday Vienna had some of the greatest craftsmen in the world. Orientalism had inspired European artists since the 17th century, but the 1873 Vienna World’s Fair sparked a fresh craze in continental Europe for Egyptian and Moroccan art. Islamic-inspired art and bronzes were produced by Vienna’s greatest sculptors including Bergman and Chotka; this early 20th century bronze would be one of them. 

Depicting a Bedouin rider astride his rearing horse, the colour palette of this piece is subdued as there has been paint loss, with remnants in blue, green and gilt imparting a subtle vitality. The quality of the bronze casting is exceptional, which is typical of Chotka and it is signed on the base. The windswept robes, leaning pose and rearing horse are all excellently depicted.

Price marked at AU$2250

Measurements: 17 by 10 base measurements, 17.5 cm high.

Condition: Good vintage condition with wear to base commensurate with age. Paint loss as aforementioned.