FRANZ BERGMAN (1861-1936): AN AUSTRIAN COLD-PAINTED BRONZE MODEL OF A HORSE

With an impressed 'B' in a vase motif, numbered '6782' and inscribed 'GESCHUTZT', 26cm wide; 24cm high

Modelled as a Marwari Stallion, identifiable by its uniquely curled ears. This horse was a highly prized breed of the Marwar people, a region of western Rajasthan, Indian, ruled by the Rathores. From the 12th Century until the 1930’s the purity of Marwari horse was strictly protected: used as a cavalry horse and much admired for its hardiness, loyalty and bravery on the battlefield.

Estimate:	£800 - £1,200
Hammer price:	£1,500

Bidding ended. Lot has been sold.

Provenance:

Gifted in the early 1950’s to the vendor's grandfather from the 16th Duke and Duchess of Norfolk, who was the Norfolk’s first private race horse trainer in 1942.

Condition Report:

Overall in good order. The reins on one side have been moved and become detached from the side of the bronze in their usual position leaving a mark. Some wear to the paint on the stirrups/saddle.

There appears to be some possible additions to the hooves, solder or similar, perhaps to flatten them so that they sit flush to a surface when standing as a result of previously being attached to a base, although this is speculative.

Please find additional images and close ups of the undersides of the hooves. It would be very likely that horse was a mounted on a plinth base at some point and solder used to fix the horse to this base. At some point it was removed.

Sell one like this I have a question