BRONZES

[Mervyn Mitton]

A complex subject but, one that has great appeal to the collector. However, you do need to do some research and

have an understanding of the techniques involved. Should we have the interest then I think further articles could be

of great benefit to collectors.

I will show a number of different styles - please show any examples that you may have.

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_05_2013/post-6209-0-11028000-1367588908.jpgclick

This is one that I have recently bought - there is still a lot to be discovered. Firstly, it is not signed - fairly unusual

but, with time and the style it is in, we will probably be able to make a good guess. Secondly, the subject is quite strange.

I thought at first that it was a 'Red Indian' from the Plains of the USA attacking a Moor. That would be a strange mix -

and historically very inaccurate.

I am tending to think now that it may have intentions to show a scene from Ancient Rome - although I can't think which

one ? The figure on the right has an African appearance and is wearing clothing that could be Roman. The figure

on the left is intended to be 'savage' - but, from where . I am thinking perhaps Germanic or, a Gaul ?

The main manufacturers of this type of cold painted bronzes were Bergman's of Austria - they tend to date from around the

late 19th to early 20th Century. After casting the bronze would be painted and given another light firing to preserve the

decoration. The cloak of the Moor has an enamelled look. Overall the figures are some two feet in length ( 60cm.)

I will probably ask Christie's if they can assist - meanwhile, your thoughts and suggestions will be welcome. Mervyn

[Mervyn Mitton]

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[Mervyn Mitton]

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[Mervyn Mitton]

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[QSAMIKE]

Good Morning Mervyn.....

I am sure that you have heard of the Calgary Stampede the Roedo and Fair that is held here in Calgary every year..... Well one portion of it is the Arts Festival......

Local and International artists bring their works, mostly with a western theme but not all, for show and sale...... A couple of years ago they had a big display or Remington and Russell works.....

There are some fantastic bronzes and looking at the prices are very reasonable...... A couple of years ago I was able to purchase a bronze of Nelson and Napoleon each about 20 inches high..... The one thing that I wish I had bought was a 1/2 life size painting of Lt. Colonel Sam B. Steele but I did not have the $600.00 at the time.......

One of the nice things is that the youngsters all stay out on the midway after all they come for the fun not the art and therefore it is not to crowded......

Mike

[Mervyn Mitton]

These are two nice bronzes that I was shown yesterday. They are in the Boardroom of a large factory

and I would feel probably date to the 1930's. They have plaques giving casting numbers, however,can't see a name. I will do some research. Probably quite valuable - they have good patination.

The wood carrier is from the Xhosa Tribe in the Eastern Cape. The Zulu one shows a witch doctor or,

Sangoma. A fairly rare subject. Please let me know if you have any ideas on the artist ? Mervyn

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_02_2014/post-6209-0-09826500-1392457294.jpgclick

http://gmic.co.uk/uploads/monthly_02_2014/post-6209-0-18577900-1392457642.jpgclick

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[Brian Wolfe]

I can add nothing but my congratulations on your acquisition. The first piece seems to be a mix of cultures, as you noted, but the workmanship is superb.

Regards

Brian

[Mervyn Mitton]

No - I didn't buy them - I was only asked to value. Mervyn

[Stuka f]

Sorry unable to help here.

Bronzes are quiet complexe and like you said thise subject is so rare to see.

cheers

|<ris