Statuette "Lady with a surprise"

A distinctive expression of early 20th century Viennese decorative bronze is reflected in this exquisite artwork by author Nam Greb. With a keen eye for detail, the artist has creatively presented a statuette echoing the nuances of the “naked” genre, popular in the Austrian art industry in the late 19th century.

A piece from the famous Viennese bronze foundry established by Franz Bergman, this statuette is intricately marked with the brand's emblem and the signature 'Nam Greb', an ingenious anagram of the founder's surname, Bergmann. Hailing from the Czech Republic, Bergman’s foundry was celebrated for its artistic bronze objects, each carrying the 'Nam Greb' imprint as a tribute to his craft.

Featured in this artwork is a lady's figurine draped with a cape that hints at the playful unveiling of the subject, embodying the essence of a figurine-kunstyuk. Kunstyuk, a word used to indicate a jocular or offbeat twist in an artwork, accurately portrays this statuette's quick-witted appeal. With a secretive flourish, the cape opens up, revealing the girl beneath, adding a layer of humor and surprise to this timeless piece.

The fascination for objects with an erotic undertone wasn't confined to the general public. Even Russian emperors and grand dukes, specifically Alexander II and Alexander III, were known to be ardent collectors of such artifacts during the latter half of the 19th century, highlighting the widespread appeal of these intricate art pieces.