The statuette "The Negro and the concubine"

An exquisite example of early 20th-century Viennese decorative bronze craftsmanship, this sizeable statuette by renowned artist Nam Greb (an anagram and signature of famous bronze foundry founder, Franz Bergman) is a stunning display of precision and detail. This particular piece is a prime example of Bergman's blend of European craftsmanship with influences drawn from the broader world.

Originating from the world-famous Viennese bronze foundry based in the Czech Republic and founded by Franz himself, the statuette carries historical significance. Each piece produced at this bureau bore the unique and personal signature 'Nam Greb', effectively immortalizing the essence of Bergman's legacy within each intricately sculpted figure.

Capturing nuanced scenes plucked directly from the zeitgeist of the age, the art of creating small sculptural plastics and miniature multi-figure compositions using bronzing techniques became synonymous with Bergman's foundry. The subject matter strayed from the mundane and the banal, often finding inspiration in globally significant events and trending topics.

The completion of the construction of the Suez Canal in Egypt in 1869 unlocked a surge of interest towards the Middle East and inflated a new fashion of oriental themes within Western society. Memorably, Bergman's foundry tapped into this trend and found immense success by integrating exotic characters within their bronze creations, effectively catering to the tastes of a broad and diverse audience.