catalog text
VICTOR HEINRICH SEIFERT (GERMAN, 1870-1953) "TRINKENDER FRAUENAKT"
Germany, c. 1890-1900, signed "V. Seifert AKT Ges Gladenbeck Berlin"
Item # 120011OPP10A
Victor Heinrich Seifert as an affluent and productive bronze artist during the early 20th Century. He was born in Vienna in 1870 and was active in Germany until his death in Berlin, 1953. A pupil of d’E. Herter, L. Manzel and P. Breuer, he was a sculptor of statues, monuments and military subjects. This famous work is one of his most successful subjects, a simply magnetic work of art executed in bronze- the figure of this young woman is graceful and dignified, softly holding the gilt bowl of water while holding her lips softly to the brim for a sip. Absent of the defiant or brazen, she is natural and chaste in demeanor, her diffident pose and gentle fluent lines speak of her inner strength and confidence. The patina is warm and flowing, much like the form of the figure, shifting from a heavy dark bronze to a muted golden tone for an intensely striking overall effect. This antique bronze sculpture is represented in the extensive collection of his works at the Museum of Leipzig in Germany.
Around the modeled base is the signature, including the impression from the Gladenbeck foundry, the AKT and absence of "Sohn" in the impression probably placing this cast right around 1900. It is in remarkable condition, well preserved with light patina wear throughout, exquisitely detailed and of incredible quality. Antique bronze sculptures by Seifert cast during the period maintain strong price records at Christies, Sotheby's, fine regional auction houses nationwide and numerous auctions in Germany. This is a simply outstanding antique bronze sculpture for any serious collector.
Measurements: 11 1/8" high; base diameter 2 3/4" x 2 3/4"