Antique Austrian Cast Bronze Model of a Charging Goat on Green Marble Plinth, 1890s

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Tucked horns and a lowered head give this miniature bronze goat a spirited, charging posture. The animal is captured mid-stride … Read more Tucked horns and a lowered head give this miniature bronze goat a spirited, charging posture. The animal is captured mid-stride with its forelegs tucked up and hindquarters planted, conveying a sense of sudden momentum. Crisp surface chasing defines the coarse texture of the coat, the ridge of the spine, small swept-back horns, and an alert, curled tail. Cast in solid bronze, the figure has a rich, dark brown patina that catches the light along the raised musculature of the flanks and shoulders. It is mounted directly onto a substantial slab of dark green marble, marked with distinct sea-green and off-white mineral veining. The contrast between the dark patinated metal and the polished mineral base is typical of Continental desk sculptures. Animal bronzes of this scale flourished in Austria during the late nineteenth or early twentieth century, popularised by Vienna’s bronze foundries for use as luxury desk ornaments, paperweights, or cabinet curiosities. In overall dimensions, the piece stands approximately 6 cm high, with a maximum length of 8.5 cm and a depth of 7 cm across the plinth. The underside of the plinth is finished with a protective square of reddish-brown felt to prevent scratching polished furniture. The casting remains sound and firmly seated on its mount. A few minute fleabites and minor chips are visible along the lower rim of the marble base, consistent with gentle handling over time, while the bronze itself retains an even, attractive surface. See less