Small Austrian Vienna Bronze Dwarf Miner with Giant Crystal Diamond

A wonderfully unusual late 19th Century / early 20th Century Austrian Vienna bronze novelty sculpture depicting a bearded dwarf miner discovering an enormous faceted crystal “diamond”. Dating to circa 1890–1910, the charming little figure is modelled wearing traditional working clothes and boots, with a mining hammer raised triumphantly in one hand. Beside him sits an exceptionally large faceted clear crystal/glass gemstone, cleverly positioned within a naturalistically modelled rocky outcrop to give the appearance of a gigantic diamond freshly unearthed by the miner. The contrast between the dark, naturally aged bronze and the brilliantly faceted clear stone gives the piece tremendous character, particularly as the crystal catches and reflects the surrounding light. The bronze is mounted upon its original oval moulded base, which has acquired a lovely untouched surface and patina through age. A particularly charming and rather eccentric example of the Austrian/Viennese tradition for humorous miniature bronzes and novelty desk objects produced around the turn of the 20th century. A fabulous little conversation piece that would display beautifully upon a desk, library table or within a collection of Vienna bronzes. Attributes: Origin: Austrian / Viennese Date: Circa 1890–1910 Material: Bronze with faceted crystal/glass gemstone Subject: Dwarf miner/prospector discovering a giant diamond ^^ Fast & Free UK Delivery Included^^ *A Certificate of Authenticity (COA) will be provided by artsonline with this piece* Delivery Artsonline UK ships worldwide daily, using only fully insured, priority, and fully tracked delivery services. Great care and much time are taken over the safe transportation of the Fine Art and Antique pieces that we sell. We pack extremely carefully, so you can rest assured that your piece will arrive with you in perfect condition. For larger paintings, antique furniture pieces, and fragile items that can not be sent via the normal postal services, we use professional door-to-door delivery providers, who will always strive to deliver your piece promptly, within approx. 7-14 working days. Returns Policy: Artsonline provides a genuine no-quibble 14-day money-back refund policy (excluding the cost of Postage and Packaging). Pay Securely - Telephone orders welcome Image result for payments accepted logos Secure-Payment-Vpadeb-sa-la-go-th-et-an-gt-004586-BACS-Order-PayPal-M/Card