Friedrich Goldscheider

FRIEDRICH GOLDSCHEIDER (Pilsen, Bohemia, 1845 - Vienna, Austria, 1897).
Sculpture, "Clock", ca. 1905.
Patinated terra cotta.
Marks and numbering on the back.
Very good preservation. The clock needs to be reworked.
Measurements: 90 x 52 x 34 cm.

Art Nouveau figurative sculpture-clock, totally identifiable of this style, made of polychrome terracotta by Goldscheider, Vienna, Austria. It represents Prometheus in chains with the eagle perched on him. Legend inscribed in Latin on the front.

In the Greek myth, Prometheus is punished by Zeus for stealing fire from the gods and giving it to mankind. The punishment consists of being chained to a rock in the Caucasus, where an eagle, often called Aethon, devours his liver daily. Since Prometheus is immortal, his liver regenerates each night, and the eagle returns the next day to continue the torment. This cycle of pain and regeneration lasts until Hercules, in one of his exploits, kills the eagle and frees Prometheus.

In 1885, Friedrich Goldscheider founded a terracotta manufactory in Vienna that became one of the most influential in Europe, excelling in historicism, Art Nouveau and Art Deco. The firm brought together renowned ceramists and innovators, producing more than four thousand models and winning numerous international awards. After the death of the founder, his widow Regina continued production with new artists such as Chiparus. The factory closed with the rise of National Socialism, but its pieces are still highly appreciated and can be found in museums all over the world. In 2007 and 2008 major exhibitions dedicated to Goldscheider were held in Vienna and New York.