Carl Kauba (Austrian, 1865-1922), two bronzes, including (i) Rider Mounting A Horse, [overall: 8 3/8" H x 9 1/4" W x 5 3/8" D] and (ii) Rearing Horse With Rider, [overall: 10" H x 10 1/2" W x 4 3/4" D]. Both signed on bases. (ii) Additionally signed on saddle. Notes: This lot includes a photocopy of Bonhams & Butterfields invoice and catalog page. Artist's Bio: Franz Kauba was an Austrian sculptor born in Vienna in 1865. He studied under Karl Waschmann, known for ivory sculptures and portrait plaquettes, and Stefan Schwartz, who won a gold medal at the 1900 Paris Exposition Universelle. His intricate bronze sculptures were imported to the United States between 1895 and 1912 and cast at the Roman Bronze Works. Kauba was part of the nineteenth-century tradition of polychrome bronze sculpture, using multiple patinas to create realistic colors in clothing, feathers, blankets, and moccasins. Inspired by the Western stories of German author Karl May, he reportedly traveled to America around 1886 to sketch and model Western subjects. However, critics noted historical inaccuracies in his sculptures, including firearms that were manufactured after 1898. Although his works often depicted the American West, Kauba apparently created his sculptures in Vienna. His highly naturalistic style featured varied textures, elaborate ornaments, and dynamic figures, often arranged in multi-figure compositions. He also created other subjects, including Where?, There, and Buster Brown, demonstrating his versatility as a sculptor. His work Nude on Vase further illustrates his skill by contrasting the figure's smooth skin with the vase's stylized, plant-like design.

Surface dust and dirt. Slight abrasions throughout the bronzes. Brown patinated bronzes. (ii) Minor oxidation on horse's rear. Overall, both are in good condition. Dimensions provided are based on approximate measurements.