Franz Bergmann modernist silver jewelry
Bird brooch pin. Sterling silver, amethyst cabochon. Franz Bergmann modernist silver jewelry
Franz Bergmann modernist silver jewelry
Born August 6, 1898 in Austria, Franz Walter Bergmann grew up in the family of a musician and artist, imbibing a love of art from childhood. After serving in World War I, he studied painting at the National Academy of Arts in Vienna, from which he graduated with honors in 1925.
The very next year he moved to the United States, where he lived and worked in New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, receiving commissions for artwork and participating in art exhibitions. In addition, he taught at various schools of fine arts.
Noteworthy, Bergman began creating abstract modernist jewelry in the late 1940s. Traditionally, the master used sterling silver and natural stones such as amethyst, quartz, as well as art glass. He marked his brooches, pins, earrings, and pendants with the conjoined initials “FB”. Today, his jewelry pieces have become scarce and are highly collectable.
Despite the serious car accident ands his broken legs (1952), the master continued to create, preferring to work with enamel. He successfully sold his products and participated in various art exhibitions for ten years. However, from 1962, Bergmann spent the rest of his years traveling with his wife until his death in 1977.
Self-portrait, Franz Walter Bergmann (1898 – 1977)
Maker’s mark
Franz Bergmann modernist silver jewelry
Abstract design brooch pin. Sterling silver, pink quartz
Human figure shape mid-century sterling silver pin
Leaf and dew drop mid-century sterling silver brooch
Modernist mid-century earrings. Sterling silver, glass cabochons
Vintage modernist sterling silver brooch pin
Maker’s mark
