Important bronze vase, Russia, early 19th century, attributed to Friedrich Bergenfeldt, h. 70 cm. The vase features a burnished bronze bell-shaped upper body bordered by a gilded band depicting rural scenes. In the center of the vase's body is a gilded bronze application with a bacchante and a satyr intent on playing an instrument while dancing. On the sides of the vase are two volute handles with vegetal motifs upon which are two heads of lunar deities, as suggested by the crescent moon placed on their heads. The upper part ends with a double gilded band below which is affixed a gilded festoon of flowers and leaves held by two bows. The vase is placed on a cylindrical pedestal with applications depicting vestals, resting on a gilded base. Completing the vase is the overlying burnished bronze lid with a gilded dome-shaped decoration with an eagle on top of it. This vase is part of a group of works made in Russia at the beginning of the 19th century by the German-born bronzier Friedrich Bergenfeldt (1760-1814/22). The vases he produced in these years were an expression of the Russian Empire Style, which took broad inspiration from the French style, very much in vogue throughout Europe. His vases were characterized by a classical design, with elements taken from the ancient world such as deities and mythological figures, combined with more romantic elements. The overall style had great similarities with the works of the French Empire Style, in particular those of the bronzier Claude Galle (1759-1815), whose works with an antique taste were particularly appreciated. BIOGRAPHY Friedrich Bergenfeldt was born in Westphalia in 1760. He began his career as a bronzier in Russia, where many German and Swiss artisans went to work. At the end of the 18th century, it is hypothesized that he also spent a period in Paris, where he most likely came into contact with Claude Galle. He then returned permanently to St. Petersburg, where he became one of the most sought-after bronziers by the Russian aristocracy and royals: his clients included Count Stroganov, Prince Yusupov, and Empress Maria Feodorovna. He managed to establish himself as one of the most appreciated bronziers in the early 19th century thanks to the quality of his works so close to the French style, which were highly demanded in Russia. He created monumental vases, chandeliers, precious candelabra, but also bronzes to be applied to furniture for his compatriot cabinetmaker Heinrich Gambs, also active in St. Petersburg. He also collaborated with other bronziers in St. Petersburg and other artists who designed the works he made. Bergenfeldt's activity as a bronzier, however, was short-lived and ceased as early as 1807. In 1822 he died in St. Petersburg.