Bidding & Process
The House
Follow the House
300 20th Street · Sacramento
© 2026 Witherell’s
Live Auction
LUXURY ASSET AUCTION: Featuring Choice Property from the Collection of Al and Carol Cali
Thu, Jan 29, 2026 02:00PM EST
Lot 126
Carl Kauba (attrib.), “A Treasure Seeker” Naughty Bronze Pair, ca. Early 20th Century
Estimate: $1,000 - $2,500
Bid Increments
| Price | Bid Increment |
|---|---|
| $0 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $2,500 |
| $50,000 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $10,000 |
A clever two-part “naughty” bronze group attributed to Austrian sculptor Carl Kauba (1865–1922), depicting a humorous narrative in two scenes: a boy energetically digs into the ground, while a reclining nude female figure is revealed as the “treasure” buried below. These risqué figural compositions were popular in turn-of-the-century Vienna for their playful eroticism and novelty appeal. The base is titled A TREASURE SEEKER and signed “T. Curts,” a name frequently associated with Kauba. Scholars have noted that bronzes bearing the Curts signature often share stylistic and casting traits with known Kauba works, suggesting a common origin within the same foundry or studio system.
Dimensions: 6 x 3 x 8 in., tall.
Provenance: Al and Carol Cali Collection.
Pickup & Shipping: Free Sacramento pickup. Shipping via FedEx for $45 + 1.5% insurance (unless waived in writing).
Very good overall; light rubbing and patina wear consistent with age.
Condition
Shipping is only in continental U.S. and information regarding shipping price is provided within the description of each lot. For international and larger items that we cannot ship in house, please take a look at our shipping contacts.