Bidspirit auction | Frank Meisler

Frank Meisler - King David. An impressive and meticulously crafted bronze sculpture by Frank Meisler, one of Israel's most internationally celebrated artists, renowned for combining Jewish tradition, history, and richly decorative design. This remarkable sculpture possesses an extraordinary presence. Heavy and substantial, it weighs approximately 15 kg and commands attention through both its scale and craftsmanship. It comes from a private collector who stated that he originally paid $6,000 plus VAT for the piece. In order to verify this information, I personally visited the Frank Meisler Gallery in Old Jaffa, where I was informed that the current retail price for this sculpture is approximately $8,000 plus VAT. There is little doubt that this represents a compelling opportunity for collectors. The sculpture remains in excellent, like-new condition. The work depicts King David seated upon his royal throne, holding a harp and playing in a moment of quiet contemplation. The figure embodies a fascinating duality: on one hand, David appears as king and warrior; on the other, as poet and musician, as described in biblical tradition. His calm and focused posture suggests an inner world rich in reflection—a life marked by glory and triumph, yet equally shaped by personal trials and tragedy. The throne itself is inspired by the Lion of Judah, the enduring symbol of kingship, strength, and the House of David. Rich decorative ornamentation, combined with gold-plated details and gemstone accents, lends the sculpture a regal elegance and exceptional visual richness. Frank Meisler's renowned attention to detail is evident throughout: in the folds of the garments, the expressive facial features, and the intricate rendering of the musical instrument. Executed in bronze and mixed metal alloys with gold-plated elements, the sculpture rests upon a rotating Jerusalem stone base, adding an interactive dimension while reinforcing its connection to the city and the cultural heritage from which it draws inspiration. Frank Meisler's works occupy a unique position between fine art and master craftsmanship. Deeply rooted in Jewish history and identity, they have been exhibited and collected internationally, admired for their storytelling, technical precision, and decorative sophistication. His sculptures transform historical and biblical figures into timeless symbols that resonate with audiences across cultures. Technique: Bronze and mixed metal alloys with gold-plated elements Base: Rotating Jerusalem stone base Edition: Limited edition Dimensions: 32 × 18 × 13 cm Weight: Approximately 15 kg Condition: Excellent, like new Both majestic and intimate, King David celebrates one of the most beloved figures of the biblical tradition—not only as a sovereign ruler, but as the shepherd, musician, poet, and visionary whose legacy continues to inspire. Combining distinguished craftsmanship, strong provenance, and significant decorative appeal, this sculpture represents an exceptional acquisition for collectors of Jewish and Israeli art.