The black man on a half gondola is a wooden sculpture. The figure is coated with a shimmering lustre glaze. The technique of lustre glazing was used in the Baroque era to imitate high-quality materials. Transparent green, red or blue glazes were applied over sliver leaf to give the impression of precious stones – for example, on the seams of garments. This coating is richly embellished with hallmarks and engravings. The Ried coat of arms can be seen on the waistcoat. 

These kinds of figures were popular from the mid-19th century and were only produced in Venice. This one was probably commissioned by a wealthy Ried citizen in Venice. But the sculptor must have been in possession of an exact copy of the town coat of arms. 

People from Africa were predominantly employed as servants in rich aristocratic houses. This is why the figure is presented as a “mute servant”. The right arm is raised and holds a shell-like bowl – for guests to leave their visiting cards. 

Before this figure was acquired by the museum, it was part of a window display in a Ried patisserie.