19th Century American Tiffany & Co. Bronze Bust of William Shakespeare

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Description

Circa 1880, this impressive antique American bronze bust depicts the celebrated playwright William Shakespeare with a calm, contemplative expression. Modeled … Read more Circa 1880, this impressive antique American bronze bust depicts the celebrated playwright William Shakespeare with a calm, contemplative expression. Modeled in Renaissance dress, the figure wears a finely detailed doublet with ornamental buttons and tasseled ties, partially draped with a cloak that wraps gracefully across the shoulders and chest. The sculptural modeling is refined and naturalistic, particularly in the treatment of the high forehead, curled hair, trimmed beard, and expressive facial features.
The reverse of the sculpture is clearly stamped TIFFANY & CO, identifying the prestigious New York firm as the retailer. Founded in 1837, Tiffany & Co became one of America’s most respected luxury houses of the 19th century. In addition to their renowned silver and jewelry, the firm produced and retailed fine art bronzes of exceptional quality, often inspired by classical and literary subjects suited for refined interiors.
The base also bears the circular Reduction Mécanique A. Collas Breveté foundry seal, referencing the mechanical reduction system developed by Achille Collas in France. This innovative process allowed sculptural models to be accurately reduced and reproduced in bronze while preserving the fine details of the original work, and was widely used by leading bronze producers in the late 19th century.
Raised on a circular socle, the bust presents beautifully on a desk, library table, or pedestal in a study or literary interior. The bronze retains a rich, even brown patina with subtle highlights that accentuate the facial planes and garment details. The sculpture is in excellent antique condition commensurate with age and use.
Dimensions: 12.5"W x 6"D x 17.5"H See less