Rare French Classical Terra Cotta Bust of Young Marie Antoinette C1890

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An antique French Classical terra cotta bust depicting a young Marie Antoinette, dating to approximately 1890. This finely sculpted piece … Read more An antique French Classical terra cotta bust depicting a young Marie Antoinette, dating to approximately 1890. This finely sculpted piece captures the delicate features and flowing drapery characteristic of the period, resting on a distinguished black marble pedestal base. The bust showcases meticulous craftsmanship in the rendering of the girl's expressive face, intricately styled hair, and the graceful folds of her attire, embodying the refined elegance of late 19th-century French artistry. The warm, earthy tones of the terra cotta material provide a naturalistic quality to the sculpture, beautifully complemented by the rich, dark veining of the contrasting black marble base. The bust portrays a young Marie Antoinette with an introspective gaze, her head slightly turned, suggesting a moment of quiet contemplation. Her hair is styled in an elaborate updo, characteristic of fashionable coiffures of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, reflecting a neoclassical influence. The drapery across her shoulders and chest is rendered with a softness that contrasts with the firmness of the terra cotta, highlighting the sculptor's skill in conveying texture and movement. The choice of terra cotta as a medium provides a tactile warmth and a matte finish, distinct from marble or bronze, offering a more intimate and approachable feel to the classical subject. The robust, turned black marble base provides a stable and elegant foundation, elevating the bust and enhancing its visual impact. As an unsigned work, it stands as a prime example of classical revival sculpture, reflecting a timeless aesthetic..

Measures - 21.75"H x 12"W x 7.5"D See less