Vintage Bronze Nick Bottom From Shakespeare’s “A Midsummer Night’s Dream” on Marble Pedestal

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Description

Whimsical and wonderfully theatrical patinated bronze sculpture depicting Nick Bottom from William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream following his magical … Read more Whimsical and wonderfully theatrical patinated bronze sculpture depicting Nick Bottom from William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream following his magical transformation, in which the mischievous Puck gives Bottom the head of a donkey.

Bottom is portrayed seated cross-legged in an expressive, bewildered pose, one hand raised toward his newly transformed donkey’s head. Perched upon his opposite knee is a charming diminutive winged fairy or sprite, an enchanting reference to the fairy world surrounding Bottom and Titania in Shakespeare’s celebrated comedy.

The sculpture is particularly appealing for its expressive modeling and narrative detail. Bottom’s elongated donkey face, oversized ears, tousled hair, theatrical costume and wonderfully human posture contrast delightfully with the tiny fairy figure. The integral bronze base is modeled in a rustic, woodland-like texture appropriate to the enchanted forest setting of the play.

Finished in a warm brown patina with darker and subtly verdigris-toned recesses that emphasize the modeling. The sculpture rests upon a substantial polished cylindrical pedestal of striking variegated red, cream and gray marble.

No signature or foundry marks observed.

An unusual and highly decorative sculpture with tremendous character—particularly appealing to collectors of Shakespeareana, theatrical objects and fanciful figurative bronzes. See less