French Fernandel Sculptural Head with Glass Eyes, 1930s

Details

Description

Rare french sculptural head of fernandel – art deco period – glass eyes

an exceptionally unusual and expressive french polychrome … Read more Rare french sculptural head of fernandel – art deco period – glass eyes

an exceptionally unusual and expressive french polychrome plaster head portraying the young fernandel (1903–1971), one of the most celebrated figures of french cinema.

this striking character sculpture captures his distinctive elongated nose, expressive eyebrows, prominent cheeks and unmistakable broad smile.

of particular interest are the genuine fixed glass eyes, which give the portrait remarkable depth and presence.

the hair and teeth are sculpted directly into the original mould and carefully painted, while the surface retains its attractive smooth satin polychrome finish.

an exceptionally hard-to-find model: no identical example of this particular sculpture has been identified to date.

the head is hollow-moulded plaster, internally reinforced with textile gauze embedded in the material, a traditional technique used in decorative sculpture and historical display figures.

period: probably france, first half of the twentieth century, possibly circa 1930–1940. The youthful representation evokes fernandel’s appearance during the early years of his theatrical and film career.

the exact manufacturer, production date and original function remain unidentified. A commercial, theatrical or promotional display purpose is possible.

condition: very good antique display condition. Beautifully preserved facial polychromy and intact glass eyes. Light surface wear, minor paint losses and small chips, primarily around the lower edge of the neck. No major structural damage apparent.

dimensions

head only: h 28 × w 17 × d 23 cm; weight 1.4 kg.

with stand: overall height 33 cm; stand diameter 25 cm; stand height 5 cm; total weight 2.25 kg.

presented on an elegant removable black circular stand, a later addition included in the sale. The original sculpture has not been permanently altered for mounting.

a distinctive collector’s piece at the intersection of french cinema history, early twentieth-century character sculpture and antique commercial display design.

its unusual expression and finely preserved polychromy make it an outstanding decorative accent for a sophisticated interior or curated cabinet of curiosities.

the hat appearing in a styled photograph is not included. See less