Italian Grand Tour Antique Bronze Sculpture, Bust of Julius Caesar

Description

A finely cast and beautifully patinated bust of Julius Caesar, it likely originates from Rome circa the third quarter of … more A finely cast and beautifully patinated bust of Julius Caesar, it likely originates from Rome circa the third quarter of the 19th century and rests over its original violet breché marble socle. Likely modeled after the Vatican Museum's Roman Chiaramonti bust, it is an idealized portrait of the leader that was carved for his 42 B.C. deification. The present example features a nuanced surface patina with what appears to be an underlying chemical patination augmented by trace verde pigment under lacquer that has since been waxed over the decades to create a warm and translucent surface throughout. Note the wonderful autumnal highlights that come through in the relief with just a trace of reddish undertones. The surface of the bronze is beautifully cast, chiseled and chased. An excellent presentation.


Measurements: 15" total height (bronze with marble); 10 1/4" H x 3 3/8" D x 5 1/2" W [bronze]; 4 7/8" H x 4" diameter [base] less