Neoclassical Cupid White Marble Bust Sculpture attributed to Thorvaldsen Workshop, 1820s

Description

This exceptional and magnificent white marble bust, was created and sculpted in 1820 circa, by the workshop of Bertel Thorvaldsen … more This exceptional and magnificent white marble bust, was created and sculpted in 1820 circa, by the workshop of Bertel Thorvaldsen (Berthel Thorvaldsen Copenhagen, 1770 - 1844). After a carefully approach and study of the sculpture, it is possible to consider it the preparatory study for the statue Cupid with bow currently preserved in the Thorvaldsen Museum in Copenhagen. The similarities in the softness of the shape and the carefully sculpted curls framing the face allow us to hypothesize that it is precisely the preparatory model of the face for the full-figure Cupid sculpture of the god of Love, Cupid, today in Copenhagen. This important piece showcases an elegant and refined beauty, reflecting the sophisticated talent of Thorvaldsen and it represents the testament of the art of another masterful sculptor, Antonio Canova died in 1822 and Thorvaldsen it is universally recognized his ideal pupil. Born in Copenhagen, the sculptor Bertel Thorvaldsen showcased his artistic talents from a very young age, so much so that he was admitted to the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Denmark at just 11 years old. In 1796 he won a study trip to Rome, where he soon settled down and began a successful career. He returned to Denmark only three times, the second one in 1838, when he was welcomed into his homeland for the construction of the museum named after him. In Rome the sculptor dedicated his entire life to the meticulous study of ancient art and to the search for purity and rigor of forms, becoming one of the greatest exponents of Neoclassicism and counting among his clients the most illustrious personalities of the time, who they recognized him as the ideal heir of Antonio Canova, who died in 1822. The piece is in very good state of maintenance and guaranteed original in every parts. The surface was only cleaned and not restored and it is original. The white marble sculpture has its Certificate of Authenticity. The documents will be shown upon request in case of interest. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution less