BUST OF MARCUS TILLIUS CICERO

Italian, mid-19th century

Carrara white marble on an original plinth
Of very desirable small "library" proportions; unmarked
Closely related to the copy after antiquity by Bertel Thorvaldsen (Denmark, 1770-1844)

13 1/4" H x 4 3/4" D x 6 1/8" W

An exquisite small modeling of the bust of the great Roman orator Cicero executed in a solid block of white Carrara marble, it was likely produced in Italy during the second quarter of the 19th century. It nearly identically replicates the example executed by Bertel Thorvaldsen (see Thorvaldsen Museum, object no. A761) in composition, the way the hair is executed to fall across his forehead, the lack of the dimpled chin and placement of facial wrinkles. The work is of a small scale intended for placement most typically in a library or study.

The head is turned slightly to one side with a furrowed brow, compressed mouth, intensely detailed and closely worked hair framing his intense features. The work presents Cicero in a moment of sober reflection.

Cicero, 106 to 43 B.C., was one of the central political and literary figures of the late Roman Republic. He served as lawyer, orator, statesman and philosopher; and his speeches and writings became foundational models for rhetoric, moral philosophy and political thought. His defense of republican government placed him in opposition to Julius Caesar and later Mark Antony, whose power he attacked in the Philippics. Cicero was executed under Mark Antony, who conspired with Octavian and Lepidus among many others during the proscriptions of the Second Triumvirate in 43 B.C.

Condition: Very fine original condition, minor staining and surface wear, tiny edge chips. Ready to place.

ref. 604TPP19Z