Roman Busts, Set of 3 Ormolu Mounted Models of Busts of Caesar on Marble Bases

Description

This distinguished set of three Neoclassical Roman busts, dating to the late 19th century, represents Roman Caesars in ceremonial military outfits. Each figure is modeled with an individualized, clean-shaven countenance and short, carefully delineated hair above a broad cuirassed torso. The armor is enriched with scale-patterned surfaces, molded borders, Lion masks, medallions, and scrolling classical ornament, while deeply folded mantles are drawn across the shoulders to create a balanced and imposing silhouette. The busts are executed in ormolu with hand carved heads and details, creating a striking contrast against the warm, lustrous gilding of the armor and drapery. Although conceived as a unified ensemble, each model differs subtly in facial type, breastplate decoration, and arrangement of the pose. The figures rise from shaped neck blocks onto molded, hand-chiseled ormolu socles with spreading circular feet. Each is independently mounted on a substantial square marble plinth, two of richly veined black marble and the central example of grey-black marble with pronounced white veining. Produced circa 1880–1900, the group belongs to the nineteenth-century European revival of Neoclassical Roman imperial imagery and the enduring Grand Tour taste for reduced versions of celebrated antique sculpture. Small-scale busts of emperors were displayed in libraries, studies, and cabinets as expressions of classical learning and cultivated collecting. The varied colors, finely cast military details, and strongly figured marble give this set an especially decorative presence, while its coordinated scale and complementary materials allow the three busts to be displayed either as a formal group or individually within a neoclassical or traditionally furnished interior. Sold and priced as a set of three, but could also be purchased individually. Roman, Italy circa late 1800's Dimensions: 7.5" Height 4" Width 3" Depth

Details

Dimensions