About this piece
back to topA weathered antique marble bust attributed to the studio of late 18th century/early 19th century sculptor, Joseph Nollekens R.A. Signed ‘J.Nol NS R.A. 1814’ to the reverse, this bust depicts a gentleman gazing to his right and shoulders swathed in drapery on an associated period socle base.
Though the marble is nicely weathered, details of the bust remain distinguishable and intact after more than more than 200 years including the gentleman’s prominent nose, ears and locks of curling hair.
With its timeworn look and classical subject, this antique marble bust will look particularly striking placed on a pedestal in an interior or beneath a weathered alcove in an outdoor setting.
Joseph Nollekens (1737-1823)
Born in London, Joseph Nollekens was one of the finest British sculptors of the late 18th century, building his reputation on the production of Regency portrait busts.
After studying in Rome from 1762-1770, Nollekens returned to Britain with a long list of aristocratic patrons, quickly becoming Britain’s most fashionable sculptor. Some of his most famous subjects included King George III, William Pitt the Younger, Charles James Fox and Benjamin West. In 1770, he was elected a Royal Academician of the Royal Academy of Arts.
