Large plaster bust with terracotta-effect patina — after J. J. Caffieri — Early 20th century

Imposing antique plaster bust with terracotta patina, depicting Mademoiselle Luzy, celebrated 18th-century actress and emblematic figure of the Comédie Française. This model is an edition after the original sculpture by Jean-Jacques Caffieri (1725-1792), the great Neoclassical sculptor renowned for his busts of eminent literary, theatrical and intellectual figures such as Voltaire, Diderot and Rousseau. The bust bears the stamp of the City of Versailles, attesting to an institutional provenance and a fine early edition. The execution is distinguished by the quality of the modelling, the precision of the detail in the coiffure and the elegance of the drapery typical of the Neoclassical style. Very good overall condition. Moulded signature JJ Caffieri on the terrace. Stamp: Ville de Versailles on the reverse. Early 20th century.