Large Plaster Bust with Terracotta-Effect Patina — after J.J. Caffieri — Early 20th Century

An important antique plaster bust with terracotta patina, depicting Mademoiselle Luzy, the 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 known for his busts of great literary, theatrical and intellectual figures such as Voltaire, Diderot and Rousseau. The bust bears the stamp of the City of Versailles, attesting to institutional provenance and an early edition of quality. The execution stands out for the quality of the modelling, the precision of the detail of the coiffure and the elegance of the drapery typical of Neoclassical style. Very good general condition. Moulded signature 'JJ Caffieri' on the base. Stamp: City of Versailles on the reverse. Early 20th century.