Antique French Silvered Bronze Bust of Napoleon I on Gilt Bronze Pedestal

Antique French Silvered Bronze Bust of Napoleon I on Gilt Bronze Pedestal

A striking French bust of Napoleon I, depicted in the classical manner wearing his signature laurel wreath, a reference to the imagery of ancient Roman emperors. The sculpted bust has a beautifully aged silvered finish, creating a dramatic contrast against the warm gilt-bronze pedestal below.

The finely detailed pedestal features bands of laurel and rope molding, giving the piece a wonderful Empire-inspired presence despite its petite scale. The silvering has developed a rich, darkened patina in the recesses that beautifully emphasizes Napoleon’s features and the individual leaves of his wreath.

The laureate image of Napoleon was used extensively in 19th-century French decorative arts, and comparable French bronze busts from the period frequently pair Napoleon with elaborate gilt-bronze bases. 

4.25” high