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Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
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Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood

  • This exceptional black basalt figurine by Wedgwood depicts the great philosopher Voltaire
  • The figure is based on marble carved in 1773 by the Swiss sculptor Jean-Claude Rosset
  • A slightly earlier example by Wedgwood is in the collection of the British Museum
  • Get complete item description here
$6,850
Item No. 30-7949

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Description
The philosopher and playwright Voltaire, one of the French Enlightenment's greatest minds, is immortalized in this black basalt portrait figurine by Wedgwood. The intricately detailed figure is placed on a small marble base carved in 1773 by the Swiss sculptor Jean-Claude Rosset, also known as DuPont. Wedgwood issued their first model of the sculpture shortly thereafter in 1778, and an example of these earlier figurines executed in caneware is currently in the collection of the. . .
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The philosopher and playwright Voltaire, one of the French Enlightenment's greatest minds, is immortalized in this black basalt portrait figurine by Wedgwood. The intricately detailed figure is placed on a small marble base carved in 1773 by the Swiss sculptor Jean-Claude Rosset, also known as DuPont. Wedgwood issued their first model of the sculpture shortly thereafter in 1778, and an example of these earlier figurines executed in caneware is currently in the collection of the British Museum (London).

The present work is executed in black basalt, a material that is considered one of Josiah Wedgwood's most revolutionary creations. First developed in the 1760s, this rich, smooth stoneware was especially suitable for casting and was used for a myriad of items, including vases, urns, and remarkable sculptural forms such as this portrait figurine.

Stamped “WEDGWOOD E” and “VOLTAIRE”

19th century

10 7/8" high x 5 1/2" wide x 4" deep
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Black Basalt Figure of Voltaire by Wedgwood
Maker: Wedgwood
Period: 19th Century
Origin: England
Type: Figurines/Statuettes
Style: Basalt
Depth: 4.0 in. (10.16 cm)
Width: 5.5 in. (13.97 cm)
Height: 10.88 in. (27.62 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

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The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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