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Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
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Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury

  • This expertly rendered black bust depicts Mercury, Roman god of commerce
  • The model is after John Flaxman, Jr., celebrated English sculptor, illustrator and designer
  • Flaxman is considered a leading artist in the Neoclassical style in England
  • Black basalt is considered one of Josiah Wedgwood's most revolutionary creations
  • Get complete item description here
$7,850
Item No. 31-4246

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Description
In this expertly rendered black basalt bust, Mercury, the fleet-footed Roman god of commerce, communication and transport, is depicted in a winged helmet on a waisted circular socle. Turned to the left, his profile is confident and youthful. This model is after John Flaxman Jr., a celebrated English sculptor, illustrator and designer, considered a leading artist in the Neoclassical style in England. The virtuosic treatment of Mercury's wavy mane is a testament to Flaxman's artistry. . .
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In this expertly rendered black basalt bust, Mercury, the fleet-footed Roman god of commerce, communication and transport, is depicted in a winged helmet on a waisted circular socle. Turned to the left, his profile is confident and youthful. This model is after John Flaxman Jr., a celebrated English sculptor, illustrator and designer, considered a leading artist in the Neoclassical style in England. The virtuosic treatment of Mercury's wavy mane is a testament to Flaxman's artistry and Wedgwood's remarkable skill as a sculptor.

This 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 bust.

Impressed uppercase mark on back and socle.

19th Century

11 1/8" wide x 10 1/4" deep x 17 1/2“ high
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Wedgwood Black Basalt Bust of Mercury
Maker: Wedgwood
Period: 19th Century
Origin: England
Type: Figurines/Statuettes
Style: Basalt
Depth: 10.25 in. (26.04 cm)
Width: 11.13 in. (28.26 cm)
Height: 17.5 in. (44.45 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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