Wedgwood Black Basalt Library Bust of Mercury

This model is attributed to John Flaxman, Jr., a celebrated English sculptor, illustrator and designer, considered a leading artist in the Neoclassical style in England. 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. 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