July 12-14, 2022 Collectible Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 7/12/2022
Marble portrait bust of Washington copied from that made by Houdon in preparation for the statue of Washington commissioned by the State of Virginia. This has the number"3" deeply engraved on the underside of the base and "Washington" across the lower edge. Houdon actually journeyed from France to Mount Vernon to take Washington's measurements and make a life mask in late 1785. The work was completed and delivered in 1796. Washington is portrayed in a Roman toga in tribute to his civic virtue in laying aside his military command at the end of the war and returning to civil life in the footsteps of the Roman general Cincinnatus. Houdon was widely praised for the accuracy of his likeness. CONDITION: Excellent. Slight rubs on the reverse along the shoulder line.