September 5-7, 2023 Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 9/6/2023
Relief molded terracotta portrait of Founding Father Benjamin Franklin, signed and dated on bottom of bust "NINI / F1777 / 1777". Jean-Baptiste Nini (Italian, 1717-1786) is well known for his terracotta medallion portraits of leading 18th-century figures, including Benjamin Franklin. This portrait is one of the earliest likenesses of Franklin, here pictured in his iconic fur hat, to circulate in France as he served there as ambassador, winning favor and support for the fledgling American cause. It was originally commissioned by Jacques-Donatien Le Ray, a key French shipping magnate who assisted Franklin in his role as ambassador, and assisted the American cause by sponsoring ship loads of military supplies. Often considered one of the finest likenesses of Franklin, this terra cotta image became very popular and was reproduced in various forms and sizes for circulation. This original 4 - 5/8" medallion is attractively displayed in an early black painted round molded frame. CONDITION: Very fine condition. The image is sharp and crisp, showing few minor hen-peck nicks. The frame has one split with some light surface wear but remains very attractive overall.
Item Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 2"