After Michael Rysbrack (1694-1770): An 18th century English marble portrait medallion of Michelangelo Buonarotti

Weathered, 35.5cm high - Sold for £1,600 plus Premium and tax

Provenance: Purchased from Christies South Kensington 26.2.97 lot 792, London.

Note : It is well known that Rysbrack greatly admired Michelangelo and possessed models of his work. The head of the present bust is perhaps inspired by the bust Daniel da Volterra created from a death mask for the artist's tomb in 1565; which remains in Santa Croce, Florence. The distinctive high and well pronounced cheek bones, heavily lidded eyes and curly hair and beard can be seen in both pieces.
Mrs Webb in her 'Life of Rysbrack', London 1954 refers to George Vertue's notebook which lists a missing 'Michal Angelo', but does not elaborate as to whether this is a relief, a bust or a figure in the round.
A terracotta figure of Michelangelo was sold at Sothebys on 12.12.85 which was also attributed to Rysbrack on the basis of comparison of manufacture and the style of his figures of Inigo Jones and Palladio; and the present marble can be compared to his marble relief busts of Ben johnson and Inigo Jones.

Related Literature: M.J.H. Liversidge, 'Two portait medallions of Michael Rysbrack', Burlington Magazine, December 1990.

Bonhams. Early European Works of Art and Sculpture, including The Avery Collection, Knightsbridge Furniture, Carpets and Rugs, 11 Dec 2007. Knightsbridge