Fine Antique 19th century French Napoleon III or Victorian era hand finished figural bas relief sculptural icon, a bust of Jesus Christ in chalk or natural gypsum and displayed in an oval ebonized wood & deep convex glass bombe style frame! Fantastic! These reliefs are fascinating because, although they often look hand-carved, the vast majority of French and German examples from the mid-19th century were cast from molds and then hand-finished. The process evolved from techniques used to produce plaster cameos, religious devotional objects, and neoclassical medallions. Many people are surprised by how crisp these pieces are. Fine gypsum can reproduce details down to a fraction of a millimeter. In the 19th century it was common for workshops to cast copies of famous sculptures and cameos that are still difficult to distinguish from carved originals at first glance. Beautifully sculpted work of art depicting what is likely John the Baptist cradling a young Jesus! Deep sculpting set in an oval ebonized frame and protected by the original convex glass. One of a few fabulous old religious pieces we're currently working on have available, be sure to browse a bit while you're with us. Thanks!
Very good condition! It appears that there is wear or a chip to Christ's nose tip and there is a bit of visible dust or darkened spots. Frame shows its age a bit but has the original deeply convex glass. The back has quite a bit of old tape, I'm not sure if there are also nails holding the sculpture/plaque but I'm sure it could be easily removed to clean delicately if you wish. See pictures for measurements.
