CA0981 Large Alabaster Bust of Napoleon after Chaudet

A rare, large size, early 19th Century French Empire period alabaster bust of Napoleon after Antoine-Denis Chaudet (1763-1810). Fine quality, classic composition, bare headed 'herm form'. Chaudet's original plaster model of this portrait of Napoleon was created in 1799 with the final marble version completed in 1804. Adopted as the official portrait of Napoleon it was widely disseminated throughout the Empire. 1200 versions were known to be carved by the workshop between 1807 and 1809, though many were later destroyed on the orders of the restored Bourbon Monarchy in 1814. Other examples include one that can be seen in the Grand Salon of the Empress’s Apartment at the Château de Compiègne, the Victoria & Albert Museum in London and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Signed Canova on obverse.

H 40cm x W 23.5cm x D 17cm
H 15 3/4" x W 9 1/4" x D 6 3/4"