19th-Century Plaster Bust of Venus | Likely After Canova’s Venus Italica

Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty, turns her head gently to one side, with waves of hair swept back and curls gathered above her forehead. This 19th-century plaster bust is likely modeled after Antonio Canova’s Venus Italica. Canova received the commission after the ancient Medici Venus was taken to France in 1802, and his own interpretation arrived in Florence in 1812. The marble is now at the Pitti Palace. In this bust, the matte white plaster brings out the curve of her cheek and the depth of the curls, especially when seen in profile.

Details

• Subject — Venus, the Roman goddess of love and beauty
• Model — Likely after Antonio Canova’s Venus Italica
• Era — 19th century
• Style — Neoclassical
• Material — White cast plaster with a round pedestal base
• Origin and cast maker — Unconfirmed
• Condition — Great antique condition overall, with age-related surface scratches, most visible along the cheek

Measurements: 12" L x 21" H x 11" D