Miniature Porcelain Bust of Albert on a Wood & Bronze Pedestal

A finely modeled miniature portrait, this white porcelain bust depicts a gentleman in military dress, complete with a high collar, double-breasted coat, and fringed epaulettes. The name “Albert” is molded beneath the portrait, giving the small sculpture a personal historical identity while leaving the sitter’s precise title unconfirmed.

The matte porcelain surface softly catches the details of his hair, facial features, and uniform. Its pale finish contrasts beautifully with the warm bronze pedestal and dark wooden base, creating a layered presentation with considerable presence for its scale.

Small portrait busts brought the subjects and conventions of public sculpture into domestic interiors. Here, the elevated pedestal and decorative feet give the miniature the formality of a much larger monument.

Beautiful tucked among books, displayed beside a framed portrait, or added to a collection of miniature sculpture, this piece offers a thoughtful combination of porcelain detail and richly contrasting materials.

Details

• Subject: Military portrait identified by the inscription “Albert”; exact sitter unconfirmed
• Origin: Undetermined; European
• Period: Probably late 19th to early 20th century; provisional
• Materials: Porcelain bust on a wood and bronze base, as supplied
• Finish: Matte, biscuit-like porcelain surface
• Inscription: “Albert” beneath the portrait
• Marks: Small impressed numerals on the reverse; no confirmed maker’s mark
• Base: Turned bronze pedestal above a dark wooden plinth with decorative metal feet
• Condition: Visible surface discoloration and marks to the porcelain, patina to the metal, and wear to the dark base finish. Overall expected and good condition for its age.

Measurements: 3" Diameter Base x 6" H