Terracotta Medallion, 1777, Benjamin Franklin By Jean-baptiste Nini.

Terracotta Medallion with Benjamin Franklin Wearing His Famous Beaver Fur Hat 1777 -
Dated to the Revolutionary War Period.
This 4.5 in (115 mm) high relief medallion of Benjamin Franklin is made of terracotta (fired ceramic clay).
It was produced in France by the famous sculptor of the time, Jean-Baptiste Nini (1717/1786) at the height of Ben Franklin's popularity with the French.
Nini made a small variety of terracotta Franklin medallions for sale in France and America.
This classic variety depicts Franklin wearing his famous beaver fur hat, with the inscription "B. Franklin - American." Signed and dated at the bottom of the bust of Franklin "NINI - 1777" who also added his personal arms.
Very good original condition, note a small chip opposite the "c" of the word American on the right side of the medallion.
A historical clarification, this copy comes from the Aspit of Saint-Amand family , an ancestor of whom had accompanied Lafayette during the American War of Independence.

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