François Duquesnoy - Limestone Bust - Probably 18th Century

Rare sculpted limestone bust, probably 18th century, after a model by François Duquesnoy (1597-1643). Depicting a young angel with a gentle face, this sculpture captures the finesse and grace characteristic of the works of Duquesnoy, a Flemish Baroque sculptor whose idealized compositions inspired European workshops for a long time. The careful treatment of the features and the finely worked hair testify to mastered craftsmanship. The stone has a deep, ancient patina, revealing its age and authenticity. There is an old restoration of the head, probably carried out in the 19th century: it was reattached to the torso, as shown in the photos. This intervention demonstrates the importance given to the work by its former owners, who were keen to preserve it for future generations. This piece, by its presence and rarity, would easily find its place in a demanding private collection, a refined interior or a classically inspired decor. Condition: Good general condition, with wear and traces of erosion linked to outdoor exposure. Old restoration (head reattached in the 19th century). Provenance: French private collection. Comparative bibliography: Pierre Rosenberg, François Duquesnoy et la sculpture baroque, Éditions RMN, Paris. Louvre catalog, Sculpture department, works by Duquesnoy. Delivery & professional packaging on estimate. International shipping possible.