Sculpture - The Thinker , Michel - Ange (1475–1564) / F. Barbedienne Foundry - Bronze

A majestic and imposing bronze medal with a brown patina , depicting "Lorenzo II de Medici" , Duke of Urbino , known as "The Magnificent" , cast in the 19th century by the foundryman Ferdinand Barbedienne .
The work is traditionally known as "Il Pensieroso" , "The Thinker".
The sculpture is modeled after Michelangelo’s famous marble sculpture , created between 1526 and 1534 for the tomb of Lorenzo II de’ Medici , located in the Sagrestia Nuova of the Basilica of San Lorenzo in Florence .
As both a family patriarch , a political leader , and a man of the arts and letters , Lorenzo de’ Medici must be portrayed in all that defined his life and greatness .
He must be depicted in accordance with the purest canons of Renaissance Humanism , without pretension or false modesty .
Perfect balance is achieved in this sculpture .
The figure is depicted in a deeply meditative posture , seated on his throne , his body slightly bent forward , his left arm folded, his elbow resting on a casket sealed with the head of a fantastical creature .
His sumptuous box contains the experiences accumulated over a lifetime , far more precious than any material wealth .
His hand rises toward his face , his index finger pressed to his lips , a classic gesture symbolizing silence , secrecy , deep reflection , or introspection .
His legs are crossed at the ankles, a posture that reinforces his stillness , withdrawal , and isolation from the outside world .
The duke wears an imposing , richly ornamented helmet and an antique-style cuirass inspired by Roman emperors , which conforms to the contours of his torso . Beneath the armor , the fine folds of a fabric tunic are visible .
The drapery falling around his seat adds movement and contrast to the scene .
The founder’s signature "F.BARBEDIENNE.FONDEUR" , engraved on the side of the bronze .
Circular stamp reading "Réduction Mécanique 'A. Colas", on the back .
A rare antique sculpture , dating from the second half of the 19th century .
In perfect condition with excellent patina .

Height: 73 cm