Bronze Bust Of An Elderly Voltaire – After Houdon – 19th Century

After Jean-Antoine Houdon (1741–1828)
Elderly Voltaire

A charming small bronze bust with a brown medal-like patina depicting an elderly Voltaire, his face slightly turned, his hair held back by a headband, and his shoulders draped in the classical style.

This depiction is inspired by the famous portraits of Voltaire created by Jean-Antoine Houdon in the late 1770s.

Houdon met the philosopher in 1778, during his triumphant return to Paris, a few weeks before his death. He then created several portraits that were immensely successful and helped preserve for posterity the features of the great Enlightenment writer.

The sculptor opted for a particularly vivid depiction, capturing the philosopher’s age-marked features, penetrating gaze, and mischievous expression.

Bronze cast with medal patina, late 19th–early 20th century.

Dimensions: H. 10 × W. 5.5 × D. 5.5 cm.