Description
In the late 18th century Benjamin Franklin was a popular celebrity, especially in France. This resulted in a demand for his likeness that was met by a host of images in various materials and sizes - from costly marble to cheap prints.
This modelled bust is on a marble base.
Provenance
Comte Breza, Mielec, Poland [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; I. Montaigna, Paris [see receipt dated Paris, 19 Janvier 1907]; George A. Lucas [date and mode of acquisiton unknown] [see letter from Lucas, Nov. 20, 1906 and Walters-Lucas Account Book, Jan. 19, 1907]; Henry Walters, Baltimore, 1906 [mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest.
