Profile Head of Benjamin Franklin

Description Franklin was a hugely popular figure in Paris. Here the Italian sculptor Nini depicts the American in profile wearing a fur cap that had become associated with him from a portrait by Allan Ramsay, painted it in 1766, and which was well known from engravings.

Exhibitions

• Portrait Medallions of Jean-Baptiste Nini. The Walters Art Museum, Baltimore. 2009-2010.

Provenance William T. / Henry Walters Collection, Baltimore [date and mode of acquisition unknown]; Walters Art Museum, 1931, by bequest [from 5 West Mt. Vernon Place].

Inscriptions [Signature] NINI F 1777; [Inscription] B. FRANKLIN. .AMERICAIN

Credit Acquired by William T. or Henry Walters