Early 20th Century Plaster Bust after Michelangelo

A finely cast plaster bust presenting a serene male head with tilted pose and closed eyes, capturing both strength and quiet introspection. The work shows influence from Renaissance sculptural tradition, closely echoing the expressive character studies of Michelangelo.

The bust rests on an integrated block base, the reverse inscribed with “Michel Ang.” and bearing an address — No. 135 North St, Boston, Mass. — linking it to the historic plaster cast workshops that proliferated in New England during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Such casts were often commissioned by museums and academies to bring Old Master works into the hands of artists, scholars, and collectors.

The softly worn surface and time-earned patina add warmth to the white plaster, emphasizing its sculptural contours and lending the piece an authentic, studio-quality presence.

Dimensions:

• Height: 15 in. (38 cm)
• Width: 12 in. (30 cm)
• Depth: 6 in. (15 cm)

Provenance: Boston, Massachusetts; inscribed verso.

Condition: Good, with age-related wear, minor chips, and surface variations consistent with plaster casting. These details contribute to the work’s authenticity and character.