22 Inches High x 14 Inches Wide x 7.5 Inches Deep

American sculptor Richard Saltonstall Greenough (1819-1904) created this bust in 1862 in Paris as inscribed on the back of the socle base.

Greenough was one of Boston’s foremost neoclassical sculptors in the mid-19th century and younger brother to sculptor Horatio Greenough. His most notable work is the statue of Benjamin Franklin (installed in 1856) situated outside Boston’s Old City Hall; it was the first portrait statue in Boston. Greenough and fellow American sculptor Thomas Ball each created for the pedestal that depict scenes in Franklin’s life.

Greenough’s work was not always in the neoclassical style nor of the content like his brother’s. Greenough’s fondness for contemporary styles and tastes shone through, and his works often display naturalism. An expatriate, he and his wife lived in various cities in Europe, including Paris from 1855 to 1875, during which time he sculpted this work. The current location of the original bust and the identity of the sitter – unless she is an idealized female in the neoclassical style – are unknown. The dress the young lady wears, situated below the shoulders, and her hair, which is down with curls at the ends but held in place on top with a headband, give the female a soft, charming appearance.

Artist: Richard Saltonstall Greenough

Museum: Unknown

Time Period: Modern, 1862

Sources:

Biebuyck, Brunhilde and Meredith Levin. "Richard Saltonstall Greenough, 1819 – 1904." Reid Hall, .

"Richard Saltonstall Greenough (American, 1819–1904)." Boston Athenaeum, .