A mid 19th century gilt bronze sculpture of Jean-Jaques Rousseau, depicting the Enlighted philosopher seated on a stool and wearing 18th century style costume, and with two books to his left, one entitled ‘Contract Social’, apparently unsigned, French, circa 1870.
Condition: Overall very good, the sculpture is in very good condition with no damage or losses to the piece, there is wear to the gilding consistent with age, the piece was once mounted on a socle and has the facility to be so again. Overall the sculpture has a charming appearance and colour.
Jean-Jacques Rousseau (1712-1778) was a Swiss writer, philosopher and composer, born into a Calvinist middle class family in Geneva. His philosophical works influenced Enlightenment thought during the 18th century and contributed to aspects of the French Revolution, as well as modern political and economic ideas. His Du Contract Social was written in 1762.
Dimensions:
Height: 18cm (7”)
Width: 15cm (6”)
Depth: 10cm (4”)