Artwork Page for Head of a Man

Details / Information for Head of a Man

Head of a Man

1520–1525

circle of Michel Colombe

(French, c. 1430–c. 1513)
Culture
France, 15th century
Medium
marble
Measurements
Overall: 14 x 12.2 x 8 cm (5 1/2 x 4 13/16 x 3 1/8 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of William G. Mather 1921.1003
Public Domain
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Location
110B Late Gothic
Print

Description

The original context and function of these two marble heads are unknown. They are presumed to have been part of a relief sculpture from a château, perhaps in the Loire region, or else from a tomb sculpture. Their style is reminiscent of sculptures produced by Michel Colombe, a prominent sculptor active in the Loire Valley in the service of aristocratic and royal patrons, and may have been carved by a close follower or member of his workshop.
A marble head depicts a man turned toward our right. He has thinning hair with a single tuft at the front and short locks behind his ears. His brow furrows slightly above blank, outlined eyes. His mouth is set firmly with deep creases framing his nostrils. Scattered brownish-orange staining marks the light stone, and the neck ends in an uneven, jagged break.

Head of a Man

1520–1525

Michel Colombe

(French, c. 1430–c. 1513)
France, 15th century

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