Italian School, Socrates Bust, 1800s, Terracotta

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Important bust representing the famous greek philosopher socrates, made of glazed terracotta.

the sculpture rests on a circular pedestal bearing … Read more Important bust representing the famous greek philosopher socrates, made of glazed terracotta.

the sculpture rests on a circular pedestal bearing the cartouche "socrates": he is depicted facing forward, his shoulders draped in a roman toga.

socrates (470–399 bc) is the founding father of western philosophy. Having never written anything down, this athenian sage spent his days in the agora, engaging in dialogue with his students and the citizens. His most famous maxim is "all i know is that i know nothing."

he was condemned to death for his unsettling ideas; he died a stoic by drinking hemlock.

in the 19th century, his bust was the ultimate symbol of ancient wisdom.

in good overall condition for a piece from the early 19th century: it shows some cracks, chips, and scattered signs of wear. Some old restorations.

height 73 cm

49 x 26 cm
12,250 See less