French Bronze Bust of Christ by Auguste Clésinger, Poussielgue-Rusand

A late 19th-century French patinated bronze bust of Jesus Christ wearing the Crown of Thorns, by Jean-Baptiste Auguste Clésinger (1814–1883). The sculpture is signed “J. Clésinger, Rome” and inscribed “Poussielgue-Rusand, Paris.”

Christ is depicted with his head bowed in solemn contemplation beneath intricately modeled thorns. Naturalistic facial features, flowing locks of hair, a finely sculpted beard and the delicate treatment of the Crown of Thorns convey the spiritual emotion of the subject and Clésinger’s treatment of the human form.

The bronze has a warm brown patina and stands on a turned bronze socle above a substantial rouge marble pedestal. It retains its original gilt-metal presentation plaque, inscribed:

1873–1898
À Mr. J. Prolhac, Supérieur
Les Professeurs du Petit Séminaire

The inscription records the presentation of the sculpture to Monsieur J. Prolhac, Superior of the Petit Séminaire, by its professors, commemorating the period from 1873 to 1898.

The inscription “Poussielgue-Rusand, Paris” refers to the distinguished Parisian ecclesiastical goldsmithing establishment, known throughout the 19th century for religious works of art, sacred vessels and liturgical furnishings.

Jean-Baptiste Auguste Clésinger was a distinguished French sculptor celebrated for technical virtuosity, dramatic realism and his treatment of the human figure. His sculptures were exhibited at the Paris Salon and are represented in important museum collections. This bust brings together the expressive modeling, craftsmanship and spiritual presence of French religious sculpture.

Period: 19th century. Date of manufacture: circa 1875.
Materials and techniques: patinated bronze and Rouge Griotte marble, with gilt-metal presentation plaque.
Signature/marks: “J. Clésinger, Rome”; “Poussielgue-Rusand, Paris.”
Dimensions: 10 inches high × 4 inches wide × 4 inches deep (25.4 × 10.16 × 10.16 cm).

Condition: Very good overall, with crisp casting and wear consistent with age and use. Please review photographs.