Bust of Napoleon I as Hermes by Chaudet, circa 1808, First Empire, Carrara marble, France.

Bust of Napoleon I as Hermes, after Antoine-Denis Chaudet, circa 1808, First Empire, Carrara marble, France. A neoclassical bust of Emperor Napoleon I, modeled after the celebrated depiction by Antoine-Denis Chaudet, portraying Napoleon in the idealized manner of a Roman god. Executed in finely carved Carrara marble, the bust is presented in the image of a Hermes, emphasizing nobility and intellectual poise. The sculpture retains excellent stylistic fidelity to early 19th-century Empire aesthetics, with precise facial modeling and a commanding expression. PROVENANCE: This example comes from the Bordeaux family of an imperial general, lending it notable provenance. Condition: The bust exhibits age-consistent wear. The marble surface shows natural patination, contributing to its authentic period character. An elegant and historically significant tribute to one of Europe’s most iconic rulers. Minor losses, see photo. Dimensions: 60x33x26 cm.