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Head of a Gaul

Artist
François Rude, French, 1784–1855
Date
c.1833–35
Material
Bronze
made in
Europe
Classification
Metalwork, sculpture
Collection
Modern and Contemporary Art
Current Location
On View, Gallery 205
Dimensions
24 1/2 x 12 3/4 x 12 1/4 in. (62.2 x 32.4 x 31.1 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of J. Lionberger Davis by exchange
Rights
Public Domain
Object Number
124:1987
NOTES
In this dramatic sculpture, the wide-open eyes and animated expression suggest the patriotic fervor of an aged warrior as he sets off for battle. This head is based on the central figure from François Rude’s greatest work, "The Departure of the Volunteers of 1792," created for the façade of the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. Rude’s dynamic approach to the modeling of form is particularly evident in the warrior’s swirling, serpentine hair.
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