George Washington American President Portrait Bust by Houdon White Finish 11H

Plaster White, Presidential Calm: The White Washington Bust

This white Washington bust recalls the plaster life mask that Jean-Antoine Houdon took of Washington in 1785. It stands 11 in high, including its base, in cast resin with a clean white finish.

The pale surface recalls the plaster casts that sculptors made in the studio. This Houdon Washington portrait follows that likeness. A white Washington bust like this keeps that studio feel.

Product Details

• Material: Cast resin
• Finish: White
• Dimensions: 11 in H x 7 in W x 5 in D, including base
• Base alone: 6 in W x 4.5 in D x 1.75 in H
• Weight: 4.5 lbs
• Origin: Made in USA
• Style: White presidential bust
• Product number: 314W

Why White Suits Washington

Houdon worked in clay and plaster before any marble or bronze. The life mask he took of Washington is itself a plaster cast.

Washington lay still with his face coated in grease and wet plaster. Straws in his nose let him breathe.

A Statue for Virginia

Virginia wanted a statue of its famous son for the State Capitol. Thomas Jefferson and Benjamin Franklin arranged for Houdon to make it.

Houdon reached Mount Vernon on October 2, 1785, and stayed about two weeks. Many art historians call his work the most authentic rendering of Washington. The white presidential bust and the Houdon Washington portrait share that source.

This George Washington desk sculpture belongs with the American Presidents Collection. Few white presidential bust designs have a clearer source.

Display and Care

At 4.5 lbs, the white Washington bust suits a desk, shelf, or bookcase. White shows dust, so wipe the George Washington desk sculpture with a soft dry cloth. Keep it away from strong sun.

Jean-Antoine Houdon in Brief

Houdon was the leading French portrait sculptor of his day. A white presidential bust after his Washington keeps the quiet dignity of the original.

For More Reading from the Web

• Follow Houdon's two weeks at Mount Vernon, from life mask to the clay bust Washington kept. Jean-Antoine Houdon - George Washington's Mount Vernon
• See how the 1785 life mask was made, straws and all, at the Morgan Library. George Washington Life Mask - The Morgan Library and Museum