Ideal Head of a Woman at The Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth, America

myminifactory

The renowned artist Antonio Canova dominated the Neoclassical movement as a sculptor. In late 1779, he traveled to Rome where his exceptional skill and innovative style quickly secured papal commissions and widespread acclaim. Alongside Jacques-Louis David, Canova established a new aesthetic standard based on the refined simplicity, grandeur, and idealized beauty of ancient art. With its sleek profile, smooth skin, and intricate chignon, this "ideal head" exemplifies Canova's mastery of Neoclassicism and his impressive technical skill as a carver. In 1815, after Napoleon's defeat at Waterloo, Pope Pius VII appointed the celebrated artist to negotiate the return of famous paintings and antique statues looted from Italy by Napoleon. At the Allied Conference in Paris that year, Canova was aided by British diplomats, including Charles Long, whose advice led the Prince Regent to make a significant contribution toward transporting the stolen treasures back to Rome. In gratitude for Long's help, Canova gifted him this sculpture. This object is part of "Scan The World", a non-profit initiative launched by MyMiniFactory, which aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe accessible to the public for free. Scan The World is an open-source community effort, and anyone with interesting items can contribute by emailing stw@myminifactory.com to learn how they can help.