Jeanne Catherine Offhuys in Brussels, Belgium

myminifactory

This is a stunning plaster bust depicting Jeanne Catherine Offhuys, the loving wife of renowned sculptor Gilles-Lambert Godecharle. The provocative display of her breasts and juxtaposition of her innocent face with the bust reveal the deep connection between sitter and sculptor. Gilles-Lambert Godecharle was a prominent Belgian sculptor born on December 2, 1750, in Brussels and passed away on February 24, 1835. He studied under esteemed sculptor Laurent Delvaux, who had an impressive retinue of talented artists, including Godecharle. Godecharle's exceptional talent earned him a prestigious stipend from Empress Maria Theresa, allowing him to travel extensively for his studies in Paris and Rome. His artistic skills were recognized by Napoleon and William I of the Netherlands, who awarded him official commissions. One of his most notable public works is the pediment sculptures he created for the Chamber of Representatives and the Senate of the Austrian Netherlands, now known as the Belgian Federal Parliament in Brussels. These masterpieces, completed between 1781-82, are considered some of his finest works and have been preserved at the Musées royaux des Beaux-Arts de Belgique in Brussels. Godecharle's son, Napoleon Godecharle, left a lasting legacy by bequeathing a significant portion of the family fortune to the City of Brussels. This generous donation enabled the establishment of the Prix Godecharle, an esteemed award for painters, sculptors, and architects. This remarkable object is part of "Scan The World," a groundbreaking initiative launched by MyMiniFactory. Through this non-profit project, we aim to create a comprehensive digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe, making them accessible to everyone for free. Scan The World is an open-source community effort, and if you have fascinating items to share, please email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can contribute.