Head of a Cherub

Called Head of a Cherub, this sculpture may represent either a classical putto, religious angel, or secular Cupid, all usually depicted as young boys with wings, though his solemn, contemplative gaze suggests his identity as an angel. Vassé’s work combines an interest in Classical Antiquity with a sense of charm and delicacy typical of 18th-century French sculpture. This example, signed and dated by the artist, is remarkable for the freshness of the modeling and the fine and lively rendering of the angel’s hair, wings, and flesh.