Lot 172

Adrian de Vries (1556 - 1626) (replica) BUST OF EMPEROR RUDOLPH II.

A modern cast of the famous bust of Rudolf II of Habsburg created by the court sculptor Adrian de Vries. The original of the statue is in the collections of the Imperial Treasury in Vienna. Its artistic quality was considered by the emperor to be equal to the art of painting and sculpture thus gained greater respect in the Rudolfinian era. Adrian de Vries also drew inspiration from the imperial stables and remained in Prague after the emperor's death. The pinnacle of his work was the sculptural decoration of the Wallenstein Garden, which, however, only adorned the garden until 1648, when it was taken away by Swedish troops. Copies are currently placed in the garden.