The bust is of the type known as Calliope, the Muse of Epic Poetry. It demonstrates Canova's own opinion of his work, that each version superseded earlier ones in attaining an ideal of perfection. It bears out the importance he attached to creating the integrity of a work in the round, for the work is as satisfying from the back as it is in profile. The work has one of the finest and most fascinating provenances of any Canova in the country.
More information
Title of artwork, date
Ideal Head, 1817
Date supported
1996
Medium and material
Marble
Dimensions
53 cm
Grant
50000
Total cost
746000
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