Original Imperial German Pre-WWI Scarce Bronze Bust of Otto von Bismarck Signed Reinhold Begas - 8 3/4" Tall

Original Item. Only One Available. Otto Eduard Leopold, Prince of Bismarck, Count of Bismarck-Schönhausen, Duke of Lauenburg was a German statesman and diplomat who oversaw the unification of Germany and served as its first chancellor from 1871 to 1890. Bismarck's Realpolitik and firm governance resulted in his being popularly known as the Iron Chancellor (Eiserner Kanzler).

This is a fantastic bronze bust of one of the most prolific Germans in history. During the German Imperial period, he became a hero to German nationalists, who built monuments honoring him. Historians praise him as a visionary who kept the peace in Europe through diplomacy.

The bronze, which dates to the Pre-WWI period, depicts Bismarck in civilian wear, likely around 1885. His iconic bushy mustache is very prominent. The bronze measures roughly 8 3/4” tall. The base is 3 1/2” in diameter. The back of the bust is signed:

R. Begas
Aklien-Cesellsch:
H. Cladenbock & Sohn.

This identifies the sculptor as Reinhold Begas (15 July 1831 – 3 August 1911). 

An outstanding bust of Bismarck, ready for further research and display.