Wax model for a portrait of King George IV (1762–1830) 1820

This wax model of King George IV was made by Benedetto Pistrucci sometime in the late 18th or early 19th century. Wax is a fascinating material. Its softness allows for incredible detail, capturing the likeness of a person with great accuracy. Look closely, and you can see the texture of the king's hair, the folds of his clothing, and the subtle expression on his face. But wax is also fragile, which imbues the portrait with a sense of vulnerability. You can see the grid marked on the dark background, which served as a guide for the artist. Pistrucci was a master of glyptics, the art of carving gemstones, and wax models like this one were often made as preparatory studies for larger works in more durable materials. This wax model gives us a glimpse into the artist's process, and a reminder of the importance of material and making in understanding the full meaning of this artwork. It challenges the traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.