MARK ANTOKOLSKY (1842-1902)

Nathan the Wise was first created by Antokolsky as part of the bigger composition 'The Inquisition Attacking The Jews Secretly Celebrating Passover', considered by many to be one of the artist’s most dynamic and original works. Modelled as a separate study bust, Nathan the Wise was inspired by the character from the famous 1783 play of the same name, in which the virtuous Jewish merchant is depicted as a symbol of religious tolerance and coexistence.

It is considered as one of the most complex and serious images created by Antokolsky during his academic years, and is a perfect example of the psychological portraits for which he became so famous. A comparable bronze bust of Nathan the Wise was sold at Christie's, London, 11 June 2008, lot 379.