Very attractive, bust of early black American academic Benjamin Banneker [1731-1806].
Benjamin Banneker was a naturalist, mathematician, astronomer, and author in 18th century America. He was also, unusually, a land owner. Banneker provides an interesting counter-point to Phillis Wheatley. Both gained literary and popular influence, were published authors, etc., though Banneker was freeborn in Baltimore and Phillis bought by the Wheatley family and gradually emancipated from the family.
A good little snapshot is available here: www.biography.com/scientists/benjamin-banneker
The bust itself was designed by listed American sculptor Inge Hardison [1914-2016] for the Ingenious Americans series produced in 1968.
Rather desirable, an example was offered as part of the Black Art Auction in 2022 with an estimate of $800 - $1,200.
Executed in painted terra cotta plaster, it measures 9 inches in height. Chipping as shown, leading to a rather attractive aged patina. Label on front and bottom, both with losses.
