Interesting and Rare C19th Plaster Phrenology Head by A.l Vago .

Interesting and rare C19th plaster phrenology head by A.L Vago .

Superbly and atmospherically patinated phrenology head retaining its original printed paper labels mapping out the areas of the brain and skull .

Derived from the theories of the idiosyncratic Viennese physician Frank Joseph Gall (1758-1828) , phrenology was a faculty psychology theory of brain and science and of character reading. It claimed the ‘senses of the mind’ determined the shape of the brain and skull.

Ambrose Lewis Vago was born in London, the son of an Italian figure maker . He wrote the book of “Orthodox Phrenology “ , and practised as a plaster head modeller and phrenologist .

Many doctors’ surgeries of the period were furnished with such busts , and Vago considered a physician’s medical practice was incomplete without the presence of one.

The bust study has suffered an historic break and sustained damage across the neck area , but arguably acceptable as an authentic example and is presented without compromising restoration.

A rare and mysterious collectible with great presence and integrity.

Incised on the rear “Published by A. L.Vago London” . The front with a later shallow graffiti name of a previous owner .

H 6”

W 4”

D 4”

England, London c.1870

Established in the Cathedral City of Worcester for over 40 years ,M.Lees&Sons , run by Michael Lees ,have been dealing with public and trade from show-rooms in an early Georgian town-house. We aim to provide a straight-forward approach to our business and build lasting relationships with our customers. As members of the 'London and Provincial Antique Dealers Association' , we provide full descriptive details , date ,authenticity and any available provenance ,with full disclosure of any restoration or repair which may have taken place .

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