Pierre-Jean David of Angers (sculptor) 

Mr Loudon remarked that ‘Whenever possible, I aim to contribute to The greatest happiness of the greatest number. It is puzzling that governments do not do the same.’ This is a quote from The Claudians: gardens, landscapes, reason and faith: John Claudius Loudon and Claudius Buchanan, Tom Turner (Kindle, 2024). 

The Artistic Legacy of Pierre-Jean David d'Angers

Born Pierre-Jean David, he was a well known sculptor who made portraits of famous figures of his time. He created the bust of Jeremy Bentham with careful attention to detail, aiming to capture both the physical likeness and the intellectual spirit of the subject. This bust was one of the models for the wax head on the auto-icon of Bentham in the University College London. It is signed and stands on a marble plinth.

David d'Angers and His Iconic Portraits

Pierre-Jean David d'Angers was a pivotal figure in 19th-century sculpture, renowned for his meticulous portrait work and contributions to the art world. His bust of Jeremy Bentham is particularly significant, not only for its artistic merit but also for its role in preserving the likeness of a key intellectual figure. David d'Angers employed a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of his subjects, creating works that captured both physical appearance and personal essence. His portrait of Bentham, which stands on a marble plinth, was crafted with precision and respect, reflecting the sculptor's dedication to both realism and symbolism. This bust has influenced subsequent representations of Bentham, including the famous auto-icon at University College London, and remains a testament to David d'Angers' skill and legacy in portrait sculpture.