The above female head representation among flower garlands is a predilect theme in the late Victorian decorative arts, including the Art Nouveau current, that have so many references to fairies and paradisiac gardens full of flowers. It was best personified by the actress Sarah Bernhardt, posing in flower adorned costumes and décor, immortalised by the painter Alphonse Mucha. From here the motif was adopted and adapted to many instances and circumstances, such as this Bucharest mascaron, which probably depicts a local Fin de Siècle beauty.
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I endeavor through this series of daily articles to inspire appreciation of the historic houses of Romania, a virtually undiscovered, but fascinating chapter of European architectural history and heritage.
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If you plan acquiring a historic property in Romania or start a renovation project, I would be delighted to advice you in sourcing the property, specialist research, planning permissions, restoration project management, etc. To discuss your particular plan please see my contact details in the Contact page of this weblog.
Valentin Mandache, architectural historian 