Rare Ellis Wilson African American Bust Sculpture

Ellis Wilson (American/New York, 1899-1977), "Bust of a Man”, carved plaster, signed on truncation, approx. h. 5.5 in. The is a very rare and magnificent head sculpture created and signed by famed African American artist Ellis Wilson. The sculpture looks like it was made from a block of plaster and carved in the style of a man very characteristic of and depicted in Eliis Wilson's more commonly found paintings. The back of the sculpture has been carved with Ellis Wilson's name in a manner consistent with how he signed his paintings. The bust is undated as is common with his paintings. The head sculpture measures approximately 5.5 inches tall and about 3 inches wide when viewed from the front. I was informed by a foremost expert on Ellis Wilson, that he was aware of only 2 other examples of sculptures/busts created by Ellis Wilson. Both are in the Schomburg Center/Museum in Harlem. The bust has signs of light surface wear, dirt/smudges and scratches and small chipping in the plaster, but nothing that really detracts from the overall beauty of this work of art. The underside of the base has a small chipping as well, but is not noticeable when the bust is placed on the table (see photos for details of condition). Sounds worse than it is, but I want to make sure I disclose as much as possible for what may be a bust from early in his career and clearly shows signs of handling. This is a rare opportunity to own a unique sculpture by Ellis Wilson. A perfect pairing for your Ellis Wilson painting - perhaps a painting with a similar looking gentleman! Another bust or sculpture may never surface in the open public market during your lifetime. Don't miss this opportunity to round out your art collection with this very unique item that your fellow collectors will be envious of.