The two busts do not belong to the original interior design of King Frederick II’s summer palace, built from 1745 to 1747. They replace a similar black portrait pair, also made in polychrome marble, displayed in the Small Gallery since the 19th century but now lost.
The origin of the two busts is not known. Any information that might help clarify their provenance is most appreciated. They were likely made in Italy in the 16th century. The similarity of the figures’ faces and garments suggests that they were designed as pendants from the start or as part of a series. During that period, ancient or classically-inspired portraits frequently served as interior decoration and were placed in wall niches or atop consoles.
Although we do not know how these portraits originated, it can be assumed that real people modelled for them. From the 17th century until well into the 19th century, such busts of Black people were considered popular travel souvenirs for young noblemen who brought them back to their homelands from their grand tours and educational travels. The two figures in the Small Gallery are among numerous depictions of Black people made during an age that expressed European court society’s preference for “exotic” worlds, which is how the African and Asian continents were perceived at the time.
The two portraits are not on display at the moment.
