There is much folklore surrounding the death mask of the famous French General, but we can surmise that this particular bronze casting is a descendant of the mask given by Napoleon's attendant, Madame Bertrand to one of his physicians, Francesco Antonmarchi who in turn had several copies made. One copy he sent to Lord Burghersh, the British envoy in Florence, asking him to pass it to the famous sculptor, Antonio Canova. Unfortunately Canova died before he had time to use the mask and instead the piece remained with Burghersh. The National Museums Liverpool version, cast by E. Quesnel, is thought to be a descendent of that mask and this mask has the markings from Quesnel etched into the side. Markings on the other side read Dr. F. Antonmarchi and on the front are a seal with the likeness of Napoleon, the date 1833 and Antonmarchi again. The bronze sculpture is in EX condition and with such an incredible history, makes this a museum quality piece and a sterling addition to any historical or fine art collection.