Etienne Maurice Falconet

Happy Birthday Etienne Maurice Falconet!! This French sculptor was born today in 1716. After being accepted into the Academy in 1744, Falconet was made director of sculpture in 1757. In that capacity he oversaw the creation of sculpture, many from his own models. In 1766 he began his masterpiece, in Russia, a tribute to Peter the Great. This was a bronze equestrian with the horse  rearing up on hind legs, displaying amazing balance. Falconet was also a writer, expressing his opinions on sculpture.