A remarkable piece of mid-century American history — this is an original 1955 Albert Schweitzer bust by Leo Cherne, signed and dated on the neck ©1955 Leo Cherne. Cast in a rich bronze-finish patina on a solid wood plinth, this is an exceptional find for collectors of American sculpture, presidential-era art, or vintage intellectual décor.
Why this piece matters:
Leo Cherne (1912–1999) was not just a sculptor — he was a renowned economist, attorney, humanitarian, and advisor to nine U.S. presidents. His Albert Schweitzer bust was exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution, and his JFK portrait sculpture is held in the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. This is genuine mid-century art with museum provenance and legacy.
Details:
∙ Artist: Leo Cherne (American, 1912–1999)
∙ Subject: Albert Schweitzer
∙ Date: 1955 (copyright stamped on neck)
∙ Material: Bronze-finish patinated composite on solid wood base
Measurements
• 7.5” High
• 3” Around
Styling note: Stunning displayed on a stack of vintage books, a mantle, a library shelf, or a home office — it brings a serious, intellectual gravitas to any space.
This piece is in true vintage condition, bearing the gentle marks of time that tell its story. Subtle variations in patina, light surface wear, and natural aging are not flaws, but part of its character — evidence of a life well lived.
At Tributary Collective, we celebrate the story. We believe vintage pieces carry warmth, memory, and authenticity that new items simply cannot replicate. Each mark, tone shift, and softened edge reflects decades of presence and use, adding depth and soul to your space.
Please review photos carefully, as they are part of the description, and feel free to reach out with any questions before purchasing.
A remarkable piece of mid-century American history — this is an original 1955 Albert Schweitzer bust by Leo Cherne, signed and dated on the neck ©1955 Leo Cherne. Cast in a rich bronze-finish patina on a solid wood plinth, this is an exceptional find for collectors of American sculpture, presidential-era art, or vintage intellectual décor.
Why this piece matters:
Leo Cherne (1912–1999) was not just a sculptor — he was a renowned economist, attorney, humanitarian, and advisor to nine U.S. presidents. His Albert Schweitzer bust was exhibited at the Smithsonian Institution, and his JFK portrait sculpture is held in the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, D.C. This is genuine mid-century art with museum provenance and legacy.
Details:
∙ Artist: Leo Cherne (American, 1912–1999)
∙ Subject: Albert Schweitzer
∙ Date: 1955 (copyright stamped on neck)
∙ Material: Bronze-finish patinated composite on solid wood base
Measurements
• 7.5” High
• 3” Around
Styling note: Stunning displayed on a stack of vintage books, a mantle, a library shelf, or a home office — it brings a serious, intellectual gravitas to any space.
This piece is in true vintage condition, bearing the gentle marks of time that tell its story. Subtle variations in patina, light surface wear, and natural aging are not flaws, but part of its character — evidence of a life well lived.
At Tributary Collective, we celebrate the story. We believe vintage pieces carry warmth, memory, and authenticity that new items simply cannot replicate. Each mark, tone shift, and softened edge reflects decades of presence and use, adding depth and soul to your space.
Please review photos carefully, as they are part of the description, and feel free to reach out with any questions before purchasing.
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