Rare Bronze Death Mask of Soviet Icon Vysotsky to Be Auctioned in Monaco

A bronze reproduction of the death mask of Soviet singer-songwriter and actor Vladimir Vysotsky is set to be auctioned in Monaco next week, as reported by the international auction house Hermitage Fine Art.

This item is included in a collection of over 200 pieces of Russian and Eastern European art from the 19th century. The auction will take place both in person and online next Tuesday.

The bronze piece originates from the estate of Vysotsky’s widow, French actress Marina Vlady. It is appraised at a value between 100,000 and 120,000 euros (approximately $115,700 to $138,800).

The original plaster mask was crafted by Soviet sculptor Yury Vasilyev, with oversight from Vlady, on the day Vysotsky passed away, July 25, 1980. It is known that two additional bronze casts were produced from this original plaster mask.

In her memoir published in 2005, Vlady mentioned that she had invited “a sculptor friend” to create a lasting likeness of her husband.

«Some consider this tradition unsettling, while others are taken aback by the sight of such an object on display,” she wrote, noting Vysotsky’s own ownership of poet Alexander Pushkin’s death mask.

Vysotsky, who died at the age of 42 after battling alcoholism, became a cultural icon in the Soviet Union for his raw and poignant songs about freedom and everyday life, as well as his celebrated performances in theater and film. His deep voice and cutting lyrics still deeply resonate in Russia, long after his passing.