Bust

In sculpture, the term "bust" is used to refer to human sculptures and statues that feature only the upper part of the human body, though this is not necessarily so. More often than not, "busts" only display the head, chest and shoulders, and usually not the hands. They are placed on a stand and meant to be durable. Therefore, busts are often made from robust and long-lasting materials like stone, marble, granite, etc. They are often commemorative in nature and, throughout history, have been used as a means for preserving the identity of influential individuals. Busts are therefore almost true replicas of concerned individuals and, as such, often adorn important civic buildings and avenues.

Busts are also used as showpieces and made from clay, porcelain, bone china, etc. Miniature busts are immensely popular, as these do not occupy much space and are generally considered "good looking". Miniature busts and decorative busts are more often than not exact replicas. In some cases these are also highly decorated for greater visible impact. Miniature busts of historical figures like George Washington, Van Gough, Sir Walter Scott, Princess Alexandra, Charles Dickens, Charles Parnell, etc., are also available.