Aluminium bust of Maxim Gorky, 1981 – Soviet-era sculpture from Leningrad, vintage Russian metal art
A striking vintage aluminium bust of the Russian writer and political thinker Maxim Gorky, cast in 1981 by the Leningrad House of Factories (ЛДЗ 81). Gorky’s intense gaze and distinctive hair are captured in a bold, sculptural style typical of late Soviet portrait work.
This solid yet compact piece was likely made for display in schools, libraries, or cultural institutions – the kind of object that once stood proudly on a teacher’s desk or a bookcase beside volumes of classic Soviet literature.
With its silvery metal finish and confident form, it’s both a piece of history and an evocative decorative object that fits beautifully in a modern interior.
Details
- Maker: ЛДЗ (Leningrad House of Factories)
 - Date: 1981 (marked “ЛДЗ 81”)
 - Material: Cast aluminium alloy
 - Origin: USSR
 - Height: approx. [insert your measurement, likely 15–20 cm]
 - Condition: Good vintage condition with light wear consistent with age
 
A finely made, characterful bust that reflects the artistic and cultural life of the late Soviet period.