#65 • Colonel Harland Sanders Bust by His Daughter, Margaret Sanders, with Original Sculptor's Mold

Part of The Colonel Sanders Artifact Collection (live auction by The Menish Group Auction & Real Estate)

High bid $6,500.00

Status: Sold

    Description Offered here is one of only three known castings of the iconic sculptural portrait of Colonel Harland Sanders, created by his daughter, Margaret Sanders, and accompanied by the original sculptor's mold from which the bust was cast. The sculpture portrays Colonel Sanders in his signature white suit, black string tie, glasses, and neatly groomed goatee, capturing the familiar likeness recognized around the world. Finished in a bronze-tone patina, the bust displays expressive hand-modeled details reflecting its handcrafted origin. Included with the sculpture is the original working mold used in its creation. The survival of both the finished bust and its original mold together is exceptionally rare, preserving not only the completed artwork but also the creative process behind it. Historical Significance This sculptural portrait occupies a unique place in the legacy of Colonel Harland Sanders. Created by Margaret Sanders, the Colonel's daughter, the bust represents a deeply personal artistic tribute by a family member rather than a commercially commissioned likeness. Perhaps even more remarkable, this example is believed to be one of only three castings known to exist. One remains at the gravesite of Colonel and Claudia Sanders at Cave Hill Cemetery in Louisville, Kentucky. A second has long been displayed at the Claudia Sanders Dinner House. This example is the only known casting ever offered for private ownership. The inclusion of the original sculptor's mold further elevates the historical importance of the lot, preserving the very form from which the sculpture was created. Story & Context For decades, this sculpture and its mold remained preserved by the Settle family alongside the Colonel's personal belongings at Blackwood Hall. The image became one of the defining artistic representations of Colonel Sanders and continues to be recognized by visitors to both Cave Hill Cemetery and the Claudia Sanders Dinner House. As a work created by his own daughter, it offers a uniquely intimate interpretation of one of America's most recognizable entrepreneurs. The opportunity to acquire both the finished sculpture and its original sculptor's mold is believed to be unprecedented. Provenance   Preserved by the Settle family at Blackwood Hall following their 1974 acquisition of the Claudia Sanders Dinner House and residence from Colonel and Claudia Sanders. Retained together with the original sculptor's mold for more than fifty years. Condition   The finished bust exhibits expected light surface wear, handling marks, and age-related patina consistent with long-term display. The original sculptor's mold shows age, surface discoloration, stable cracking, and other characteristics consistent with an artist's working mold. Both pieces are offered together in their preserved, as-found condition.