Marie Tussaud, French-English sculptor, founded the Madame Tussauds Wax Museum (b. 1761)

The Life and Legacy of Marie Tussaud

Anna Maria "Marie" Tussaud, born Grosholtz on December 1, 1761, in Strasbourg, France, was an extraordinary artist whose mastery of wax sculpting would lead to the creation of one of the world's most enduring and recognizable attractions: Madame Tussauds. Her life, spanning nearly nine decades until her passing on April 16, 1850, was a testament to artistic skill, entrepreneurial spirit, and resilience through momentous historical events.

Early Life and Apprenticeship in Wax

Marie Tussaud's journey into the intricate world of wax modeling began at a young age. After her father's death before her birth, her mother, Anne-Marie Walder, worked as a housekeeper for Dr. Philippe Curtius in Bern, Switzerland. Curtius, a physician with a unique talent, created anatomical wax models for teaching and, later, portrait models. Moving with Curtius and her mother to Paris around 1765, young Marie was soon immersed in his "Cabinet de Cire" (Cabinet of Wax), where she learned the delicate art of wax sculpture directly from the master. She quickly displayed a remarkable aptitude for the craft, mastering the techniques of molding, casting, and painting to achieve lifelike representations. Her first notable independent work, a sculpture of Voltaire, is believed to have been created in 1777, followed by others including Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Benjamin Franklin, showcasing her growing reputation.

A Witness to History: The French Revolution

The late 18th century brought profound upheaval to France with the onset of the French Revolution. Marie's unique skills placed her in an extraordinary, and sometimes perilous, position. During the Reign of Terror, she was reportedly forced by revolutionaries to create death masks and effigies of prominent victims, often directly from severed heads brought to her from the guillotine. This grim task, including figures like Louis XVI, Marie Antoinette, and Maximillian Robespierre, was essential for cataloging and publicly displaying the fallen, cementing her connection to one of history's most turbulent periods. She even faced imprisonment herself, narrowly escaping the guillotine before the fall of Robespierre.

From Paris to London: A New Beginning

In 1802, Marie Tussaud made a pivotal decision, traveling to England to exhibit her collection of waxworks. This move, initially intended as a touring exhibition, became permanent due to the Napoleonic Wars, which made a return to France increasingly difficult. For over three decades, Marie, often accompanied by her sons, tirelessly toured Great Britain and Ireland, presenting her "Grand Wax Exhibition" to curious audiences. Her collection grew to include historical figures, royalty, and notorious criminals, captivating the public with its blend of education, entertainment, and macabre fascination.

Founding the Iconic Madame Tussauds

After years of touring, Marie Tussaud finally settled her exhibition in London. In 1835, she established her first permanent home for the collection on Baker Street. This marked the official birth of the now-famous Madame Tussauds. The museum quickly became a popular attraction, drawing crowds eager to see lifelike representations of famous personalities from across the globe. Marie herself continued to work on new figures and greet visitors well into her old age, cementing her personal connection to the institution. Her autobiography, memoirs and reminiscences, dictated in 1838, offers valuable insights into her extraordinary life.

Enduring Legacy

Marie Tussaud passed away in London in 1850 at the remarkable age of 88. Her legacy, however, continues to thrive. Madame Tussauds, having moved to its present iconic location on Marylebone Road in 1884, remains a global phenomenon. It has expanded with numerous branches worldwide, from New York to Shanghai, each maintaining the spirit of its founder by showcasing contemporary celebrities, historical icons, and cultural figures. The museum stands as a testament to Marie Tussaud's artistic vision, her resilience, and her ability to create an immersive experience that continues to fascinate and entertain millions around the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions about Marie Tussaud

Who was Marie Tussaud?

Marie Tussaud, born Anna Maria Grosholtz, was a French artist renowned for her exceptional wax sculptures. She is primarily celebrated as the founder of the famous Madame Tussauds wax museum, which originated in London.

Where did Marie Tussaud learn her craft?

She learned the art of wax modeling from Dr. Philippe Curtius, a physician and wax sculptor who employed her mother as a housekeeper. Marie apprenticed under him from a young age in Paris, mastering the intricate techniques required for lifelike wax figures.

What role did she play during the French Revolution?

During the tumultuous French Revolution, Marie Tussaud was compelled to create death masks of prominent figures, including executed royalty and revolutionaries. This grim task involved making molds from the actual severed heads of victims, cementing her unique and macabre connection to this historical period.

When and where did she establish her famous museum?

After extensively touring Great Britain and Ireland with her wax exhibition for over three decades, Marie Tussaud established her first permanent exhibition in London in 1835 on Baker Street. This location marked the official beginning of the Madame Tussauds museum.

Is Madame Tussauds still in operation today?

Yes, Madame Tussauds is very much still in operation today. It has grown into a global brand with numerous popular locations worldwide, including its flagship museum on Marylebone Road in London. It continues to attract millions of visitors annually.