Final answer:
The wax figure of Dr. Bourdette is distinct from others due to its facial hair, indicating a personal trait or status. This reflects historical artistic practices of creating detailed and lifelike sculptures, where subtle features convey character and individuality.
Step-by-step explanation:
The wax figure of Dr. Bourdette is described as being significantly different from other death masks found at the same archaeological site. Unlike the rounder faces, bulbous eyes, and subtle smiles of other figures, Dr. Bourdette's representation stands out for its distinct facial hair, sporting a mustache and hints of a beard. This unique feature could indicate a personal trait or status of Dr. Bourdette that the sculptor wanted to emphasize, distinguishing him from other figures, much like the realistic depiction of the Bust of an Old Man with deep wrinkles brings forth a lifelike quality.
The individuality seen in Dr. Bourdette's wax figure aligns with the historical practice of creating highly detailed and unique sculptures, like those mentioned by Dr. Beth Harris and Dr. Steven Zucker, where subtle movements around the cheeks and sensitively carved features bring a sense of skin, bone, and expression to life.
Furthermore, the reference to works by artists like French, who crafted clay models and worked closely with other designers such as Henry Bacon, sheds light on the attentive process behind crafting sculptures with such specific and expressive attributes. These practices result in iconic and vivid artworks like the statue of Abraham Lincoln, where every detail, from his chisel marks to the expressive hands, tells a part of the story.