Lot 133
  • 133

Sir Jacob Epstein

Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 GBP
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Description

  • Sir Jacob Epstein
  • Second Portrait of George Bernard Shaw
  • signed

  • bronze
  • height (excluding base): 45.5cm.; 18in.
  • Conceived in 1934.

Provenance

Mr Matthew Fox
Yolande Betbeze Fox, from whom acquired by Mr Sol Entin circa 1964, and thence by descent to the present owner

Literature

Jacob Epstein, Let There Be Sculpture: An Autobiography, Michael Joseph Ltd, London, 1940, pp.99-101;
R. Black, The Art of Jacob Epstein, World Publishing Company, New York, 1942, cat. no.205, illustrated pl.41 (another cast);
Jacob Epstein, Epstein: An Autobiography, Hulton, London, 1955, pp.81-83, illustrated opposite p.74 (another cast);
Richard Buckle, Jacob Epstein Sculptor, Faber and Faber, London, 1963, pp.210-11, illustrated pl.323 (another cast);
E. P. and B. A. Schinman, Jacob Epstein. A Catalogue of the Collection of Edward P. Schinman, Fairleigh Dickinson University Press, New Jersey, 1970, illustrated p.50 (another cast);
Evelyn Silber, The Sculpture of Epstein, Phaidon Press, Oxford, 1986, p.178, cat. no.253, illustrated (another cast).

Condition

Dirt has gathered in some of the crevices. Otherwise the work appears in good overall condition. Held on a black stone base. Please call the department on 0207 293 6424 if you have any questions about the present work.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

On the portrait of Bernard Shaw, Epstein wrote: 'I think that there are in it elements so subtle that they would be difficult to explain. Shaw sat on condition that I was commissioned to do the work. He thought I ought to benefit materially and not just do his bust for its own sake... Shaw sat with exemplary patience and even eagerness. He walked to my studio every day, and was punctual and conscientious. He wise cracked of course' (Richard Buckle, op. cit., p.210).