Winifred Turner

The collection of Jessica Turner, the artist's sister

The surface of the figure has been recently cleaned and restored. There has been some restoration to the toes. There is a slight line across the back of her hair. There are traces of paint in the crevices.
"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."

This is the original plaster model of Thought, which Winifred Turner exhibited in bronze at the Royal Academy in 1933 (no. 1703). The bronze was purchased with funds from the Chantrey bequest for the Tate Gallery (N04708).  

With her head turned and her legs elegantly crossed, Thought is carefully balanced in taut and balletic pose. Nicholas Penny writes that Winifred Turner was a skilled dancer and had only been held back from professional training by her height. Jessica Turner recalled to Penny that her sister often modelled for her own sculptures, with the aid of a large mirror.

Another plaster model by Turner, entitled Youth, was sold in these rooms on 2^nd June 2009 for £46,850.

RELATED LITERATURE
N. Penny, Alfred and Winifred Turner, ex. cat. Ashmolean Museum, Oxford, 1998, fig. 22