John Francis Moore (died 1809) English, late 18th century

I. Roscoe, E. Hardy and M. G. Sullivan, A Biographical Dictionary of Sculptors in Britain 1660-1851, New Haven/ London, 2009, p. 849, no. 55 (as an 'Unidentified man in middle age')

Overall the condition of the marble is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few naturally occurring inclusions, a number of which are filled, including to the face and chest. There are a few chips, inlcuding one to the order on the chest and a few to the edges of the drapery. There are also a few chips to the back of the bust at the edges.
"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 fine marble bust finds a possible sitter in the Rt. Hon. Charles Wolfran Cornwall (1735-1789), who was Speaker of the House of Commons from 1780 to 1789. Note the similar arched eyebrows and angular chin seen in the watercolour portrait of Cornwall from the series Speakers of the House of Commons (National Portrait Gallery Reference Negative No. 43130). Moore sculpted Cornwall's funerary monument at St Cross in Winchester (Roscoe, op. cit. p. 848, no. 28).