L12230

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Lot 122
  • 122

William Hamo Thornycroft

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • William Hamo Thornycroft
  • Devoniensis - Head of a Woman
  • signed and dated: Hamo Thornycroft Sc 1913 and: HT 1913 signed: Hamo Thornycroft [partially legible] inscribed: Miss Jessie Morris and entitled: DEVONIENSIS
  • bronze, mid brown patina on a brown veined marble base

Exhibited

London, Royal Academy of Arts, 1913

Literature

E. Manning, Marble & Bronze - The Art and Life of Hamo Thornycroft, London, 1982, p. 200, no. 60
A. Jarman, Royal Academy Exhibitors 1905 - 1970, vol. IV, London, 1987, p. 142

Condition

Overall the condition of the bronze is very good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small spots of greening to the back. There is a slightly visible original casting joint to the back of the base. There are a few small chips to the marble 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."

Catalogue Note

Devoniensis is a sweetly-scented tea rose, first bred in 1838. The inscription on the bust: Miss Jessie Morris, refers to a friend of the artist from Westfield, New Jersey. It is unclear whether this inscription identifies the sitter or if it is dedication. In 1921 Jessie Morris introduced Thornycroft to the prominent American sociologist and civil rights activist, W. E. B. Du Bois. A letter from Thornycroft inviting Du Bois to visit his studio is in the collection of the University Archives, University of Massachusetts Amherst Libraries.