FDA-Sc.23-2017
Parts
Object number
FDA-Sc.23-2017
Object type
Identification
Title
Sir Robert Walpole
Description
Sculpted bust showing a man in classical robes with necktie and long hair
Comments
'We understand that a bust of Sir Robert Walpole is likely to be added in a short time to this valuable and interesting collection of the heads of Eton worthies.'
[London Evening Standard, Monday, 29 November 1852]
'I have — and who of our Eton generation would not? — a soft spot for anyone called John Bell. The Bell who carved the not indifferent Robert Walpole [bust] in 1854 was evidently a frightful ass, and a prolific one... Our Walpole, carved in his early thirties, does him credit.'
['Eton Busts' by Oliver Van Oss, Etoniana, No.123, November 29, 1969, p.356]
[London Evening Standard, Monday, 29 November 1852]
'I have — and who of our Eton generation would not? — a soft spot for anyone called John Bell. The Bell who carved the not indifferent Robert Walpole [bust] in 1854 was evidently a frightful ass, and a prolific one... Our Walpole, carved in his early thirties, does him credit.'
['Eton Busts' by Oliver Van Oss, Etoniana, No.123, November 29, 1969, p.356]
Other number
FDA-A.123-2010
Description
Content (person)
Walpole, Robert, 1676 - 1745 (Sitter)
Dimension note
31½in. high
Inscription
Lettered on the wall sconce that supports the bust: 'WALPOLE'
Material
marble
Production
Person
Bell, John, 1811 - 1895 (Sculptor)
Date
1858
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Presented to Eton College, probably by Horatio Walpole, 3rd Earl of Orford, in 1858
References
• Gunnis, R., Dictionary of British Scultpors 1660-1851 (Another is listed p.49 as at St. Stephen's Hall)
