FDA-Sc.250-2026
Parts
Object number
FDA-Sc.250-2026
Object type
Identification
Title
Dream of the Rood
Title Type
assigned by artist
Description
An abstract figure in relief facing a crucifix, with a textured background
Comments
Sculpture and poetry came together in this powerful evocation of the famous Anglo-Saxon poem inscribed in runic letters on the Ruthwell cross in Dumfriesshire. Merchant chooses the moment when “Christ ascends his cross”, embracing it with both arms. This is one of Merchant’s first explorations of the crucifixion theme and reflects his interest in Celtic Christian sculpture, particularly the cross at Llanbadaru Fawr. Once he had seen that primitive evocation of the crucifixion he determined “that every figure of mine shall unite the Cross and the Crucified as one figure”.
Description
Dimensions
height (actual size): 400mm
width (actual size): 300mm
depth (actual size): 60mm
width (actual size): 300mm
depth (actual size): 60mm
Inscription
Lettered sticker, on verso: ‘A LIFE’S WORK / (Moelwyn Merchant) / Clywd Exhibition Services / 35 “Dream of the Rood”
Materials & techniques note
Bronze
Production
Person
Merchant, Moelwyn, 1913 - 1997 (Artist)
Date
late 1970s
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Collection of the artist; by whom presented to Eton College in 1988, with continual additions presented until 1997
Exhibited: ‘A Life’s Work’, touring exhibition, 1984-1986 (catalogue number x); ‘Sculptor and Poet’, College Library, Eton College, 1998 (catalogue number 11)
Exhibited: ‘A Life’s Work’, touring exhibition, 1984-1986 (catalogue number x); ‘Sculptor and Poet’, College Library, Eton College, 1998 (catalogue number 11)
