FDA-Sc.251-2026
Parts
Object number
FDA-Sc.251-2026
Object type
Identification
Title
Torso
Title Type
assigned by artist
Description
Abstract tapered torso, with the point sitting on the base; coloured brown and white stone
Comments
This torso was completed in 1980 and is one of a number of male torsos sculpted by Merchant. His first in Portsoy marble in 1967 was the sculpture he showed to Barbara Hepworth which received her approval. In the series Merchant clarified his own ideas about the transitory nature of man, expressed by an awareness of man’s insecure balance as he stands erect. The torso is poised on a point, dowelled to a heavy base. This sculpture. With its sensitive carving and pleasing colour, was given to Eton by Merchant in 1990 to commemorate the 550th anniversary of the founding of the school.
Description
Dimensions
height (actual size): 430mm
depth (actual size): 225mm
depth (actual size): 160mm
depth (actual size): 225mm
depth (actual size): 160mm
Materials & techniques note
Alabaster
Production
Person
Merchant, Moelwyn, 1913 - 1997 (Artist)
Date
1980
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Collection of the artist; by whom presented to Eton College in 1990 to commemorate the 550th anniversary of the founding of the school
Exhibited: 'Moelwyn Merchant Sculpture’, University of Stirling, 1981; ‘Moelwyn Merchant’, possibly Drawing Schools, 1993 (catalogue number x); ‘Sculptor and Poet’, College Library, Eton College, 1998 (catalogue number 1)
Exhibited: 'Moelwyn Merchant Sculpture’, University of Stirling, 1981; ‘Moelwyn Merchant’, possibly Drawing Schools, 1993 (catalogue number x); ‘Sculptor and Poet’, College Library, Eton College, 1998 (catalogue number 1)
