FDA-Sc.30-2017
Parts
Object number
FDA-Sc.30-2017
Object type
Identification
Title
Richard Porson
Description
Sculpted bust of a man, with short hair, clean shaven, in classical drapery
Comments
'Among the busts of distinguished divines and statesmen who were educated at Eton, which have lately been presented to the college, may now be added those of Bishop Pearson (the author of the Exposition of the Creed), and Professor Porson, presented to this ancient institution by the Rev. W. G. Cookesley, one of the assistant masters. They have been admirably executed by Behnes, and are pronounced to be most excellent likenesses. They will be placed in the upper school.'
[Windsor and Eton Express, Saturday, 29 November 1845]
'The Porson [Bust] is based not on the usual Hoppner but on the Kirby portrait, a mezzotint of which hangs on the stairs in Montagu James Schools. It is less lively than the bust in College Library...'
['Eton Busts' by Oliver Van Oss, Etoniana, No.123, November 29, 1969, p.354]
[Windsor and Eton Express, Saturday, 29 November 1845]
'The Porson [Bust] is based not on the usual Hoppner but on the Kirby portrait, a mezzotint of which hangs on the stairs in Montagu James Schools. It is less lively than the bust in College Library...'
['Eton Busts' by Oliver Van Oss, Etoniana, No.123, November 29, 1969, p.354]
Other number
FDA-A.130-2010
Description
Content (person)
Porson, Richard, 1759 - 1808 (Sitter)
Dimension note
28½in. high
Inscription
Lettered on the wall sconce that supports the bust: 'PORSON'
Material
marble
Production
Person
Behnes, William, 1791 - 1864 (Sculptor)
Date
1845
History and association
Object history note
Provenance: Presented to Eton College by Reverend W. G. Cookesley in 1845
Exhibited: Royal Academy, London, 1956
Exhibited: Royal Academy, London, 1956
References
• Gunnis, R., Dictionary of British Scultpors 1660-1851 (p.47)
