L13231

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Lot 150
  • 150

Alexander Munro

Estimate
8,000 - 12,000 GBP
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Description

  • Alexander Munro
  • Sabrina
  • plaster, in a velvet-lined wood frame

Condition

Overall the condition of the plaster is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. It is possible, though not obvious that, that the surface may have had a new wash applied at some point. There is some wear to the reeds.
"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

Sabrina fair
Listen where thou art sitting
Under the glassie, cool, translucent wave,
In twisted braids of Lillies knitting
The loose train of thy amber-dropping hair

John Milton, Comus, 1634

Sabrina has been identified alternatively as a nymph, mermaid, and goddess of the Severn river. Inspired by Milton's poem, Munro set out to capture the nymph in an oval marble relief, framed by serpentine marble. A marble version was carved circa 1860 and is now in the collection of the Ackland Art Museum, North Carolina, USA. The small variations in the present relief suggest that it may have been a model. Munro also collaborated with the French artist Clément Massier to produce the model in terracotta. These versions equally vary from this plaster example.

RELATED LITERATURE
B. Read and J. Barnes, Pre-Raphaelite Sculpture. Nature and Imagination in British Sculpture 1848-1914, London, 1991, p.57