Alexander Munro

Raleigh Trevelyan (1923-2014)

Overall the condition of the plaster is very good, with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There is some rubbing or minor scratching to the tip of the nose. There is some wear to the gilding. There are sheets of linen to the plaster on the reverse, which is slightly loose in areas. The frame is in good condition, with stable splitting to the wood consistent with the material, including two slightly open splits at the front at the bottom, and a stable open split to the top of the frame towards the back. There is an open but stable joint to the front edge at the top right. There are several nicks and some further minor splitting to the frame.
"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."

This relief is the original plaster model for Alexander Munro's roundel with a bust of Pauline Trevelyan at Wallington, Northumberland (circa 1956). Lady Trevelyan was an important patron of Munro, and is believed to have put him in contact with the industrialist Sir William Armstrong, the owner of Cragside, also in Northumberland.

RELATED LITERATURE
K. Macdonald, 'Alexander Munro. Pre-Raphaelite Associate', B. Read and J. Barnes, Pre-Raphaelite Sculpture. Nature and Imagination in British Sculpture 1848-1914, exh. cat. Matthiesen Gallery, London, and Birmingham City Museum and Art Gallery, London, 1991, pp. 62, 64