7th Nov, 2017 12:00
Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Fearless')
119
[M] A BOXWOOD FIGUREHEAD STUDY OF A UNICORN BY...
A BOXWOOD FIGUREHEAD STUDY OF A UNICORN BY ROBERT SPENCE, CIRCA 1925
full length, depicted prancing forwards, the head with metal pin 'horn' -- 4½in. (11.5cm.) high
Robert Spence (1871-1964) is considered one of the finest model makers and restorers of Admiralty Board Models from the inter-War era. He owned the original model of St. Albans (now with Trinity House, London) of which he made the near-perfect copy located at Greenwich, and restored many others. This carving is strikingly similar to the equestrian head seen on the Naseby model at Greenwich. The famous portrait artist Frederick Elwell depicted Spence in his studio circa 1938 and which is located in the Beverly Art Gallery.
Sold for £347
Estimated at £150 - £250
(inc. buyer's premium of 24%)
A BOXWOOD FIGUREHEAD STUDY OF A UNICORN BY ROBERT SPENCE, CIRCA 1925
full length, depicted prancing forwards, the head with metal pin 'horn' -- 4½in. (11.5cm.) high
Robert Spence (1871-1964) is considered one of the finest model makers and restorers of Admiralty Board Models from the inter-War era. He owned the original model of St. Albans (now with Trinity House, London) of which he made the near-perfect copy located at Greenwich, and restored many others. This carving is strikingly similar to the equestrian head seen on the Naseby model at Greenwich. The famous portrait artist Frederick Elwell depicted Spence in his studio circa 1938 and which is located in the Beverly Art Gallery.
Auction: Maritime and Scientific Models, Instruments & Art ('Fearless'), 7th Nov, 2017
