This bust shows the sculptor at the end of his life when he was plagued by financial troubles.

The head is turned three quarters left, he wears a loose cap and coat with frogged braid. It was formerly considered to be a self-portrait but is now attributed to Joseph Wilton. Roubiliac was one of the most accomplished sculptors working in England in the 18th century. He made his name with his statue of Handel in Vauxhall Gardens in 1737, which was later bought for the V & A with the help of the Art Fund in 1965.

Provenance

Family of Roubiliac. Sold at Roubiliac's death but bought back by his grand-daughter in the mid 19th century.


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