Sculpture of the Day: The Duke of Cumberland, 1770-1820

Wax Relief, 1770-1820
Depicting the Duke of Cumberland
Samuel Percy
The Victoria & Albert Museum

 

During the Eighteenth and Nineteenth centuries, low relief portraits in wax, such as the one pictured above, became quite popular in Britain.  These sculptures were often exhibited at the Royal Academy, the Society of Artists and elsewhere, but most importantly, they found their way into many wealthy homes after having been commissioned by eager patrons who wished for their images to be made more permanent.  These items served not only as records, but as portable mementos. 

This half-length, three quarter relief depicts Ernest Augustus, Duke of Cumberland, in his naval uniform, shown smiling, facing to the right.  It was made between 1770 and 1820 by Samuel Percy (1750-1820), a notable sculpture of the day.