A RARE GEORGE III LEAD FIGURE OF MINERVA...

A RARE GEORGE III LEAD FIGURE OF MINERVA

ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN CHEERE (1709-1787), C.1760-70

the classical goddess wearing a helmet decorated with scallop shells, later mounted on a stone plinth

89cm high, 77cm deep, 70cm wide (the figure), 184cm high, 88cm wide (overall)

Catalogue Note

John Cheere produced a selection of large scale public sculptures including William III in St James' Square, London, and George II for St Helier in Jersey. However, he is probably best know for producing a wide range of smaller scale lead figures for use in domestic settings. These are often based on classical Greek and Roman sculptures, as in this lot, or follow rural or pastoral themes.