item details
NameYehudi Menuhin
ProductionJacob Epstein; sculptor; 1943
Classificationbronzes
Materialsbronze
Materials SummaryBronze
Techniquescasting
DimensionsOverall: 260mm (width), 470mm (height), 202mm (length), 18.9kg (weight)
Registration Number1957-0013-6
Credit linePurchased 1957 with Lindsay Buick Bequest funds
Overview
Yehudi Menuhin (1916–99) was one of the greatest violinists of the 20th century. Here, Jacob Epstein sculpts him with exaggerated eyes and an expression that reflects his intensity while performing.
Ernest Heber Thompson bought the sculpture for the National Art Gallery in 1957. He was accompanied by board member G G Gibbes Watson, who excitedly told the Director of the purchase:
Last night, we bought … a really magnificent Epstein bronze … Unfortunately it is only a head, but it is such a striking head that it will dominate all others in our sculpture room … I am sure we have got a really outstanding piece.