£1,000 - £2,000
William Behnes (1795-1864), carved white marble bust (Carrara) of a young woman, probably Suzette Shuttleworth, on a waisted circular socle, inscribed on the reverse "W. Behnes, S. C.", c.1830s, H.77cm, with a mottled marble plinth, approx. 30cm cubed. (2)
Notes: William Behnes began his studies at the Royal Academy of Arts in 1813, going on to exhibit there in 1815. He became a successful sculptor, becoming "Sculptor in Ordinary" to Queen Victoria in 1837.
Provenance: By family repute: Suzette, daughter of the Count de Sury of Soleure (modern day Solothurn in Switzerland), married the Botanist Robert James Shuttleworth (1810-1874) in 1834. It is believed that the bust was commissioned around this time. Suzette and Robert had two children together, but both children predeceased them. Consequently, the bust passed to Robert's half-brother, and hence by direct descent to the current vendor, the Great Great Niece of Robert and Suzette.
(Condition: The bust has been cleaned following a period of outdoor exposure, leaving a matte finish with speckles and other marks, small fault in the front her hair, and a few other tiny faults)
Fees apply to the hammer price:
Free Registration
33.6% inc VAT*
Flat Fee Registration
30.00% inc VAT*
