Description A GROUP OF TWO ENGLISH PLASTER LIFE MASK REPLICAS OF WILLIAM BLAKE AND JOHN KEATS, CIRCA 1999, the William Blake life mask/bust replica on an integral circular socle with light fawn tinting throughout, verso incised inscription, "A 66 / PUBD AUG.1.1823 IDEVILLE / 67 Arnand London," height: 11"; together with a John Keats white plaster life mask replica, verso hollowed interior beneath an integral suspension wire, height: 9 1/4", width: 6 1/2". Note: Each of these plaster masks is cast from the original life mask located in the collections of the National Portrait Gallery in London. William Blake's (English 1757-1827) life mask replica was taken from the 1823 original made when he was 66 years old by James Deville. This comes with a 1999 letter from the National Portrait Gallery to the owner concerning the ordering of Blake's mask/bust.John Keats (English/Poet 1795-1821) this life mask replica was taken from the original made on December 14, 1816 by Benjamin Robert Haydon (English 1786-1846) so that he could add Keats as one of the observers in his immense historical painting, "Christ's Entry into Jerusalem."? ? Provenance: Estate of David E. Brauer, Houston, Texas.
Condition Report Each in good condition with some surface dust buildup and a few tiny nicks throughout while Keat's mask has a surface lump of soft red wax in throat area. Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS." NO REFUNDS will be issued based on condition.