Vivien Mallock b.1945 Sir Winston Churchill Bust

Vivien Mallock b.1945
Sir Winston Churchill Bust
Bronze with brown patina
20.12 in. (51.11 cm.) wide x 11 in. (27.94 cm.) deep x 27.25 in. (69.21 cm.) high
Signed “VM” and numbered "11/12"
catalogue note:
Winston Churchill stands as one of the greatest leaders of the modern world and is among the most recognizable figures in Western history. This bronze bust by the English sculptor Vivien Mallock masterfully captures his unmistakable visage, as well as his determined air and strong resilience. This is the fourth in a series of only twelve, and it stands as a compelling tribute to one of the greatest wartime leaders in history. This bust was first conceived as a commission by the British Ministry of Defence to give as a gift to the United States Department of Defense in 2015, where it was dedicated at the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes. Several sculptors were invited to submit designs and compete for the high-profile commission, but it was Mallock that received the prestigious honor. Following the sculpture’s unveiling, Mallock produced a limited series of twelve bronze casts of the work, including the present example. Striking and remarkably true to life, this sculpture captures the Prime Minister’s inner strength and indomitable spirit. Mallock took the unusual step of including her subject’s arms and hands positioned firmly on his chest in the bust — an artistic choice that lends not only personality but also a sense of gravitas and calm confidence to the portrayal. His strong stance and focused gaze reflect this legendary politician's steadfast leadership and resistance to defeat. Vivien Mallock's artistic focus lies in portraying the legacy of Great Britain through war memorials and portraits dedicated to some of the country’s most notable figures. She began working in bronze in the 1980s, and her first major commission came from the Museum of Army Flying in Hampshire for several bronze portraits of WWII fighter pilots to mark the 50th anniversary of the Battle of Britain. She was the last artist for whom the Queen Mother sat for a portrait, and the resulting bronze now resides in the Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother wing of St Mary’s Hospital Trust in London. She has received multiple prestigious public commissions for monuments and statues around England and abroad.
Condition Report: very good condition, fine warm brown patina