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Monumental 1939 World’s Fair Heraldic Panel of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick

About the Item

Monumental 1939 World’s Fair Heraldic Panel of Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick. Sculpted by Gilbert Bayes (1872–1953), from Designs by Gerald Cobb. Polychrome and Parcel-Gilt Plaster in Steel Frame This extraordinary relief presents Warwick in full armor astride a warhorse, with a sword raised high and a red-and-white shield bearing his personal arms. The caparisoned horse displays intricate heraldic devices in vibrant golds, reds, and blues, while supporters—a chained bear and white bull—flank the foreground amid stylized floral elements. The surface is richly articulated with detailed modeling, and the gilding adds drama to the dynamic composition. The piece is inscribed: “1428 Richard Neville, Earl of Warwick and Salisbury… The King Maker. 1471” Provenance: Christie’s Interiors, Sale 2530, New York, January 10–11, 2012, Lot 577 — Sold for $10,625 USD Property from the Collection of the Glenbow Museum, Calgary, Alberta, Canada Condition: Good condition overall. Scattered small chips and rubbing to high points and edges, consistent with age and past public installation. One visible chip to a red drapery fold (see photograph). Paint appears stable, and vibrant color and gilt highlights remain. Not examined out of crate; visual inspection indicates the piece is structurally sound. Historical Context: Created for the 1939 New York World’s Fair, themed “The World of Tomorrow”, this panel was one of a series commissioned for the British Pavilion, showcasing historical figures central to the formation of British identity. Richard Neville, known as “The King Maker”, played a decisive role in the Wars of the Roses, shaping the monarchy through alliances and power struggles. Gilbert Bayes, a leader in British architectural sculpture, brought a vivid narrative and sculptural grandeur to the project. His collaboration with Gerald Cobb, a distinguished heraldic designer and historian, resulted in a suite of highly stylized and historically informed reliefs. Very few of these panels survive today, making this piece a rare artifact from a landmark global exhibition. A museum-worthy showpiece, ideal for collectors of British heraldry, World’s Fair memorabilia, or 20th-century architectural and exhibition design. Artist Bios: Gilbert Bayes (British, 1872–1953) Gilbert Bayes was one of the most prominent British sculptors of the early 20th century, best known for his public and architectural sculpture. A member of the Royal British Society of Sculptors and President from 1939 to 1944, Bayes studied at the Royal Academy Schools and exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and the Arts and Crafts Exhibition Society. His work spanned memorials, decorative reliefs, fountains, and architectural commissions, often blending narrative richness with Art Deco stylization. Bayes’s decorative plaster reliefs and ceramic works—many produced in collaboration with Royal Doulton—are widely recognized for their vibrant polychromy and historical storytelling. His commissions included the façades of hospitals, housing estates, and international exhibitions, including the 1939 New York World’s Fair. Gerald Cobb (British, 1900–1986) Gerald Cobb was a distinguished British architectural artist, designer, and heraldic historian, known for his meticulous studies and reconstructions of English medieval and ecclesiastical architecture. He specialized in historical decoration and was often commissioned to provide designs for architectural panels, wall paintings, and ceremonial emblems. Cobb’s deep understanding of heraldry and English history made him a sought-after collaborator for state and public projects, including his work on the British Pavilion for the 1939 World’s Fair. He was also a respected author and lecturer, and his published works include studies on British cathedrals and stained glass. His designs are characterized by a faithful yet imaginative approach to medieval iconography.
  • Creator:
    Gilbert Bayes (Sculptor)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 105.5 in (267.97 cm)Width: 98 in (248.92 cm)Depth: 6 in (15.24 cm)
  • Style:
    Art Deco (In the Style Of)
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1930's
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses.
  • Seller Location:
    Morristown, NJ
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU5990244420612

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