A Nymph Unclasping Her Zone — Image credit: Sir John Soane’s Museum

Richard Westmacott II (1775–1856)

Sir John Soane’s Museum

(b London, 15 July 1775; d London, 1 Sept. 1856). English Neoclassical sculptor. The son of a sculptor also called Richard (1747–1808), he trained first under his father and then from 1793 to 1796 in Rome, where he worked in Canova's studio. After his return to London, he soon had a very large practice, second only to Chantrey's. His best-known work is the huge Achilles statue (unveiled 1822) in Hyde Park; it honours the Duke of Wellington and is made of bronze from French cannon captured during his campaigns. At the time the figure's conspicuous nudity was considered shocking or amusing, especially considering it had been paid for by a group of lady subscribers. His last major work was the group of the Progress of Civilization on the pediment of the British Museum (installed 1851).

Set in Stone: The Story of The British Museum's Pediment

Sir Richard Westmacott was the leading British sculptor of his day. Already involved with questions of the display of works in the British Museum’s collection, Westmacott was tasked with the design of sculptures to sit in the pediment on the imposing façade of the institution. Surmounting the main entrance, Westmacott’s sculptures dedicate the museum to culture and civilisation.

British Museum Director, Hartwig Fischer, delves into the story and inspiration behind these fascinating sculptures and uncovers their layered narratives as a gateway to the museum. Filmed in glorious detail via drone, HENI Talks was privileged enough to film the sculptures up close.

_{Video credit: HENI Talks}