John Charles Felix Rossi and probably by Edward Hodges Baily, 'Central Portico Sculptures', 1826-32
About the group
Overview
The dominant sculptural ornament of the National Gallery’s central portico is a relief over its entrance, representing Europe and Asia. The continents are personified by two women, one of whom sits on a horse, the other on a camel. They are flanked by a pair of winged female draped figures, standing in niches either side of the entrance. None of these sculptures were originally intended for this setting.
The central sculpture was designed by John Nash in 1827, and carved by Charles Rossi. It was supposed to adorn London’s ceremonial entranceway, the Marble Arch, but was never put up when the arch was reduced in scale and ambition to save money. When it was discovered that the government was not willing to pay for elaborate external decorations on William Wilkins’ new National Gallery, it was decided to rehouse Europe and Asia on Trafalgar Square. The two female figures, sculpted by another British neoclassical sculptor, Edward Hodges Baily, were also originally designed by Nash for the Marble Arch.
Key facts
Details
- Full title
- Central Portico Sculptures
- Artist
- John Charles Felix Rossi and probably by Edward Hodges Baily
- Artist dates
- 1762 - 1839; 1788 - 1867
- Date made
- 1826-32
- Medium and support
- Portland stone
- Inventory number
- H207-H209
- Collection
- Contextual Collection
About this record
If you know more about this painting or have spotted an error, please contact us. Please note that exhibition histories are listed from 2009 onwards. Bibliographies may not be complete; more comprehensive information is available in the National Gallery Library.
Works in the group
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The relief above the Portico Entrance was originally intended for Marble Arch, designed by John Nash in 1827 as a ceremonial entranceway. After the death of John Flaxman, who had been chosen to provide the commemorative sculpture, the work was divided between Charles Rossi, Edward Hodges Baily an... -
Probably by Edward Hodges BailyThis Victory is the work of the British neoclassical sculptor, Edward Hodges Baily, as are its pair and another six female figures, which all adorn the façade of the National Gallery.In 1826, Baily received a large order for sculpture, including four statues of ‘Victories’, for Marble Arch, which... -
Probably by Edward Hodges BailyThis Victory is the work of the British neoclassical sculptor, Edward Hodges Baily, as are its pair and another six female figures, which all adorn the façade of the National Gallery.In 1826, Baily received a large order for sculpture, including four statues of ‘Victories’, for Marble Arch, which...
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