9316 A large English George IV Derbysire alabaster model of a recumbent bull, looking to one side and with his legs tucked underneath, on a black Ashford marble base. Repair to the horns and possibly front legs. Attributed to the Joseph Hall Marble Works, Derby
English, Derbyshire
1830
Width: 16.25 ins (41.5 cms)
Depth: 9 ins (23 cms)
Height: 8 ins (20 cms) £6,500
Description
In the early 19th century, from his home Chatsworth in Derbyshire, the sixth Duke of Devonshire (1790-1858) was keen to encourage local craftsman in stone to emulate the great works of art in his family collection using local materials. In this way, a group of excellent craftsmen emerged who were producing works of art of the very highest quality. Among them was Joseph Hall, likely the maker of this bull, known for very fine alabaster carvings of dogs and bulls in 17th century style, some of which are still at Chatsworth today. The alabaster and the black marble it sits on were both quarried in Derbyshire.
