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Sir George Reid PRSA

Artist (Inverurie, Scotland, 1856 - 1938)
Sitter (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1841 - 1913)
Date1894
Mediumbronze on one of peterhead marble
ClassificationsSculptures
DimensionsOverall: Height: 61 cm, Width: 45 cm, Depth: 36 cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1895 by the artist.
CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDAG004660
About MeThis large head of George Reid is undoubtedly one of Macgillivray's most forceful works. Open-shirted and dishevelled, Reid is portrayed as a romantic hero. On both face and body every tool mark is visible - the swirling, twisting figure seems almost to be trying to escape from the confines of his bronze prison.

This work resembles closely Auguste Rodin's famous head of Victor Hugo. Although Macgillivray admired Rodin's work, characteristically he fiercely denied any debt to his art.