Gothique

'Nearly made bankrupt' by this work: Henry Hugh Armstead sculptor. Autograph Letter Signed to James Dafforne of the Art Journal describing his extensive work on the Colonial Office in Whitehall.

Best.-Nr. 24007 — 3 November 1874; Bridge Place Eccleston Bridge. See both men’s entries in the Oxford DNB. 4pp 12mo. Bifolium. In good condition lightly aged with slight spot from previous mount at one corner. Folded twice. Signed ‘H. H. Armstead’. In reply to a letter of Dafforne he reports that ‘the Statues I have made for the “Colonial Office” Niches are not yet in situ - but are now being raised to the niches and they will be in their places within the next few days.’ He gives the names and positions of the statues adding: ‘The eight men are there as Secretaries of State for the Colonies’. He also indicates the work he has done for ‘the central group representing the Queen &c &c’: ‘the two outside figures only they represent “Navigation” and “legislation” as well as ‘the four flattish Reliefs under the central group . they are the Virtues “Truth” “Fortitude” “Temperance” and “Obedience.” He continues: ‘You are of course aware that the alto Relievos of the 5 divisions of the World & “Government” and “Education” are by me’. He concludes with a hint of bitterness: ‘I am glad you like the memorial work it appears to give general pleasure - some satisfaction to the poor artists who were nearly made bankrupt by it.’ 3 November 1874; Bridge Place, Eccleston Bridge. unknown