Lot 277
PAINTED PLASTER MODEL OF CHARLES GREY, 2ND EARL GREY, AFTER EDWARD HODGES BAILY
MID 19TH CENTURY
Fine Furniture and Works of Art
Auction: 5 April 2017 at 11:00 BST
Description
dressed as a Knight of the Garter, on circular base inscribed 'London 1832'
Dimensions
62cm high
Footnote
Note: Charles Grey, 2nd Earl Grey, a native of Northumberland, served as leader of the Whig Party, eventually attaining the office of Prime Minister from 1830-34. A political reformer, his most important piece of legislation was the Reform Act of 1832 which introduced changes to the electoral system, leading to the one we recognise today. Other important reforming measures included restrictions on the employment of children and the abolition of slavery in the British Empire. Edward Hodges Baily's full figure of Grey stands atop a forty metre high column in the centre of Newcastle and is a well-known landmark. Earl Grey is also known for the eponymous tea blend which became popular in the 19th century.