Charles Bell Birch, A.R.A. (British, 1832-1893), "Bust of a Distinguished Gentleman", 1881, marble, inscribed "CB Birch/A.R.A./Sc. 1881" along back truncation, on a socle base, h. 28", w. 20", d. 9-1/2", presented on a faux-marbre composite columnar plinth, h. 40", overall, h. 68". Provenance: Personal collection of D. Didier, New Orleans, Louisiana. A native of London, Birch attended the School of Design, Somerset House, before moving to Berlin to study under acclaimed German sculptor Christian Daniel Rauch (1777-1857) at the Akademie der Kunste. Upon his return to England, Birch served over a decade as the principal assistant in the studio of John Henry Foley, R.A. (1818-1874), during which time he was awarded a significant financial prize (sources debate whether it was Ј500 or Ј600) from the Art Union of London for a sculpture of a nymph. He exhibited regularly at the Royal Academy and was elected an Associate of that organization in 1880. Birch gained a reputation as an adept sculptor and was most appreciated for his approach to portraiture. His numerous public commissions include the monumental statues of Benjamin Disraeli (1883), St. George's Hall, Liverpool, and Queen Victoria (1896), Blackfriars Bridge, London.

Overall good condition. Scattered pinprick sized areas of darkening/discoloration, especially top of head and proper left shoulder. A few nicks, chips and losses: left shoulder, lapel, left front truncation, right side of tie, small areas along back edge truncarion. Small hole at bottom of tip of nose. Layer of surface soiling, especially in more deeply modeled areas.