Is It So Nominated in the Bond?

• Artist: John Rogers
• Medium: Painted plaster
• Dates: 1880
• Dimensions: 23 x 21 x 11 in. (58.4 x 53.3 x 27.9 cm)
• Signature: Inscribed on top of base at left: "JOHN ROGERS / 1880" and inscribed on second step at back: "PATENTED / JUNE 1, 1880"
• Inscriptions: Inscribed on front edge of base: '"IS IT SO NOMINATED IN THE BOND?"' and above title identifying respective figure: "ANTONIO BASSANIO PORTIA SHYLOCK"
• Collection: American Art
• Museum Location: Brooklyn Museum, BMA, 5Q12-LUCE, Unit 32, Shelf D
• Accession Number: X1058
• Image: X1058.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, Nov 30, 2004

Catalogue Description:
Statuette of figural group based on Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice," the famous trial scene from the fourth act; plaster painted light tan color. Four figures in period garb standing on oval base: in center, Portia (female figure masquerading as male lawyer) stands on staircase holding scroll in proper right hand and gesturing to Shylock; bearded Shylock stands on right side pointing to scroll with proper right hand and holding knife and other implements in proper left hand; Antonio and Bassanio stand at left side, Bassanio, seen in 3/4 rear view, holds money bag in proper right hand and places other hand on Antonio's shoulder; Antonio opens his robes to expose chest. Condition: Good, few minor chips.