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Is It So Nominated in the Bond?

John Rogers

American Art

On View: Luce Visible Storage and Study Center, 5th Floor
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"
COLLECTIONS American Art
ACCESSION NUMBER X1058
CREDIT LINE Brooklyn Museum Collection
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.
MUSEUM LOCATION This item is on view in Luce Visible Storage and Study Center, 5th Floor
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