2-798-580 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Statuette of the Duke of Wellington, by Count d'Orsay, 1845. 'Although not more than two feet in height, the statue scarcely deserves its diminutive appellation; since there is a dignity pervading the entire composition which forces the spectator entirely to lose sight of its comparatively small proportions...The Duke is represented as watching the progress of a battle...In the right hand he also holds a telescope. The entire pose of the figure on the horse evinces consummate power of conception...This arrangement, whilst it is purely natural, assists the pyramidal outline of the composition. By the bending of the head another great effect is also gained - the animal becomes subservient to the man: in no point can the statue be regarded so that the Duke does not at once rivet the attention, even immediately in front and below the figures'. From "Illustrated London News", 1845, Vol VII.