2-969-803 - /Heritage Images

Statue of Lord Somers, by W. C. Marshall, R.A., 1856. Rebuilding of the Houses of Parliament in London. One of the statues '...with which St. Stephen's Hall is being gradually ornamented. There is much repose and dignity in the figure, he rests upon the left leg, whilst the right is slightly put forward. In his left hand he holds the bag containing the seals of office: this is just carelessly held also by the right hand. The costume and detail are well conceived. The whole is a work of very great merit, and bears out the well-earned fame of the sculptor'. John Somers, 1st Baron Somers, was Lord Keeper of the Great Seal of England, President of the Royal Society, and Lord High Chancellor of England 1697-1700. From "Illustrated London News", 1856.