figure of Neptune
Summary
Figure of Neptune in crown and billowing white cloak, picked out with purple, yellow and gilt flowers and purple lining. He stands on large scrolling scallop shell, striding forward and clasping cloak about him with his right hand, left hand raised holding trident (missing). Large grotesque dolphin at his feet, painted with yellow, green and purple scales, torrent of water spilling from its mouth. Tall pierced rocky base, encrusted with shells and seaweed, painted in yellow, green, purple and iron red.
Display Label
Clay Clay is an ancient, universal material. Dug out of the ground, it is basic stuff, formed by the elements, earth, water, air and fire. Its use is one of the oldest human artforms. Clay responds to the touch of your hand, it can be pushed and pulled, squeezed and pinched. Clay has no natural form of its own, and can be shaped into almost anything. It is tactile, inviting, immediate and intimate. When soft, it is marked by the slightest touch, yet once fired, it becomes fixed and permanent. A clay pot will survive for thousands of years, bearing the thumbprint of the potter who made it. Some makers are drawn by clay's physical appeal, its sensuous and tactile qualities. For others it is simply a means to an end, an incredibly diverse and expressive medium with the potential to do almost anything.
Object Name
figure of Neptune
Creators Name
Date Created
c.1770
accession number
1917.423/2
Collection Group
Place of creation
Derby
Medium
Credit
Leicester Collier Bequest
Legal
© Manchester Art Gallery
