Herbert Ward (British, 1863-1919): A patinated bronze bust of the head of an African tribesman The sitter looking to dexter, signed within the cast to the rear left edge Herbert Ward, mounted on a veined serpentine marble square plinth base, 18cm high, 7cm wide, 7.5cm deep approximately Footnotes: Herbert Ward demonstrated an early desire for adventure, leaving England at the age of fifteen to pursue his interests and spending his youth travelling extensively. In 1884, he journeyed to the Congo, where he was employed by various companies managing the transport of goods and supplies between Europe and Africa. After a year, Ward joined Henry Morton Stanley's expedition, navigating the rivers of the region. His admiration for the Congo and its peoples led him to learn local languages and customs, enabling him to establish strong relationships with diverse communities. Ward departed Africa in 1889 and embarked on a career as a touring writer and lecturer, concentrating particularly on his experiences in the Congo. Four years later, he turned his attention to the arts and began formal artistic training, eventually relocating to Paris to pursue bronze casting. His travel journals from the Congo served as a significant source of inspiration for his sculptures. In Paris, both the French Academy and the public responded positively to his Congolese subjects. Ward adopted a naturalistic approach to the human figure, emphasising that his works were intended as art rather than scientific illustration, seeking to convey what he described as the spirit of Africa in its broadest sense. Over the course of his career, Ward increasingly questioned colonial practices, particularly in Africa. During World War I, he served as a Lieutenant in No. 3 Convoy of the British Ambulance Committee, distinguishing himself through his service. However, the demands of wartime service adversely affected his health, and he died in 1919. For further information on this lot please visit Bonhams.com For further information about this lot please visit the lot listing