Modernist Cubist Stone Face Relief In the Manner of Picasso & John Milne School
Description


Modernist British Cubist-Style Limestone Face Relief Garden Sculpture – Circa 1970s, in the Manner of Picasso and the John Milne School

Catalogue Description
A commanding Modernist British stone face relief, hand-carved from Lincolnshire oolitic limestone, exemplifying the enduring influence of Cubism within the Modernist sculptural tradition of the circa 1970s.
The artist unites profile and frontal viewpoints — a hallmark of Picasso’s Cubism — to create a rhythmic interplay of light and shadow across faceted planes. The visage is distilled to essential geometry: a continuous contour defines brow and nose, while fine incisions imply eyes and mouth. The face seems to emerge organically from the stone block, embracing the post-war Modernist principle of truth to materials and transforming raw limestone into quiet meditation.
Formally and conceptually, the sculpture reflects the planar abstraction associated with the John Milne School — a lineage descending from Barbara Hepworth’s studio, where Milne and his contemporaries explored the dialogue between structure and spirit. Here, that tradition continues, bridging Picasso’s early-century innovation with late-century British material honesty, sustaining Modernism’s ongoing dialogue between geometry and humanity.

Material
Carved Lincolnshire limestone, fine-grained with warm buff-grey tonality and natural fossil inclusions.
A unique hand-carved work, created through direct carving rather than casting or editioning.
The surface bears a natural weathered patina with traces of moss and lichen, characteristic of outdoor placement and age.

Dimensions
Height 35 cm
Width 30 cm
Depth 9 cm
Weight 19 kg

️ Markings
Faint incised lettering on underside — “P.H. BOSLL GL” and “Youatt” — likely stonemason or workshop identifiers, consistent with regional British carving practice.

⚒️ Condition
Good overall condition with minor edge chips, small surface losses, and natural weathering from outdoor exposure.
Structurally stable; the aged surface enriches its sculptural depth and authenticity.

Provenance
Acquired from an architectural antiques dealer in Lincolnshire.
Curated and presented by Cheshire Antiques Consultant LTD.

Why You’ll Love It
Distinctive Cubist-style face inspired by Picasso’s Modernist language.
Unique hand-carved work in authentic Lincolnshire limestone with rich natural patina.
Ideal as a statement garden or courtyard sculpture.
Embodies the planar abstraction of the John Milne School within Modern British Modernism.
Supported by clear provenance and professional curation.



Reserve: $5,400.00

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