10 OF 12

Spencer Perceval

10 of 12 portraits on display on Floor 2: Turning Heads at Beningbrough Hall

Spencer Perceval

studio of Joseph Nollekens
marble bust, (circa 1812)
26 in. (660 mm) high
Given by the sitter's great-granddaughter, Mrs F.C. Holland, 1912
Primary Collection
NPG 1657

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Sitterback to top

Spencer Perceval (1762-1812), Prime Minister. Sitter in 18 portraits.

Artistback to top

Joseph Nollekens (1737-1823), Sculptor. Artist associated with 20 portraits, Sitter in 14 portraits.

This portraitback to top

Spencer Perceval, a Tory politician, was Prime Minister from 1809 until 1812 when he was shot dead in the lobby of the House of Commons. Later that day, the sculptor Nollekens was called to Perceval's rooms to make a death-mask. This marble bust is one of several that Nollekens and his studio made to commemorate Perceval. The face is based upon the death-mask, which people found a moving likeness. The setting, in Roman toga-style drapery, adds a timeless grandeur to this memorial.