Collections

Sir George Reid PRSA HRHA, 1841-1913, Artist

Sculptor: Macgillivray, James Pittendrigh, RSA · 1856-1938

Sir George Reid PRSA HRHA, 1841-1913, Artist

Vide typed list in artist's file which records a total of 4 casts; two of the other three being in SNPG and Aberdeen Art Gallery collections. ArtUK…

Vide typed list in artist's file which records a total of 4 casts; two of the other three being in SNPG and Aberdeen Art Gallery collections.

ArtUK shows a total of seven bronze casts in RSA, Aberdeen Art Gallery (which also holds Macgillivray's original plaster version), City Art Centre, Kelvingrove, SNPG, Fife Collections, and The Fleming Collection, with another (smaller size) appearing on the open market in 2025, bringing the recorded number to 8. Some of these are about half the size of the others, approx 35cm H. The cast in Kelvingrove, of a large size is signed and dated 1894 on the right shoulder and carries details of its being cast in Brussels on the reverse of the torso. All carry Macgillivray;s impressed anthemion stamp on the reverse.

In RSA Council Minute of 1906-11-05 is what appears an isolated reference to this work before it entered the collections; "Mr Walton reported he had called on Mr Macgillivray regarding the proposed bronze bust of Sir George Reid RSA and had learned that a replica would not be more than £25. After some consideration it was agreed to bring the matter before the Assembly of Academicians, and that no proposal be put in the billet."

RSA Assembly of Academicians Minutes 1906-11-14 records; "The motion in the Supplementary billet was then taken up, viz; To consider recommendation of Council to purchase a bronze bust of Sir George Reid RSA for the Library. A question was asked as to whether we had any money to purchase Works of Art, and also as to what it would cost. The Treasurer intimated it would be £25. After consideration Mr Hole moved seconded by Mr Hardie that the matter be deferred (until the Finance Committee submit their Report - deleted) Agreed."

Although a portrait of a President therefore, the bust cannot be properly termed as a President's Portrait as it was not paid for out of Academy funds.