Truth and Falsehood

myminifactory

After a rigorous selection process, Alfred Stevens, a relatively unknown sculptor at the time, was granted the prestigious commission to create a monumental tribute to the Duke of Wellington. Stevens had previously showcased his artistic vision with a scaled-down version of his intended masterpiece in 1857 as part of his competition entry. This model is now proudly displayed within the Museum's collections (Museum no. 44-1878). The duo, along with its companion piece featuring Valour and Cowardice (Museum no. 321B-1878), served as full-scale prototypes for the bronze sculptures adorning the Wellington monument in St Paul's Cathedral. Stevens, however, did not finalize these works until 1866. In this powerful creation, Truth seizes the double tongue of Falsehood, wrenching it from its grasp and shattering the disguise concealing its grotesque features. Beneath the folds of drapery, the serpent-like tails are laid bare. The entire monument was designed as a majestic archway supporting the bier and recumbent effigy of Wellington. Flanking either side were the colossal figures of Truth and Falsehood and Valour and Cowardice. It wasn't until 1912, nearly four decades after Stevens' passing, that the monument was finally completed. Gallery Location: The Dorothy and Michael Hintze Galleries, case FS in Sculpture, Room 22. This object is part of "Scan The World", a groundbreaking initiative by MyMiniFactory that aims to create a digital repository of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the globe for public access at no cost. Scan The World is an open-source community project; if you have interesting items nearby and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help. Courtesy of the Victoria and Albert Museum, London