John Hampden

Maker Michael Rysbrack (Flemish, baptized 1684, died 1770)

ClassificationsSCULPTURE

Dateca. 1755

Mediummarble

Dimensionsheight: 24 1/2 in. (62.2 cm.)

DescriptionThis bust depicts the English politician and Parliamentary leader John Hampden.

Credit LineThe Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

Status

On view

Label TextHampden (ca. 1594–1643) was a celebrated politician who challenged the authority of King Charles I in the run-up towards the English Civil War. For this bust, Rysbrack copied one by fellow sculptor Peter Scheemakers of ca. 1730 so as to create a pair with the bust of Oliver Cromwell—another British luminary of the past—located nearby in the gallery. The armor symbolizes the political importance of the sitters and links the two busts stylistically.

Object number80.18