Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
"Is It So Nominated in the Bond?" |
Catalog Number |
4231 |
Description |
"Is It So Nominated in the Bond?" Painted plaster group by John Rogers. Rogers (1829-1904) was a well-known sculptor whose "groups" were popular in the late 19th century. He worked as a mechanic in the machine shop of the Amoskeag Manufacturing Company from 1850 to 1856 and while in Manchester began modeling with clay that he found near the Merrimack River in Hooksett. This group represents the trial scene from Shakespeare's "Merchant of Venice" and features Antonio, Bassanio, Portia, and Shylock. The stairs lead to the seat of the Duke (not pictured) who presides over the court. Portia, disguised as a lawyer, is here to assist the Duke with her legal knowledge. She holds the bond in one hand in which Antonio pledged one pound of flesh if he does not repay the loan. He has failed to return it and Portia declares that the penalty is due. Antonio is therefore dropping his coat and opening his dress so the flesh can be cut nearest his heart. His friend Bassanio stand nearby with a bag of gold to pay Shylock who refuses it. Portia urges Shylock to have a surgeon at hand to check the blood. Shylock exclaims: "Is it so nominated in the bond?" 23" H, 19.5" L, 12.5" D |
Object Name |
Sculpture |
Artist |
Rogers, John |
Date |
1880 (patented) |
Accession number |
4231 |