THE MODEL ATTRIBUTED TO JOHN BACON RA (1740-1799), COADE, LAMBETH, CIRCA 1780

Eleanor Coade's 'Artificial Stone Manufactory' was established at King's Arms Stairs, Lambeth in 1769. Eleanor Coade was one of a handful of independent women in the eighteenth century who began their own businesses and managed them successfully. The business produced sculpture and decorative architectural ornament in a material - today referred to as 'Coade' stone - which could be cast in complex forms and which was highly resistant to damage from the elements. Ms Coade employed the young and talented sculptor John Bacon to create models for the business, which he did until his death. In a 1784 catalogue advertising the firms wares, a 'Queen Elizabeth Height 1 Foot 8 In.' is listed priced 3 guinea's 3 shillings in a section dedicated to busts.