Jun 14, 2023
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Boris Anrep’s National Gallery Mosaics
On entering the National Gallery through the main entrance, most visitors are unaware that they are walking over several works of art before reaching the main rooms of the collection. The floors of the landings and vestibules are decorated with mosaics, laid by artist Boris Anrep between 1928 and 1952.
Anrep had an irreverent approach to creating his designs; for The Awakening of the Muses and The Modern Virtues, he cast celebrities into the various roles depicted. For example, Virginia Woolf stars as Clio, muse of history, with Greta Garbo as Melpomene, muse of tragedy. An instantly recognisable Winston Churchill, standing atop the cliffs of Dover, portrays Defiance, whilst T. S. Eliot acts as Leisure, busy contemplating Einstein’s E = MC2.
The other two mosaics, The Labours of Life and The Pleasures of Life, feature ordinary people in their occupations and pursuits – such as mining, science, cricket, and conversation. The Pleasures of Life also features appearances from Christmas Pudding and Mud Pies!
The Prophet Micah speaks of the Messiah's birth
The Prophet Micah speaks of the Messiah’s birth
20th December “But from you, O Bethlehem Ephrathah, among the tiniest of the clans of Judah, from you will come forth for me one who is to be a ruler in Israel, one whose origins are from the distant past, from ancient times.” (Micah 5:1) Micah was one of the Twelve Minor Prophets and possibly also a judge. He was active during the reign of three of the kings of Judah, including Hezekiah…
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Nude and Ruins (Boris Anrep, 1944)
Boris Anrep was a 20th century Russian artist best known for his mosaics. His large intricate mosaics can be found throughout Europe, including at the Cathedral of Christ the King, Mullingar in Ireland and the National Gallery in London. Despite being best known for mosaics, the piece above is an example of Anrep’s painting with gouache (a type of watercolor).
London’s Russian Artist: Boris Anrep | London Historians' Blog
London’s Russian Artist: Boris Anrep | London Historians’ Blog
This article by Dr Helen Szamuely was first published in London Historians Members’ Newsletter of April 2015.
The cavalier way in which TfL seems to have treated the Paolozzi mosaics in Totte…
Source: London’s Russian Artist: Boris Anrep | London Historians’ Blog
N.B. I’m not currently responding to comments or visiting blogs because of ill-health but I much appreciate your support.
Take care…
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Going through a bit of a Boris Anrep obsession. This is from the National Gallery, London and the photo comes via www.mosaicartnow.com.
The Angel by Boris Anrep at Mottisfont, Hampshire
A mosaic by one of my favourite artists at Mottisfront Abbey near Romsey. It's hidden away down the side of the house and was commissioned Maud Russell part of the Anrep's circle in the 1920s and 30s.
Boris Anrep - Mrs Gilbert Russell Sitting in Bed