1950/2 The Bristol Unicorn

David McFall R.A. (1919 - 1988)

Sculptor

Height 17.5" (44.5cms)

Bronze

Preliminary model (scale 1.5":1 ft)

for the new Council House Bristol

[Architect E. Vincent Harris R.A.]

Exhibited Royal Academy Summer

Exhibition 1951 Catalogue No. 1117

See for 1950/3 for full size version

Reference: "Civic Treasures of Bristol" by M.E. Williams p.36 (& photo facing p.36)

"No.26: Model for two gilt unicorns that adorn the roof-ends of the Council House,

College Green, by David McFall R.A., 1950. Bronze. Height 44.5cms.

The significance of the Bristol unicorns - the model shown here is

without the collar which was added to the final version - was noted for

posterity by the chamberlain of Bristol when recording payment for a new common

seal following the grant of crest and supporters in 1569. They have many qualities,

but in this instance they were chosen to represent beasts of

homage to those who are virtuous."