Ancient, British and World Coins, Tokens, Historical Medals and Banknotes

R. Phene Spiers, a fine bronze portrait plaquette in high relief by Edouard Lanteri, 1905, bearded bust r., reverse capital of an ionic column, 78mm x 58mm (MJP p. 126). Extremely fine (£50-60)

R. Phene Spiers (- 1916), Architect and Archaeologist, who wrote on the architecture of Greek and Rome. On his retirement from the Royal Academy Architectural School a large bronze plaque of Phene Spiers was presented to him by past pupils and friends. A number of smaller versions were given to subscribers. The medallist, Edouard Lanteri (d. 1917) was professor of Sculpture at the at the Royal College of Art. He exhibited at the Royal Academy regularly from 1885. Pinches notes two other medals, both awards; while Forrer records a small number of portrait medals all of which should be considered rare