Fischer Fine Art Ltd., London
Acquired from the above by the present owner circa 1975

Alan Bowness (ed.), Henry Moore, Complete Sculpture, 1980-86, vol. III, London, 1965, no. 417, illustration of another cast p. 24

Attractive brown patina. Apart from some light surface dirt and minor handling marks to the base consistent with age, this work is in overall very good condition. Colours: Overall fairly accurate in the printed catalogue, though slightly warmer in the original.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

In 1956, Henry Moore was commissioned to complete a sculpture for the Headquarters of UNESCO in Paris (fig. 1). The sculpture was to depict the virtues of Education, Science and Culture. Moore tried a variety of different initial compositions ranging from: draped and undraped female figures, mothers and children, and seated reading figures. The present work is an exciting example of the remarkable creativity that the commission induced. The hieratic visage of this model would eventually be carved in travertine marble atop one of the most important and recognisable sculptures of Henry Moore's ground-breaking ൲career.