Mary Spencer-Watson

Mary Spencer Watson (1913-2006) studied at the Royal Academy Schools and Central Schools under John Skeaping. Her work is influenced by Greek art and the sculpture of Ossip Zadkine, whom she met as a student. The themes of her work include animals and mythological creatures, as well as portraits.

This bust depicts Miss Else Margaret Julia Pleister (1890-1982), who lived in Pinehurst and was a benefactor to the New Hall library. A number of paintings and sculptures from Miss Pleister’s collection, including works by Boudin, Epstein and Ayrton, were bequeathed to the Fitzwilliam Museum.