Interior of a smithy

This terracotta relief depicts a traditional image of a blacksmith's workshop. Purchased from the sculptor in 1884 for £15, when it was shown at the International Health Exhibition. Bowcher trained at the National Art Training Schools, South Kensington, London, and this relief was probably made while he was still a student. An 'Alfred W. Bowcher, Oakley Cottage Studio, Chelsea' is listed as a sculptor who exhibited at the Royal Academy between 1886 and 1889. A series of photographs illustrating clay models for terracotta frieze decorations carried out by Bowcher for St James's Square, London, in 1885 are in the Museum's Sculpture Department.