Clare Sheridan (1885-1970)

Clare Sheridan (1885-1970). A carved walnut triptych with applique silver and copper decoration, the exterior carved with two angels, the interior with Virgin Mary and Christ Child above a banner inscribed 'Ave Gratia Plena', paper label verso, 'Triptyck by Clare Sheridan 1953', silver makers mark WG, London, 1953, 23.5 x 14.5ins (closed) 
 
 
Flamboyant and controversial, Clare Sheridan was a first cousin to Sir Winston Churchill and was initially known as a sculptor of busts including Lenin, Trotsky and Marconi however, her work took on religious overtones after the second world war. When in London she often stayed with Johanna Stein whom she gave the triptych and thereafter passed by descent.