LONDON.- Ben Uri announced the acquisition of a rare early bronze portrait by one of its founding fathers, Moshe Oved (Edward Good, 1885 Poland – 1958 London).
Oved is most recognised for his jewellery designs which are greatly sought after. This sculpture, reflecting his classical approach prior to his experimental and more avant-garde period, is of a type seldom available in the open market.
It therefore marks an important addition to the eleven works by Oved already in Ben Uri's collection of 1300 plus artworks - both for its powerful subject matter, depicting a pious Ost Jude (eastern Jew) with characteristic side locks and decorative brimmed hat, at a time when the gallery is focussing on identity and migration - and because of the significance of its maker.
Oved/Good was one of the key founding figures of the Ben Uri Art Society, established in London's East End ghetto in July 1915 by Jewish émigré artisans who had escaped persecution in central eastern Europe or were seeking a better life in Britain.
A great supporter of Yiddish culture, Oved's commitment to Ben Uri was longstanding and he held an honorary office within the organisation from 1915–56, as well as facilitating the acquisition of a number of Ben Uri's most important early works, including David Bomberg's Ghetto Theatre in 1920.
Oved was also a great character, who presided over his jewellery emporium, Cameo Corner in Museum Street, in flowing purple robes, regaling his customers with well-honed anecdotes and building a reputation as a recognised authority on cameos, antique watches and clocks. In 1933 he sold the Mozaic Faberge Egg to King George V for £250 pounds, possibly as a gift for Queen Mary's birthday.
Anecdotally, it was while sheltering in the basement of Cameo Corner during the Blitz, that Oved first began modelling highly sought-after animal design rings to steady his trembling hands. He also created a series of small bronze heads, such as this acquisition, and a number of candelabra to commemorate the victims of the Holocaust.
