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Oliver Twist

PUBLIC ART COLLECTION IDENTIFICATION SUMMARY
Click to enlarge image .pdf printout of this page	Number: 0023
	Artist: Guthrie, Trace
	Title: Oliver Twist
	Date: 1976
	Type: Sculpture
	Medium: Bronze
	Dimensions: Sculpture: approx. 4'6” x 1'4” x 1'4” Pedestal and Base: 10” x 2'8” x 2'8”
	Foundry/Fabricator: Al Shakis Foundry
	Location/Environment: Hermann Park, Miller Outdoor Theatre
	Provenance: Given to the City of Houston by Theater Under the Stars

Historical Background

Subject
The endearing story of Oliver Twist, by Charles Dickens, is one that many are familiar with. Much like in the story of the poor orphan, the statue depicts the child asking for more porridge. With a disheveled air about him, he holds his bowel and spoon outstretched earnestly to the viewer. The sculpture was donated to the City of Houston by the Theater Under the Stars and appropriately brings to life this literary character.

Physical Description
The statue is life size and portrays a young male with an outstretched bowl with a spoon in it. The sculpture is on a concrete base that measures approximately 10” x 2'8” x 2'8”. The statue is composed of cast bronze and measures 4'6” x 1'4” x 1'4”. There is a dark brown patination on the piece.

Restoration/Conservation
Oliver was restored in May 1998.