Jacob Epstein

Date of Birth: November 10, 1880

Zodiac Sign: Scorpio

Date of Death: August 19, 1959

Biography

Jacob Epstein was an influential sculptor born in New York City on November 10, 1880. He is best known for his pioneering work in modern sculpture, which often incorporated bold forms and controversial subjects. Moving to Paris in his early 20s, Epstein studied at the École des Beaux-Arts and the Académie Julian. In 1905, he relocated to London, where he would spend most of his career and life. Epstein’s work often courted controversy due to its avant-garde nature and the provocative themes he explored, such as sexuality and racial identity. Despite the mixed reception, his work greatly influenced the development of modern sculpture in the 20th century. Some of his most famous pieces include the tomb of Oscar Wilde, the sculptures for the British Medical Association building, and the famous “Rock Drill.” Epstein was a member of the Royal Academy and received numerous accolades throughout his career, contributing significantly to public monuments and private commissions. He passed away on August 19, 1959, in London.

5 Interesting Facts about Jacob Epstein

1. Jacob Epstein was knighted in 1954 for his contributions to the arts.

2. His sculpture “Rock Drill” is considered one of the most important works in early modernist sculpture.

3. Epstein was often at odds with the art establishment due to the provocative nature of his work.

4. He created over 200 portraits during his career, including those of notable figures such as Albert Einstein and Winston Churchill.

5. Epstein’s work on the British Medical Association building was so controversial that parts of the sculpture were mutilated by the public.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Jacob Epstein

1. “I think one’s art goes as far and as deep as one’s love goes.”

2. “The artist is always ahead of his time, or behind it.”

3. “My work is a statement of the existence of beauty in the world.”

4. “I have no desire to be a leader of a movement; I am simply doing what I think is right.”

5. “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

The highest net worth achieved by Jacob Epstein during his lifetime is not well-documented, but his works are now considered priceless and are held in major art collections worldwide.

Children

Jacob Epstein had five children: Peggy Jean (born in 1918 with his first wife, Margaret Dunlop), and Theo, Kathleen, Esther, and Jackie (born through various relationships).