John W. Mills (1933-2023) ‘Somersault & Entry #2’ Bronze Diver Sculpture

An interesting patinated green bronze tabletop sculpture titled ‘Somersault and Entry’ by the acclaimed British sculptor, John W. Mills.

Part of the divers in motion series, this bronze is mounted on a square green marble base, making it perfect for decorative display in an interior.

While this is a motionless, three-dimensional piece, it demonstrates the talent of the artist, the diver cleverly captured in such a way that a creates the impression of movement as the figure lifts off from a springboard.

This sculpture formed part of John W. Mills’ one-man ‘Divers’ exhibition at the Pyramid Gallery, York, in 2016. The collection captures the grace and athleticism of the sport, inspired and observed by the late artist’s lifelong passion for diving.

A handwritten sticker to the bottom of the marble base reads ‘JWM 92 / 3250.00’.

John W. Mills (1933-2023)

John Mills was a highly celebrated English sculptor, celebrated across the globe for his contemporary statues, bronze figures and artistic maquettes.

Mills showcased a flair for sculpture from a young age, first exhibiting at the Royal Academy of Arts in 1951 and then hosting his first one-man show at the AIA Gallery, London in 1959. Throughout his distinguished career, Mills went on to received several prizes and accolades and many notable commissions.

Some of his most famous works include the monumental memorial to The Woman of World War II in Whitehall, London and the National Firefighters Memorial near St. Paul’s Cathedral, London.

Following the sculptor’s passing in 2023, the contents of John W. Mill’s creative studio at his family home in Hinxworth Place, Hertfordshire were dispersed. This sculpture formed part of this curated collection, from which we selected several pieces, offering a rare chance to obtain original works made by the artist, including sculptural pieces for garden, interior and exhibition.

Provenance: Hinxworth Place; The Estate of John Mills (1933-2023)