Aneurin Bevan
- Artist: Peter Lambda
- Date: 1974
- Medium: bronze
- Dimensions: 17 3/4 in. x 9 1/2 in. (450 mm x 240 mm) overall
- Portrays: Aneurin Bevan
- Museum: The National Portrait Gallery
- Collection record: The National Portrait Gallery website
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About this artwork
Before you is a bronze head of Aneurin Bevan, created by sculptor Peter Lambda in 1974 from an earlier 1945 model. The piece measures about 17¾ inches tall and 9½ inches wide—small enough to be examined closely yet imposing in its polished surface.
You can see the face rendered with fine detail: a contemplative expression, subtle lines of experience, and a head tilt that suggests thoughtfulness. The bronze finish shows slight patina changes where light hits the surfaces, giving depth to his profile and cheekbones.
Aneurin Bevan (1897‑1960) was a Welsh Labour MP for Ebbw Vale, Minister of Health, and editor of *Tribune*. His role in founding the National Health Service in 1948 is captured by this portrait. Sculptor Peter Lambda (1911‑1995) produced nine portraits; this head exemplifies his careful study of facial features.
This work sits in the Primary Collection of the National Portrait Gallery.
See it in person
Aneurin Bevan is in the collection of The National Portrait Gallery at St Martin's Place, London — free to enter. Point your phone at any artwork there and audioguide.london plays a free audio guide in six languages — no app download needed.
