Bust, Sir Samuel Gillott 1905

Summary

Born in Sheffield, England (1838-1913) Sir Samuel Gillott was elected as Melbourne’s Mayor in 1900 and held the position for two terms. From 1901, the same year Gillott was knighted, the position was titled Lord Mayor. Gillott has been described as a sharp lawyer and generous entertainer but a poor politician. As was not uncommon, Gillott held positions in both local and state governments. He resigned from the latter in 1906 after being accused of complicity with John Wren’s illegal gambling racket and with loaning money to Caroline Hodgson, also known as ‘Madame Brussels’ – the most infamous brothel keeper of the era. Sculptor and painter Charles Richardson (1853-1932) emigrated to Australia with his parents in 1858. As a student and practitioner, he was a stalwart of the art scene – friends included the painter Tom Roberts and sculptor Bertram Mackennal – and for many years he played a leading role in the Victorian Artists’ Society. Though appreciated, his work came to be regarded as too Victorian for the evolving modern tastes of the 20th century. The bust was handed over to Sir Samuel Gillott in the Melbourne Town Hall Council Chamber by Mr H. Butler in November 1905.