Edward Bainbridge Copnall 1903-1973

Edward Bainbridge Copnall was born in Cape Town, South Africa. Father of the artist John Copnall. Studied a Goldsmiths' College School of Art and at the Royal Academy Schools. Turned to sculpture in the 1920s. Exhibited widely including RA, LG, NEAC, RP, RSA and at the Paris Salon. His commissions included figures on the RIBA building, St.Columba's, Pont Street and several dozen carvings for the liners Queen Mary and Queen Elizabeth. During the Second World War Copnall served as a camouflage officer in north Africa, the near east and Italy lecturing to troops on the importance of deception and camouflage. He was awarded an MBE for his services. At the end of the war he was given a studio at the British School at Rome where he painted portraits of officers. Copnall was head of Sir John Cass College 1945-53 and president of the RBS in 1961-66. His work is represented in a number of British and foreign collections.