If there were no other reason for searching Shakespeare's
grave, save the extinction of an unpleasant but not irrational
doubt, I would forthwith perform the exploration, and if possible
obtain tangible proof that the poet's skull had not been removed
from its resting-place.
But the exploration, if successful, would have a bearing upon more
material issues. The most opposite judgments have been passed upon
the Bust, both as a work of art and as a copy of nature. Landor,
whose experience of Italian art was considerable, recorded it as his
opinion, that it was the noblest head ever sculptured; while Mr.
Hain Friswell depreciated it, declaring it to be "rudely cut and
heavy, without any feeling, a mere block": smooth and round like a
boy's marble. {33} After some of Mr. Friswell's deliverances, I am
not disposed to rank his judgment very high; and I accept Lander's
decision. As to the finish of the face, Mr. Fairholt's criticism is
an exaggeration, successfully exposed by Mr. Friswell. My own
opinion, telle quelle, has been already printed. {34} Allowing the
bust to have been a recognisable, if not a staring likeness of the
poet, I said and still say--"How awkward is the ensemble of the
face! What a painful stare, with its goggle eyes and gaping mouth!
The expression of this face has been credited with humour, bonhommie
and jollity.
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