Jacob Epstein

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A British sculptor born in the United States who made busts of people and large sculptures that caused strong reactions

proper noun

: Jacob Epstein

Many of Jacob Epstein's most famous busts depict significant figures from the early twentieth century.

Examples

The work of Jacob Epstein often provoked strong reactions from the public and art critics.
A major exhibition of Jacob Epstein's sculptures was held at the Tate Gallery in London.
The famous sculptor Jacob Epstein created many iconic works.
Have you seen Jacob Epstein's latest exhibition?
A major exhibition of Jacob Epstein's sculptures was held at the Tate Gallery in London.
Many of Jacob Epstein's most famous busts depict significant figures from the early twentieth century.
The work of Jacob Epstein often provoked strong reactions from the public and art critics.

Surface Forms

Jacob Epstein main

Morphology

Jacob + Epstein

This is a proper name: knowing the constituents 'Jacob' and 'Epstein' only signals a personal name but does not yield the factual information that this person was a British sculptor (or the dates and biographical details). The referential meaning is arbitrary and cannot be derived from the parts, so learners who know the words but haven't encountered the name will not understand the MWE's full meaning.

Etymology

Jacob Epstein was an American-born sculptor who worked in Britain and made rough, powerful busts and large public statues that often shocked people. Because his figures looked so strong and different, his name is still linked to 'bold' or 'controversial' sculpture today.