Memorial Plaque for Betty Fletcher

Memorial Plaque for Betty Fletcher

bronze, freestone

A memorial plaque dedicated to Mrs Betty Fletcher, graduate of the University of Queensland, Patron of the Friends of Antiquity and donor to the RD Milns Antiquities Museum. The plaque is backed on a piece of Helidon Freestone (the same used in the fabric of the University's Great Court) and supported by two triangular wooden struts. The central feature is a large bronze portrait medallion of Mrs Fletcher, completed by Dr Rhyl Hinwood AM in 1991. The medallion and inscription were mounted by Mr Rob Hinwood. The portrait is in profile, facing left with the hair tied back in a low bun and the leading edge executed in wavy curls. Mrs Fletcher looks off the side of the medallion and wears a necklace and loose fitting garment around her shoulders. Below the medallion is an inscribed plaque in bronze or brass with white inlay. A Greek inscription announces Mrs Fletcher's virtues and details her association and contribution to Classics at UQ. The inscription was provided by Professor RD Milns AM and reads:
"ΦΙΛΟΣΟΦΟΣ | ΦΙΛΟΚΑΛΟΣ | ΦΙΛΑΝΘΡΟΠΟΣ"
"Lover of Wisdom, Lover of Beauty, Lover of Humanity"

Mrs Fletcher was responsible for the donation of several important pieces, including the Museum's large marble Loutrophoros fragment (86.0097). A scholarship endowed by Mrs Fletcher and bearing her name is maintained by the Alumni Association of the University of Queensland and the Friends of Antiquity. It was established to allow one student to undertake international travel to the Mediterranean each year. Lady Campbell, wife of Sir Walter Benjamin Campbell AC QC, Governor of Queensland and ex Vice-Chancellor of the University, unveiled the plaque. A second edition of this portrait was donated to Somerville House by Mr Owen Fletcher in 1993 as Betty Fletcher was an Old Girl of the school.

Dr R Hinwood AM
Mr R Hinwood
Em. Prof. RD Milns AM

Gift of Dr R Hinwood AM and Mr R Hinwood.

1991

380 mm x 280 mm x 220 mm (mounted)

14.002