Jacob Epstein was very upset. For months, the sculptor had toiled on a memorial tomb for Oscar Wilde, the celebrated—and often vilified—author of works like The Picture of Dorian Gray.

Oscar Wilde, the 20th century’s most famous sexual dissident, ... Wilde’s tomb in Père Lachaise has been subjected to clumsy caresses and outright mutilation since he was moved here in 1909.

Many today know Oscar Wilde as controversial, ... His famous tomb was designed by Sir Jacob Epstein, whose ashes were placed alongside Wilde in the structure in 1950 per his request.

J acob Epstein was very upset. For months, the sculptor had toiled on a memorial tomb for Oscar Wilde, the celebrated—and ...