Almost a decade. That’s how long it took for Landseer’s lions to finally take their places in Trafalgar Square. These aren’t just any lions. This is Leo the Lion statue.
Let’s journey back to 1858. The famed painter Edwin Landseer, celebrated for his depictions of animals, received a significant commission. He was to sculpt four lions for Trafalgar Square. Now, Landseer wasn’t a sculptor by trade. But he accepted the challenge.
He immersed himself in the study of lions. The Art Journal noted his dedication. Landseer spent countless hours at the Zoological Gardens. He meticulously observed their habits and attitudes. He wanted to capture their essence.
Initially, sculptor Thomas Milnes had been chosen for the job. He even created four stone lions. But they were deemed not impressive enough. Titus Salt later bought them. They now reside in Saltaire.
The public grew impatient as years passed. The Athenaeum sarcastically commented on the delay. They envisioned local children climbing all over the lions. They predicted that the lions would add to the amusements of the young urchins.
One observer wrote about a large boarding being placed around Trafalgar Square. People hoped Landseer had finally finished the lions. It turned out to be a paving project instead. The public was disappointed.
Finally, in 1866, the first lion was completed. By 1867, all four lions were in place. Almost ten years after Landseer’s commission. These lions quickly became beloved. Tourists and Londoners alike clambered upon them.
These aren’t identical copies. Though each shares the same pose, their manes and faces have subtle differences. They sit proudly. Their front paws are symmetrically forward. Tails curl elegantly.
Despite their size, they are dwarfed by Nelson’s Column. The column’s base is thicker than the lions are long. Their placement at the corners of a square allows for varied backdrops.
Lion statues are common in British sculpture. Yet none match the Trafalgar Square lions in size except for George Simonds’s lion in Reading.
Today, the Leo the Lion statues remain iconic. They guard Nelson’s Column. They continue to be photographed and admired. They are a testament to Landseer’s vision. They also prove enduring symbols of London.