Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain Statue

Do you ever feel like you have seen this statue before, perhaps in a book, a painting, or a movie? Well, this is London’s most famous sculpture. It’s called the Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain, and it was built to honor Anthony Ashley Cooper, the 7th Earl of Shaftesbury, a Victorian politician and philanthropist who dedicated his life to improving the lives of the working class. It stands in the heart of Piccadilly Circus, overlooking the south-west end of Shaftesbury Avenue, which is also named after him. The statue may look like Eros, but the sculptor, Alfred Gilbert, chose to depict the Greek god Anteros, who represents selfless love. He thought this was more fitting for Lord Shaftesbury, who dedicated his life to helping others. The statue was controversial at the time of its unveiling in 1893. Some thought it was inappropriate for a respectable Earl to be commemorated with a nude figure, while others found the subject matter too sensual for the neighborhood. Eventually, the statue was accepted by the public, but locals often refer to the statue as Eros. The fountain was moved from the center of Piccadilly Circus during the Second World War for safety reasons and was only returned in 1947. In 1985, it was once again removed for restoration, a process that included replacing the statue’s bow string that was broken by a tourist back in 2012. You can see its bronze fountain decorated with marine motifs. This fountain was the inspiration for the statue’s intricate details. The Shaftesbury Memorial Fountain is a symbol of London’s vibrant history, celebrating both the city’s artistic heritage and its commitment to philanthropy. Despite its origins of controversy, this statue has stood as a meeting point for generations of Londoners and tourists alike. So, the next time you’re in Piccadilly Circus, make sure to stop by the statue and let yourself be transported back in time.