Gazing at the Emperor Edward VII Memorial Arch, does it remind you of a bygone era? The arch stands as a tribute to King Edward VII. It is within the gardens of the Victoria Memorial. Let’s delve into its story.
The Victoria Memorial itself is a grand marble building. It was constructed between 1906 and 1921. Its purpose was to honor Queen Victoria. Today, it serves as a museum. The Ministry of Culture oversees it.
Lord Curzon, then Viceroy of India, proposed the Victoria Memorial’s creation in 1901. This followed Queen Victoria’s death. He envisioned a magnificent building with a museum and gardens. His vision became a reality.
The Prince of Wales, later King George V, laid the foundation stone in 1906. The memorial opened to the public in 1921. However, before its completion, the capital of India moved from Calcutta to New Delhi in 1912. Thus, the Victoria Memorial ended up in a provincial city.
The Victoria Memorial’s design blends British and Mughal elements. Venetian, Egyptian, Deccani, and Islamic influences are also present. William Emerson was the architect. The building is 338 feet long and 228 feet wide. It rises to 184 feet. White Makrana marble was used in its construction.
The gardens were designed by Lord Redesdale and David Prain. Vincent Jerome Esch, Emerson’s assistant, designed the bridge and garden gates. The gardens span 64 acres.
As you approach the Victoria Memorial from the south, you encounter the Emperor Edward VII Memorial Arch. Bertram Mackennal created the bronze equestrian statue of Edward VII atop the arch. Frederic William Pomeroy sculpted the marble statue of Curzon.
Within the Victoria Memorial, the Royal Gallery displays portraits of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert. Paintings depict their lives. These are copies of works in London. Queen Victoria’s childhood rosewood pianoforte is also on display.
The gardens also feature statues of other dignitaries. These include Lord William Bentinck and George Robinson. Rajendra Nath Mookerjee, a pioneer industrialist of Bengal, is also honored.
The Emperor Edward VII Memorial Arch is more than just a structure. It represents a time of empire. It is a part of a larger story told by the Victoria Memorial. Take a moment to appreciate the artistry. Remember the history. The arch stands as a silent witness to the past. It connects us to figures like King Edward VII and Lord Curzon. Their decisions shaped the India we know today.