What secrets do these silent sentinels hold? We are standing before one of the magnificent Lions of London. More specifically, this is one of the Trafalgar Square Lions. These bronze lions are as much a part of London as the Thames. Each Lion sits in eternal vigilance. It gazes over the city. The Lion seems ready to protect its people. It is also content in its timeless role.
These lions have been nicknamed the Landseer Lions after the man who sculpted them. Sir Edwin Landseer designed these lions. Landseer’s Lions are more than sculptures. They are icons embodying the spirit of London. People pose for photos. They marvel at their grandeur. In a city that constantly changes, these Lions remain steadfast. They remind us of London’s history. They show resilience and pride.
When planning Nelson’s Column, the committee wanted four lions. They thought the lions would be a brilliant addition. The lions should represent Lord Nelson’s heroism. In 1839, Nelson’s column was erected without the four lions. The committee debated the lions until 1846. Finally, they received enough money to commission their ideal design.
The planning of the Trafalgar Square Lions was a shambles. Everything from the initial meetings to the design was fraught with obstacles. The House of Commons funded the lions. They announced that six talented sculptors should submit ideas. The Board of Works chose Sir Edwin Landseer. This was controversial. Landseer was famous for portraits of Queen Victoria. He was known for paintings of animals. But he had yet to prove himself as a sculptor. Landseer was also in poor health.
It was originally assumed that the lions would stand roaring. But rumor says that Queen Victoria thought the roaring pose was too shocking. Local newspapers branded it a national disgrace. An additional sum was needed for Baron Carlo Marochetti to cast the lions.
After decades of theatrics, the Trafalgar Square Lions were unveiled in 1867. There was a mixed reception. The Lions of Trafalgar Square were made of bronze. The bronze came from French and Spanish ships defeated at the Battle of Trafalgar.
At the time, it was rare to see a lion. Landseer requested a dead lion from London Zoo. He used it as inspiration. However, the paws of the Trafalgar Square Lions look a bit strange. Another problem was that the lions’ backs were concave. Landseer’s lack of sculpting skills was questioned.
He worked incredibly slowly. He studied the lions at the Zoological Gardens. The lions now attract hordes of tourists. Be sure to look at the feline paws. Appreciate the effort it took to make them happen. Legend says that the Lions will come to life if Big Ben chimes 13 times. Today, it is impossible to imagine anything but these magnificent bronze statues here. These Lions stand as guardians. They silently watch over Trafalgar Square. They embody London’s strength and enduring charm.