Nature’s Throne Sculpture

Gazing upon Nature’s Throne, one might mistake it for an ancient relic. But this isn’t a portal to the past. It’s a modern masterpiece. Nature’s Throne, also known as Hackney Henge or London’s Stonehenge, is a captivating sculpture nestled within the Middlesex Filter Beds Nature Reserve. Created by artist Paula Haughney and unveiled in 1990, Nature’s Throne isn’t your typical artwork. It’s constructed from massive granite blocks, remnants of the former Victoria Engine House’s foundations. These stones, etched and shaped into unique forms, create a captivating circle. At the heart of this ring sits the “throne” itself. It’s a large, imposing seat that invites interaction. Imagine children scrambling up its sides, momentarily ruling their granite kingdom. The stones surrounding the throne feature intricate carvings of local flora and fauna, a testament to the nature reserve’s vibrant ecosystem. Nature’s Throne is more than just a sculpture. It represents the area’s transformation from industrial hub to natural haven. The Middlesex Filter Beds, operational from the 1850s until 1969, once purified London’s water. Now, the site teems with life, a sanctuary for herons, woodpeckers, and butterflies. Nature’s Throne stands as a reminder of this remarkable evolution, a unique blend of art and history within London’s urban landscape.