Bronze reflects the light around the Princess Diana Statue. Here before you stands a tribute to a woman who touched the world. This is the Princess Diana Statue. It is located in the Sunken Garden of Kensington Palace.
This statue commemorates Diana, Princess of Wales. It was commissioned by her sons William and Harry. They wanted to mark the 20th anniversary of her death. The statue was unveiled on July 1, 2021. This date would have been her 60th birthday.
Sculptor Ian Rank-Broadley designed the Princess Diana Statue. He is also responsible for the designs of British coins. The statue shows Diana surrounded by three children. These children represent the universality and generational impact of her work. Diana worked with many children’s charities. She was a patron of the Great Ormond Street Hospital for sick children.
Princes William and Harry said they hoped the statue would allow visitors to Kensington Palace to reflect on their mother’s life and legacy. The money for the statue was raised through public donations. A committee of close friends and advisors worked on the project. This included Diana’s older sister, Lady Sarah McCorquodale.
The Sunken Garden was redesigned by Pip Morrison for the unveiling. Five gardeners planted over 4,000 flowers. These included many forget-me-nots, Diana’s favorite flower. Other flowers included roses, tulips, lavender, dahlias, and sweet peas.
A paving stone in front of the Princess Diana Statue features an extract from a poem. It is from The Measure of a Man by Wallace Gallaher. The poem was previously used at the memorial service for the 10th anniversary of Diana’s death in 2007. The extract reads: “These are the units to measure the worth of this woman as a woman regardless of birth. Not what was her station? But had she a heart? How did she play her God-given part?”
The statue is eight feet tall. It portrays Diana in the final period of her life. This was when she gained confidence as an ambassador for humanitarian causes. Kensington Palace stated the statue aims to convey her character and compassion.
Not everyone loved the statue. Some critics felt it did not capture her beauty and glamour. Others praised it as a beautiful representation. Despite mixed reviews, the Princess Diana Statue remains a popular attraction.
Diana lived at Kensington Palace for over 15 years. She loved the Sunken Garden. She often spent time there with her children. Her sons chose this spot as a suitable place for the tribute.
The statue can be viewed from the Cradle Walk surrounding the garden. You can take photos, but only from a distance. The Sunken Garden is usually open from Wednesday to Sunday. It is generally open from 9:30 am to 5:45 pm.
The inclusion of the three children is significant. It is to pay homage to Diana’s ability to bond with people. It especially honors her connection with young ones. Before marrying Prince Charles, Diana worked as a nursery teacher’s assistant.
The Princess Diana Statue stands as a lasting symbol. It represents her life, her legacy, and her love for humanity. It serves as a place for reflection and remembrance. It is a place where people can honor the Queen of Hearts.