Victoria Memorial
By: Sir Aston Webb and Thomas Brock
White marble and bronze
82’ tall in total; Bronze statues stand 13’ high
London, England; Buckingham Palace
The Queen Victoria memorial is settled at the center of Queen’s Gardens directly in front of Buckingham Palace’s entrance. Completed in 1911, it was made of more than 2,300 tons of white marble. The large state of Queen Vitoria rests at the top facing north-eastwards toward The Mall. On either side of the monument feature dark bronze statues of three angels: the Angel of Justice, the Angel of Truth and the Angel of Charity. On the pinnacle is Victory with two seated figures, Courage and Constancy, the figures were a gift from the people of New Zealand. Because of this topping, the memorial has become known as the “wedding cake” by its illustrious decoration. The entire sculpture displays a nautical theme that matches the rest of the mall, which suggest the United Kingdom’s naval power. Standing around 82’ tall, the structure was underway in 1911 soon after the death of the queen and completed in 1911. It is the largest monument to a monarch in England. The Angel of Truth may be Amitiel, known for assisting in encouraging humans to find the truth in our desires and experiences and to use these truths as learning experiences rather than to be in denial. The Angel of Justice may be Nemamiah, who some consider to be an archangel, the protector of those who struggle for justice and for the right of those who cannot defend themselves. Nemamiah also inspires empathy into our hearts. Finally, the Angel of Charity may be Zadkiel, who radiates comfort to those who are in grieving, afraid or abounded. He is considered an Archangel and is said to be the angel in the Bible who prevented Abraham from sacrificing his own son to God. The memorial is best seen at night, when it is lit up and the contrasting metal and marble shows the magnificent statue in its full glory.
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