Rights Managed > Historic England > Historic Images > Famed Photographers > John Gay Collection (1945-1990)
Lion statue, Highgate Cemetery OP04501
Filename: op04501.jpg
Size: 3860 x 4891 (5.0MB)
Date: 4th February 2009
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England Archive
Source: English Heritage Images
Job Title: Photographer
© Historic England
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Lion statue, Highgate Cemetery OP04501
HIGHGATE CEMETERY, London. A snow covered, marble statue of a sleeping lion. The statue, lying on top of George Wombwells tomb in Highgate Cemetery depicts Nero his pet lion. Photographed by John Gay in 1984
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 1398345
© Historic England
Animal Cemetery Grave Yard Sculpture Snow Statue
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Historic Images
> Famed Photographers
> John Gay Collection (1945-1990)
> Seasons
> Seasons: Winter
> Christmas
> Seasons
> Seasons: Winter
> Snow
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: A Winter's Slumber: The Marble Lion of Highgate Cemetery Highgate Cemetery in London, a renowned Victorian burial ground, is home to numerous intriguing tombs and sculptures, each with its unique story. Among them lies George Wombwell's tomb, where a magnificent marble statue of a sleeping lion, named Nero, guards the final resting place of the famous 19th-century showman. Photographed by John Gay in 1984, this evocative image captures the tranquil beauty of the cemetery under a blanket of snow. The statue, with its grandiose presence, stands out against the wintry backdrop, its marble surface glistening under the pale winter sun. Nero, the lion, lies on his side, his head resting on his paw, as if in a deep, peaceful slumber. George Wombwell, a popular figure during his time, was an English showman who exhibited exotic animals, including lions and tigers, for public entertainment. His menagerie was a significant attraction in London during the early 1800s. The lion statue, a testament to Wombwell's connection with the animal kingdom, was erected in his memory after his death in 1854. The snow-covered statue of Nero in Highgate Cemetery not only adds an ethereal charm to the cemetery but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and fascinating tales that lie within its boundaries. This photograph by John Gay is a captivating glimpse into the past, a moment frozen in time, and a tribute to the enduring allure of the cemetery's enigmatic inhabitants.
MADE IN THE USA
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
FREE COLORIZATION SERVICE
You can choose advanced AI Colorization for this picture at no extra charge!
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Cart.
