Rights Managed > Historic England > More features > Festivals and Exhibitions > Festival of Britain 1951
South Bank Lion JRU01_01_129
Filename: jru01_01_129.jpg
Size: 4057 x 5538 (1.8MB)
Date: 20th August 2021
Source: Historic England
Credit: A© Historic England Archive
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Job Title: Photographer
© Historic England Archive
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
South Bank Lion JRU01_01_129
South Bank Lion, York Road, Lambeth, Greater London. The South Bank Lion on a plinth outside the York Road entrance of Waterloo Station, viewed from the west.
The South Bank Lion, or Red Lion, stood on the parapet of the Lion Brewery on the south bank of the River Thames near Hungerford Bridge. The sculpture was created in 1837 by William Frederick Woodington. The lion is formed from separate parts, visible in this photograph, using Coade stone. The Lion Brewery on Belvedere Road was demolished in 1949, having been damaged by fire in 1931; the site was used as the South Bank Exhibition for the Festival of Britain in 1951. The sculpture was removed before the demolition of the brewery and, having likely been painted red previously, was restored and repainted. It was positioned on a plinth outside the York Road entrance of Waterloo Station until 1966, when it was moved to the east end of Westminster Bridge in Lambeth and was stripped of its red paint. The scultpture is Grade II* listed
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Media ID 22656134
© Historic England Archive
Animals Art And Design Post Medieval Sculpture Statue
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print captures the majestic South Bank Lion, a symbol of strength and resilience, standing proudly on a plinth outside the York Road entrance of Waterloo Station in Lambeth, Greater London. Originally perched atop the parapet of the Lion Brewery near Hungerford Bridge, this iconic sculpture was crafted by William Frederick Woodington in 1837 using Coade stone. The lion's intricate design is revealed in this photograph as it is composed of separate parts meticulously put together. Once painted red and overlooking the River Thames, it witnessed significant historical events until its relocation due to demolition plans for the brewery. Fortunately, before its removal, the sculpture underwent restoration and repainting. In 1966, after being displayed at Waterloo Station for several years, the South Bank Lion found its new home at Westminster Bridge in Lambeth. However, during this transition period, it lost its vibrant red hue but retained its timeless charm. Today, this remarkable piece of art holds Grade II* listed status and continues to captivate passersby with its regal presence. It serves as a reminder of London's rich history and enduring spirit while adding an air of grandeur to its surroundings. J R Uppington skillfully captured this momentous image that not only showcases the beauty and craftsmanship behind the South Bank Lion but also immortalizes an important part of London's heritage for generations to come.
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