In a heartwarming tribute to the United Kingdom's longest-reigning monarch, a memorial statue of Queen Elizabeth II was recently unveiled in the charming town of Oakham, England. Crafted by sculptor Hywel Pratley, the statue stands at an impressive seven feet and is cast in bronze, depicting the queen in her regal attire, accompanied by her three cherished corgis.
This unveiling marks the beginning of a series of memorials across Britain, aiming to honor the queen eighteen months following her passing. Various towns and institutions have started to erect statues in remembrance of the queen, with several more expected to be revealed in the coming months. These include a statue in Newcastle-under-Lyme by Andy Edwards, which shows the queen smiling and holding flowers, and two sculptures by Amy Goodman, one featuring the queen waving and smiling.
Some of these projects had been initiated prior to the queen’s death, but recent commissions strive to capture her approachable nature. "She was an almost motherly figure," said Pratley in an interview, emphasizing the queen's endearing and relatable qualities.
The Oakham statue, in particular, encourages public interaction, becoming a focal point for engagement. During the unveiling, numerous corgi owners and their pets attended, celebrating the queen’s memory in a communal spirit.
The funding for this statue, amounting to £140,000, was raised through public contributions, showcasing the deep affection and respect that citizens hold for Queen Elizabeth II.
Jean Dubreil