Statue of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, Antrim explained

A statue of Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh was unveiled in the gardens of Antrim Castle in September 2024. It was sculpted by Anto Brennan.[1]

It is sculpted in bronze and depicts Queen Elizabeth II with her consort, Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and two of their Welsh Corgi dogs. The queen's relationship with corgis was renowned.[1]

The statue was proposed in January 2023.[1] It was unveiled on 6 September 2024 in a ceremony attended by David McCorkell, Lord Lieutenant of Antrim, and Paul Dunlop, the Deputy Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey.[2] Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council wrote that the statue "captures Her Majesty in a dignified pose, reflecting her grace, steadfastness and lifelong dedication to public service".[2]

Since its unveiling, the statue has been critically poorly received and has attracted disparaging remarks regarding the likeness of the two figures to their subjects.[1]

Notes and References

  1. News: Kidd. Faye. 'It's not good': New royal statue divides opinion. 11 September 2024. BBC News. 11 September 2024.
  2. Web site: Sculpture of Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council website. Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. 11 September 2024.