Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Set to Feature Standing Statue
In a significant update to the national memorial for the late Queen Elizabeth II, the design has been revised to depict the monarch standing, rather than on horseback as previously illustrated. The memorial, which includes three statues and a tiara-shaped glass balustrade for a bridge, is set to be constructed in St James's Park in central London, near Buckingham Palace.
Design Update: A Standing Monarch
The main statue, designed by sculptor Martin Jennings, will emphasize Queen Elizabeth II's role as head of state and will follow a sculptural tradition that shows kings and queens from the House of Windsor in a standing position. The decision to have the statue standing was made after careful research and thought, according to Jennings.
"After careful research and thought, my design for the Queen's monument will emphasise her role as head of state and proudly follows a sculptural tradition that shows kings and queens from the House of Windsor in a standing position," said Jennings.
Earlier Illustrations Were for Size and Scale
The previous illustrations showing the Queen on horseback were for illustrative purposes only, intended to show the size, scale, and location rather than the final design. The Cabinet Office has confirmed that the final design will feature a standing statue.
Location and Surroundings
The statue will be located near the Marlborough Gate in St James's Park and will be close to memorials to the late Queen's parents, King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, who are also depicted standing and wearing formal robes. The area will also include a statue of her husband, Prince Philip, designed by Karen Newman, who has previously created waxwork models at Madame Tussauds.
Karen Newman's Contribution
Karen Newman, who has made sculptures of notable figures such as actor Charles Dance and Second World War heroines Noor Inayat Khan and Violette Szabo, expressed her honor in being chosen for the project. "She was an iconic and unifying figure in our national story. I am very much looking forward to portraying the strong and complex personality of our late Queen," said Newman.
Lord Norman Foster, the architect leading the design team, praised Newman's talent and sensitivity, stating, "Her talent and sensitivity will bring a profound sense of dignity to the work."
Project Timeline and Budget
The final design for the memorial is set to be made public in April 2026, coinciding with the centenary of the late Queen's birth. The project has a budget ranging between £23m and £46m, which has drawn criticism from the anti-monarchy group, Republic, who argue that the royals should pay for the monument rather than the government.
A Lasting Tribute
The memorial, which also includes a glass balustrade on a bridge across a lake, commemorative gardens, and other sculptures, is expected to be a lasting tribute to Queen Elizabeth II's legacy. The design reflects her love for horses while also emphasizing her role as the head of state, ensuring that the monument is both historically significant and emotionally resonant.
