British Lion, detail of Frampton's Monument to Edith Cavell

British Lion (detail, Cavell Memorial)

Sir George Frampton, R.A.

1920

Rough grey granite

St Martin's Place

Other Views

The Edith Cavell Monument (front view)

Close-up of figure

Photograph, caption and commentary by Jacqueline Banerjee, 2009.

[You may use this image without prior permission for any scholarly or educational purpose as long as you (1) credit the photographer and (2) link your document to this URL.]

The British Lion is shown on the back of the granite cross which supplies the setting for Edith Cavell's figure. Symbolic of strength such as hers, it is shown "trampling on a serpent, symbolical of Envy, Malice, Spite and Treachery" ("The Edith Cavell Memorial" 189). Before her execution, Cavell is reported to have said to the chaplain who visited her, "Patriotism is not enough. I must have no hatred or bitterness for anyone"; these words were added to the front of the pedestal in 1924 (Baker 11).

References

Baker, Margaret. London Statues and Monuments. 4th ed. Princes Risborough: Shire, 1995.

"The Edith Cavell Memorial: The Unveiling of the Statue." The British Journal of Nursing. 27 March 1920, 189-90. Available offsite here.

Last modified 26 May 2009