Kings Cross
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Mary Evans Picture Library
Kings Cross
Intended as a monument to George IV, this building originally had a statue of him on top, but it was so dreadful that it was removed, as will be the cross itself in 1845
Mary Evans Picture Library makes available wonderful images created for people to enjoy over the centuries
Media ID 4412654
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10226601
1825 1845 Dreadful Intended Kings Originally Removed
EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: "The Disputed Monument of George IV at Kings Cross, London: A Historical Account of a Regal Blunder This evocative print, sourced from Mary Evans Prints Online, captures the intriguing history of the Kings Cross monument in London. Originally intended as a grand tribute to King George IV, the monument was designed and erected in the early 1820s, featuring a statue of the king atop a columned structure. However, the monarch's displeasure with the final product was palpable, as he deemed the statue "dreadful." Consequently, the statue was removed, leaving the monument without its intended regal crown. The monument, which was designed by the architect Decimus Burton, was built in the Classical style and was intended to serve as a gateway to the new railway station at Kings Cross. The project was commissioned by the London and Birmingham Railway Company, which aimed to connect the capital city with the industrial heartland of the Midlands. Despite the removal of the offending statue, the monument remained a source of controversy. The cost of the monument, which had already been paid for, was a significant financial burden for the railway company. Moreover, the cross itself was later removed in 1845 due to safety concerns. This print, which dates from circa 1850, offers a glimpse into the complex history of this once-regal monument. Its intriguing tale of royal displeasure, financial burden, and architectural controversy serves as a reminder of the intricacies of historical endeavors and the enduring allure of London's rich past. As we gaze upon this image, we are transported back in time, imagining the grandeur of the intended monument and the disappointment that followed. The Kings Cross monument stands as a testament to the capricious nature of history and the enduring power of architectural design. Image Reference: Mary Evans Picture Library, London, England. [Mary Evans/Alamy Stock Photo]
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