Queen's Statue Debate: Equestrian vs Standing

0:00On April 21st, campaigners are up in arms over the switch from a grand equestrian statue of Queen Elizabeth II to a simpler standing bronze, figure that many say looks nothing like her. The new design shows the young monarch in her garter robes unveiled to mark the 100th anniversary of her birth. It'll stand in St. James's Park, in a spot called Queen Elizabeth II place, overlooking the mall, alongside a smaller statue of Prince, Philip in his naval uniform. The sculpture comes from artist Martin Jennings, drawing from a 1955 portrait, and both figures will sit on a 7-meter plinth. Officials are also rebamping the area with a glass bridge inspired by the Queen's wedding tiara, a memorial path, and a wind sculpture for the Commonwealth. The old Marbro gate gets a makeover too, all set to transform the park. Queen Charles called the design fantastic, after viewing a model, praising the bridges tiara vibe and subtle night lighting. Queen Camilla loved its twinkle, and the Duchess of Edinburgh said it captures the queen

1:04as a young woman just how she'd want. But social media and experts like Stephen Bailey, from the Royal Fine Art Commission Trust, are pushing back hard. They argue the horse-mounted version fits her heroic troop, leading rides down the mall for 34 years, giving a majestic feel that's standing. News often lack. Critics call the new one, boring and cheap looking, insisting she deserves that monumental equestrian tribute in such a key spot. Refinements are still coming during sculpting, with the full memorial slated for completion in 2028. This debate keeps the Queen's legacy front and center, as London shakes her lasting mark.