King Edward VII Statue
Aberdeen’s most elaborate granite sculpture was designed by Alfred Drury RA and carved by James Philip.
On a plinth of polished red Peterhead granite the sovereign holds a sceptre with the cross and an orb. Edward wears the robes of the Order of the Garter, the most senior and oldest order of British chivalry. Below the statue is a bronze ornamental frieze.
To the left is the figure of peace, Britannia, breaking a sword. In the centre stands Scotland’s patron saint, Andrew and his shield. Positioned on the right are three figures called “Imperial Unity”. Britannia is seated centrally with her left arm encircling a figure emblematic of the Indian and African peoples. A third figure representing Canada and Australia extends a hand of friendship to be kissed by “The Mother of Nations”.
The motto “Honi soit qui mal y pense” translates as “shame on him who thinks this evil”.
