The South Bank Lion: London’s Enduring Symbol of Strength and Heritage

Origins and Artistic Craftsmanship

The South Bank Lion was sculpted in 1837 by William Frederick Woodington, a notable sculptor and later curator of the Royal Academy’s School of Sculpture. Crafted from Coade stone, an artificial ceramic stoneware renowned for its durability and weather resistance, the lion was originally mounted on the parapet of James Goding’s Lion Brewery on the Lambeth bank of the River Thames. The brewery, founded in 1836, was a major exporter of ales during the 19th century. This lion, weighing approximately 13 tonnes, was cast in parts at the nearby Coade Stone Works and assembled on an iron frame, a testament to the industrial craftsmanship of the era.

A Symbol Through Turbulent Times

The lion witnessed the brewery’s prosperity and its decline after a devastating fire in 1931. When the brewery was demolished in 1949 to make way for the Royal Festival Hall, the lion was at risk of destruction. However, thousands of Londoners petitioned for its preservation, and King George VI personally intervened to save the statue. During the Festival of Britain in 1951, the lion was painted red, symbolizing British Rail’s mascot, and placed near Waterloo Station. This period marked the lion’s transformation into a symbol of hope and patriotism, famously inspiring the wartime saying, “So long as the lion stands, London will stand.”

Relocation and Legacy

In 1966, the lion was moved to its current location on a large granite plinth at the south end of Westminster Bridge, adjacent to County Hall. The red paint was removed, restoring the lion’s pristine white appearance, showcasing the remarkable longevity of Coade stone. The plinth bears the simple inscription “The South Bank Lion,” inviting admiration from passersby. The lion’s presence here offers a commanding view of the Thames and the iconic Houses of Parliament across the river, linking it visually and symbolically to London’s historic heart.

Connections to Other Lions and Cultural Impact

The Lion Brewery originally featured three Coade stone lions. One stands gilded at the west gate of Twickenham Stadium, presented to the Rugby Football Union in 1971 and covered in gold leaf for the 1991 Rugby World Cup. Another lion, once on an arched gateway, was lost before the brewery’s demolition. The South Bank Lion is often compared with the four lions guarding Nelson’s Column in Trafalgar Square, underscoring its significance as a heraldic and cultural icon of London.

Material and Conservation Significance

Made of Coade stone, the lion is an exceptional example of 19th-century ceramic stoneware that resists weathering far better than natural stone. This material choice has allowed the lion to retain its detailed features and glossy finish despite nearly two centuries of exposure to London’s atmospheric conditions. Conservation efforts have maintained its condition, ensuring that this historic sculpture remains a vivid and enduring symbol of the city’s industrial heritage and artistic achievement.

Present-Day Experience and Symbolism

Today, the South Bank Lion stands as a proud sentinel at Westminster Bridge, embodying London’s resilience, history, and spirit. Its commanding stance and glossy white coat invite reflection on the city’s past, from Victorian industry to wartime endurance. The lion’s proximity to major landmarks and the River Thames makes it a memorable focal point for visitors seeking to connect with London’s rich cultural tapestry and architectural grandeur.