The Ox by Olivia Musgrave: A Bronze Emblem of Oxford’s Heritage
A majestic bronze ox by Olivia Musgrave, symbolizing Oxford’s heritage and welcoming visitors at the city’s railway station.
The Ox is a striking bronze sculpture by Olivia Musgrave, standing over three meters tall outside Oxford railway station. Commissioned by the Said Business School in 2001 to celebrate its opening, the statue depicts an English Longhorn ox crossing water, symbolizing the origin of Oxford’s name. This iconic public artwork serves as a welcoming emblem for visitors and a proud symbol of the city’s cultural identity.
A brief summary to The Ox by Olivia Musgrave
- Oxford, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the detailed bronze craftsmanship and photograph the statue with natural light.
- Combine your visit with exploring nearby ox sculptures around Oxford city center as part of the OxTrail art installation.
- Learn about Olivia Musgrave’s artistic background to deepen your understanding of the sculpture’s mythological and historical influences.
- Take a moment to reflect on the symbolism of the ox crossing water, connecting the sculpture to Oxford’s origins.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
From Oxford Bus Station, take bus number 1 towards the city center. Disembark at the St. Aldate's stop, then walk approximately 10 minutes on flat terrain to reach The Ox statue. Buses run frequently with tickets costing around £2-£3.
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Walking
From Oxford city center (Cornmarket Street), a 20-minute walk on paved, level streets leads north towards the railway station area where The Ox is located. The route is accessible and suitable for most travelers.
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Train
Arrive directly at Oxford railway station, where The Ox stands prominently outside. This is the most convenient access point for visitors coming from other cities, with frequent train services and station facilities available.
The Ox by Olivia Musgrave location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Ox by Olivia Musgrave
A Symbol Rooted in Oxford’s History
The Ox sculpture by Olivia Musgrave embodies the deep historical roots of Oxford. Its design reflects the city’s name, which originates from the Old English term for a place where oxen crossed a river. The statue portrays an English Longhorn ox, one of the oldest cattle breeds native to England, depicted mid-step as if crossing water. This powerful imagery connects the present-day city with its medieval origins and agricultural past.Artistic Vision and Creation
Olivia Musgrave, an acclaimed sculptor born in Dublin in 1958, created The Ox as a life-size bronze masterpiece. The work was commissioned by the Said Business School to mark the inauguration of their building in 2001 and was unveiled in December 2002. Musgrave, trained at the City & Guilds of London Art School, is known for her figurative bronze sculptures inspired by mythology and life. The casting process took three months, and the full creation spanned six months. The statue’s installation was notable for the crane lifting it by its tail into place, a testament to its impressive scale and weight.A Landmark and Community Icon
Standing prominently outside Oxford railway station, The Ox quickly became a beloved local landmark. Its imposing presence greets visitors arriving by train, serving as a cultural ambassador for the city. The statue is accessible and relatable, symbolizing strength and resilience. It also ties into a wider artistic tradition in Oxfordshire, where painted ox sculptures form part of an art trail celebrating local heritage. The Ox appears on Oxford’s coat of arms and as the badge of Oxford United football club, reinforcing its emblematic status.The Artist’s Broader Legacy
Olivia Musgrave is a distinguished figure in contemporary sculpture, with a career spanning several decades. Her works often draw on mythology and the human form, influenced by 20th-century Italian sculptors. She is a Fellow of the Royal Society of British Sculptors and President of the Society of Portrait Sculptors. The Ox stands as one of her most prominent public commissions, blending artistic excellence with civic pride.Experiencing The Ox Today
Visitors to Oxford can admire The Ox year-round, as it is located in an open public space accessible at all times. The statue’s bronze surface gleams in daylight and invites close inspection of its detailed craftsmanship. It is a favored photo spot and a memorable introduction to the city’s rich cultural tapestry. Nearby, other ox sculptures and historic landmarks enrich the visitor experience, making The Ox a key highlight of Oxford’s urban landscape.Symbolism and Cultural Significance
Beyond its physical form, The Ox represents the enduring connection between Oxford’s past and present. It stands as a metaphor for the city’s strength, endurance, and welcoming spirit. The statue’s presence at a major transport hub underscores Oxford’s role as a crossroads of knowledge and tradition, bridging history with modernity through art.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Unique
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Minimalist Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Car-Free Access
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
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For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
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- Child Friendly
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