Queen Elizabeth II: first posthumous statue unveiled

Charles III unveiled the statue for the first time since his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II, died in September.

A new sculpture in the English city of York was unveiled Wednesday outside York Minster, Britain’s largest Gothic cathedral, and pays tribute to the late monarch’s service and devoted life.

“When the statue was first planned five years ago, during a reign of unprecedented duration and achievement, it was intended as a celebration of the late Queen’s platinum jubilee.

“Now, as we have witnessed, with great sadness, the passing of that reign is manifested in her memory as a tribute to a life of extraordinary service and dedication,” he said. continued.

“The late Queen was always concerned with the welfare of her people throughout her life. Now her image will watch over what will become Queen Elizabeth Square for centuries to come,” he added. A purple cloth has been pulled down to cover the towering statue Overlooking York’s new public square from the top of one of the cathedral’s entrances.

Ahead of the unveiling ceremony, Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell called the “unique opportunity” a “very poignant moment” honoring “the longevity of the late Queen Elizabeth II and her service to the people, country and Commonwealth”. said it is.

The Queen died at the age of 96 on September 8, just months after celebrating her unprecedented 70th anniversary on the throne.

Her memorial was designed and carved by York Minster Mason Richard Bosson.

A French limestone sculpture shows the late Queen in garter robes, crowned with the crown of King George IV, and holding an orb and scepter, symbols of her role as head of church and state.

“She stands proudly and resolutely in her niche and welcomes admirers and visitors alike,” Bosson said in a statement.

damaged arrival

A 23-year-old man was arrested “on suspicion of violating public order and morals” after eggs were thrown at the King and Queen’s consorts during a visit to York early Wednesday, according to North Yorkshire Police.

There were no eggs for the royal family, who remained engaged and met with members of the local community.

The man was questioned and released on police bail, police said in an update Thursday.