The Black Bull of Clarence

myminifactory

This sculpture showcases The Black Bull of Clarence, one of the Queen's Beasts that have become a celebrated part of British history. The original Queen’s Beasts are a set of ten magnificent heraldic statues created by renowned sculptor James Woodford for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation ceremony on 2 June 1953. These incredible works of art were later gifted to the Commonwealth and offered to Canada, which gratefully accepted them in 1959. Today, they proudly stand at the Canadian Museum of History in Quebec. However, in 1956, a duplicate set of Beasts was crafted by James Woodford out of Portland stone and presented to Kew as a gift. Visitors to the gardens now encounter these impressive sculptures when approaching the main entrance of the Palm House. The Black Bull of Clarence has an intriguing ancestry, tracing its way back to Edward IV through the Queen's family line. On display is the Royal Arms, which have been proudly borne by several notable figures in history, including Edward IV and his brother Richard III. Additionally, these symbols were also prominently featured on the coats of arms for all the Sovereigns of the Houses of Lancaster and Tudor.