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Lion statue, Highgate Cemetery OP04501
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Lion statue, Highgate Cemetery OP04501
HIGHGATE CEMETERY, London. A snow covered, marble statue of a sleeping lion. The statue, lying on top of George Wombwells tomb in Highgate Cemetery depicts Nero his pet lion. Photographed by John Gay in 1984
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Media ID 1398345
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Animal Cemetery Grave Yard Sculpture Snow Statue
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. Title: A Winter's Slumber: The Marble Lion of Highgate Cemetery Highgate Cemetery in London, a renowned Victorian burial ground, is home to numerous intriguing tombs and sculptures, each with its unique story. Among them lies George Wombwell's tomb, where a magnificent marble statue of a sleeping lion, named Nero, guards the final resting place of the famous 19th-century showman. Photographed by John Gay in 1984, this evocative image captures the tranquil beauty of the cemetery under a blanket of snow. The statue, with its grandiose presence, stands out against the wintry backdrop, its marble surface glistening under the pale winter sun. Nero, the lion, lies on his side, his head resting on his paw, as if in a deep, peaceful slumber. George Wombwell, a popular figure during his time, was an English showman who exhibited exotic animals, including lions and tigers, for public entertainment. His menagerie was a significant attraction in London during the early 1800s. The lion statue, a testament to Wombwell's connection with the animal kingdom, was erected in his memory after his death in 1854. The snow-covered statue of Nero in Highgate Cemetery not only adds an ethereal charm to the cemetery but also serves as a reminder of the rich history and fascinating tales that lie within its boundaries. This photograph by John Gay is a captivating glimpse into the past, a moment frozen in time, and a tribute to the enduring allure of the cemetery's enigmatic inhabitants.
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