The Queen’s Beasts, Westminster Abbey 1953
$20.00 $10.00
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This authentic 1950s colour photograph captures a detailed view of one of the original “Queen’s Beasts” sculptures created for the Coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. The sculpture, identified by its base plinth as “The Dragon of the Tudors” (traditionally the Red Dragon of Wales), is depicted in a seated position holding an ornate heraldic shield featuring red lions on a gold and red field. Sculpted by James Woodford, the beast is made of plaster with a stone-like finish and was part of a line of ten such heraldic figures that stood outside the temporary annexe of Westminster Abbey. The background shows the etched glass windows of the Coronation annexe, which featured floral motifs including the leek, shamrock, and thistle. This archival record is an exceptional resource for heraldry enthusiasts and historians, or to print for yourself as a unique piece of British royal history.
About Retro Stock Photography
Retro Stock Photography specializes in genuine vintage color photographs from the 1950s through the 1990s, all available as royalty-free instant downloads. Our photos are popular for editorial features, books, magazines, websites, documentaries, advertising, social media, local history projects, creative design, and as unique gifts when printed.
All of our images are scanned directly from original slides and negatives, preserving their authenticity, detail, and character. And because we own the original photographs and copyrights, all of our collection is exclusive to us and not available elsewhere.
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