Brass Founders' Pillar, Monument and category B listed building in Nicolson Square, Edinburgh, Scotland.
The Brass Founders' Pillar is a monument at Nicolson Square featuring a square bronze shaft divided into six tiers. The structure displays heraldic coats of arms across its levels and is topped with a statue of Tubal-cain, the biblical figure associated with metalworking.
The structure was originally created for the 1886 International Exhibition where it won a gold medal. It was later moved to Nicolson Square, damaged during a storm in 1968, then restored and reopened in 1976.
The pillar shows the craftsmanship pride of Edinburgh's brass founding trade through detailed bronze work and sculptural elements. The different tiers display coats of arms that connect to local guild traditions and professional heritage.
The pillar stands at the east end of Nicolson Square Gardens facing Nicolson Street. It is easy to reach on foot and clearly visible from the surrounding area.
The artist John Stevenson Rhind created the detailed bronze work and the Tubal-cain statue, giving the memorial artistic significance. The work was later restored by students from Telford College after the 1968 storm, becoming a notable example of hands-on restoration.
Location: City of Edinburgh
Location: Edinburgh
Architects: James Gowans
Creator: John Stevenson Rhind
Website: https://canmore.org.uk/site/118660/edinburgh-nicolson-square-brass-founders-pillar
GPS coordinates: 55.94600,-3.18539
Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:01
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