Statue of Edward VI, Grade II listed statue at St Thomas' Hospital, London, England
Description
The Statue of Edward VI is carved from Purbeck marble and depicts the king in Tudor dress holding a scepter and the hospital's charter document. It stands on a contemporary plinth at the North Wing entrance of St Thomas' Hospital facing Lambeth Palace Road.
History
Thomas Cartwright carved this marble figure in 1682 during the hospital's reconstruction under Sir Robert Clayton. It commemorates Edward VI's decision to reestablish the hospital in 1551 after it had been shuttered during the Dissolution of religious properties.
Culture
The statue marks a significant moment when royal authority helped establish medical care that continues to this day. Visitors can see how a young king's decision shaped an institution that still serves the neighborhood.
Practical
The statue is located at the north side of St Thomas' Hospital and can be easily viewed from Lambeth Palace Road. Visitors have the best view from street level, and the area is accessible during regular hospital hours.
Did you know?
The statue was originally accompanied by sculptures of disabled people that are now displayed at the Science Museum. These companion figures reflect how attitudes toward care and medical support have evolved over the centuries.
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