Statue of Charles James Fox, Bronze statue in Bloomsbury Square, England
The Statue of Charles James Fox is a bronze sculpture in Bloomsbury Square depicting a seated man dressed in Roman senator robes. He holds a document representing the Magna Carta, and sits on a tall granite pedestal inscribed with information about the political figure.
The sculpture was created by Richard Westmacott in 1814 to honor this British Whig statesman who supported American independence. Fox was equally known for his opposition to the slave trade, reasons that led to his commemoration in this important city.
The statue shows Fox as a thinking figure rather than a commanding leader, reflecting how people saw him as an intellectual voice in politics. Visitors notice how he sits among the trees and paths of the square, almost as if still engaged in debate.
The monument sits at the north end of Bloomsbury Square Gardens, easily reached on foot in the heart of the city. The public garden is open during daytime hours, offering a comfortable setting to view the sculpture and read the inscriptions on the pedestal.
Westmacott chose to show Fox seated rather than standing as a way to present his physical appearance with appropriate respect and dignity. This unusual choice made the work memorable and set it apart from many other monuments throughout the city.
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