Horse Statues From Around The World – Marble Arch (London)

On our recent trip to UK and Europe, we came across many, many stunning sculptures of horses wherever we went. Tourist around the world admire these horse statues but know little about them and how they came to be there. We were curious to learn more about them and hope you enjoy these titbits of information on each one. In this series, we start off in London….

Statue Name:       “Still Water” (2011)
Location:                Marble Arch, London UK
Size:                        33′ high bronze sculpture
Weight:                   6 tonne
Breed:                     Marwari
Sculpture:              Nic Fiddian-Green

This magnificent bronze statue is of a horse’s head appearing to be relaxing and sipping water and is an understatement to say it is BIG. Apparently it is the tallest free-standing bronze statue in the city of London.

This statue was unveiled in June 2009 and was only supposed to be there for 28 days but somehow has been forgotten and is to the benefit and delight of all who visit Marble Arch.

The sculpture, Nic Fiddian-Green, was so upset about the pigeons making a mess on his landmark that he got a cherry-picker to lift him up and clean it himself!

“This classically inspired sculpture resonates a sense of wonder through its sheer monumentality and beauty and I sincerely hope it will inspire the people of London as they pass it by…”
Nic Fiddian-Green (getSurrey.co.uk)

Nic has created many sculptures of horses, and the one of these works ‘Horse at Water’ that was previously at Marble Arch and is now homed in Australia. “Horse at Water” can be found at Woollahra Municipal Council and this stunning 2.75cm tall bronze sculpture adorns the brick facade for all to see and admire.

Note: Marwari horse is a rare breed of horse from Marwar a region in India and its history goes as far back as the 12th century when it was used as a cavalry horse. This horse is easily recognised by its inward-turning ear tips which assist in avoiding the desert winds and sands. This horse was known for its strength in battle and has also been used for draught and agricultural work. The exportation of Marwaris was banned for decades, but some small number exports have happened in recent years.