Queen Elizabeth II statue sparks backlash over 'hideous' design
A bronze statue in honour of Queen Elizabeth II has been unveiled in County Antrim, Northern Ireland. The deceased monarch is depicted alongside Prince Philip and corgis. However, the unveiling of the statue has sparked considerable controversy. "It looks hideous. Melt it down," wrote internet users.
Queen Elizabeth II passed away on 8 September 2022 in Balmoral, Scotland. During her many years of reign, she was the subject of thousands of paintings and sculptures, eliciting both admiration and controversy. The same can be said for the latest statue of the Queen, Prince Philip, and two corgis, which has been erected in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.
New statue of Queen Elizabeth II
Artist Anto Brennan created the new statue of Queen Elizabeth II. It is one of the first sculptures to commemorate the Queen after her death. Its unveiling took place on Friday, September 6, just before the second anniversary of the British monarch's passing.
According to the artist's vision, Queen Elizabeth II is "gazing into the distance." She is wearing a tweed skirt, rubber boots, a checkered waistcoat, and a headscarf. She also has a handbag slung over her left shoulder. Behind her stands the figure of her husband, Prince Philip. At her feet are two beloved corgis that accompanied her for most of her life.
Controversy surrounding the statue of Elizabeth II
According to city council representatives who spoke to CNN, those who saw the statue in person warmly received it in honour of Queen Elizabeth II. However, it didn't elicit similar admiration online, where it has been commented on for several days.
"Melt it down and start again with a different sculptor," reads one of the comments.
Residents of Antrim who spoke to the BBC were of a similar opinion. "I would take it away," said one of them.
