This was one of the most popular attractions at the 1888 International Exhibition in Kelvingrove Park, a landmark event that attracted over 5.7m visitors.
The Doulton fountain is the largest fountain ever constructed in
ceramic.
Queen Victoria forms the apex of the elaborate three-tiered
structure. Below, four groups of figures represent the peoples of
Britain's colonies in Canada, South Africa, Australia and
India. They are accompanied by four water carriers and four
servicemen representing the Black Watch, the Grenadier Guards, the
Royal Navy and the Irish Fusiliers. The inscriptions and figures on
the lowest basin celebrate Glasgow.
Modelled by a team of sculptors, the remarkable ensemble
was presented to the City by Sir Henry Doulton. After
some debate a site close to the west entrance of Glasgow Green
was chosen. The fountain was positioned so that Queen Victoria
faced the Justiciary Courthouse. The
fountain was formally launched in August 1890. Speaking at the
opening, The Lord Provost called it, '..an alliance of the useful
and beautiful'. Doulton emphasised, 'that here the artist has
combined with the engineer in giving you a very beautiful
work....It symbolises the greatness and glory of our empire.'
By the 1990s the fountain was in very poor condition. It was
moved to its present site in 2005 following extensive
restoration.
Also at Glasgow Green (Back to listing)