A council has defended a new statue commemorating Queen Elizabeth II after some online critics questioned its likeness to the late monarch.
The bronze sculpture, created by artist Anto Brennan, has received mixed reviews from members of the public since it was unveiled in Antrim Castle Gardens in Northern Ireland last Friday.
It was commissioned by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and is said to "capture Her Majesty in a dignified pose, reflecting her grace, steadfastness and lifelong dedication to public service."
In response to the attention generated by the statue, the council acknowledged that art can prompt “diverse opinions” but said it was "delighted" with the "generally positive" response.
A new statue, created by artist Anto Brennan, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II
Handout via PA
However, comments under the post disagreed. One wrote: "More of an insult than a tribute, looks absolutely horrendous to be perfectly honest" while another added: "It's actually an insult to Her Majesty's memory, looks nothing like her."
Others had a more humorous approach, saying it looked "more like Mrs Doubtfire" than the late Queen, a reference to the 1993 Robin Williams film.
Other insults included "ridiculous", "blooming awful", and "not fit for purpose" with several criticising the council for commissioning the sculpture.
The council insisted that social media “may amplify certain negative viewpoints”.
The unveiling of a new statue, created by artist Anto Brennan, to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II and installed in Antrim Castle Gardens
Handout via PA
DUP councillor John Smyth, who was among those who attended the unveiling last week, said he was "surprised" when he first saw the sculpture. The councillor for Antrim town said: "I’m glad to say I wasn’t on the committee that designed it, as such."
Asked what he thought of the sculpture, he said: “Surprising, probably. It looked OK from a distance. I thought the facial could be slightly better. Compared to the Duke of Edinburgh statue, which I was involved in, (which) I’d say is a better one.
“It has more likeness (to the Prince), and definitely looks well. It’s like any work in bronze, it’s hard to make anything a perfect replica of any person. It’s quite hard to cast. And to also cast the Duke of Edinburgh one, so it’s a hard job.
“(The Queen) had a smaller stature, so even though she was an important lady, she has a smaller statue and frame. It has the handbag and the Scottish-style clothing. They’ve tried their best to get it as near perfect as possible but it’s a hard job. You can’t change it now once it’s done. Once you cast the bronze statue, that’s it."
Queen Elizabeth II has a small stature
PAIn a statement Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council said: “The council is delighted with the generally positive response to the new Queen Elizabeth II sculpture in Antrim Castle Gardens. It acknowledges that art can sometimes spark diverse opinions, but it’s important to emphasise that the sculpture has been warmly received by most who have seen it in person.
"The statue beautifully captures Her Majesty’s grace and steadfastness, standing as a fitting tribute to her extraordinary life and reign. The council is particularly pleased with how the sculpture complements its surroundings, standing adjacent to the statue of Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, and accompanied by two lovingly crafted corgis.
“This thoughtful arrangement has resonated strongly with visitors, who appreciate the personal touch it brings to the memorial, within the Gardens. While social media may amplify certain negative viewpoints, the council encourages everyone to visit Antrim Castle Gardens and experience the sculpture first hand.
“The sculpture stands as a lasting tribute to Her Majesty’s remarkable legacy, and the council is proud to have it as part of the community’s cultural landscape. The positive sentiments shared by the majority of residents and visitors reflect the sculpture’s success in honouring Queen Elizabeth II’s memory and her enduring impact on the nation.”
