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A stone figure clothed in Coronation robes and bearing an orb and sceptre. Carved from three blocks of stone, the statue is without a head, its metal armature exposed. It stands on a steep mound above a rock-faced ashlar base which surrounds the base of a mature oak. Although titled 'Albert the Good' is seems unlikely that the statue represents its namesake Prince Albert. In fact, it is not clear who the statue represents or when it was erected. Executed by 'J. Gibson', a sculptor or stonemason for whom no records are to be found (possibly John Gibson), its apparent lack of sculptural value perhaps accounts for the minor consideration afforded the work in Durham's archival records. The sculptor has paid scant attention to detailing in his carving of the stone: the drapery appears hard-edged; the hands are over-large, and the right leg seemingly disjointed from its hip.
Title
Albert the Good (The Mystery of Wharton Park)
Date
19th C
Medium
stone
Measurements
H 160 x W 55 x D 58 cm;
Plinth: H 200 x W 400 x D 480 cm
Accession number
DH1_KM_S016
Work type
Statue
Owner
City of Durham Parish Council
Custodian
City of Durham Parish Council
Work status
extant
Access
time restrictions apply
Access note
park opening times
Inscription description
inscribed on stone tablet below figure: ALBERT THE GOOD Incised in marble plaque on base of work: WHILE WE HAVE TIME / LET US DO GOOD / UNTO ALL MEN. At rear of base, incised in stone tablet: THIS OAK WAS PLANTED MARCH 10TH 1863 / THE MARRIAGE OF DAY OF ALBERT EDWARD PRINCE [. . .] / [. . . ] AL.