Home / Arts and Entertainment / Muses Descend: Historic Statues Up Close
Muses Descend: Historic Statues Up Close
5 Jul
Summary
- Nine muses from Clarendon Building removed for conservation.
- Three original and one new statue viewable in Weston Library.
- Statues guarded the building for over three centuries.
Stone muses that have adorned the roof of the historic Clarendon Building in Oxford for more than 300 years were removed in 2023 for essential conservation work. These statues, integral to the Grade-I listed structure, are now accessible for the public to view up close.
Currently, three of the nine muses are on display in Blackwell Hall at the Weston Library, offering a unique, eye-level perspective. Among these are Clio, representing History, and Polyhymnia, representing Rhetoric, both original lead statues. A newly cast lead reproduction of Calliope, symbolizing Epic Poetry, is also featured. These pieces will be returned to their positions atop the building following the conservation efforts.
While Clio, Calliope, and Polyhymnia are available for viewing, three other muses—Euterpe (Music), Erato (Love and Poetry), and Melpomeni (Tragedy)—are in storage awaiting reinstallation. The remaining three, Thalia (Comedy), Ourania (Astronomy), and Terpsichore (Dance), continue to watch over the building from their original high vantage points.
