2-798-783 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Baily's statue of Dr. Watts, 1845. Sculpture of English hymn writer, author and theologian Isaac Watts in Abney Park Cemetery, Stoke Newington, London. It was designed by Edward Hodges Baily (who also sculpted the statue of Lord Nelson on top of Nelson's Column). 'The height of the Statue is 8 feet 3 inches; and that of the pedestal on which it stands, is 12 feet; the whole being executed in Portland stone. The commission has been executed by Mr. Baily, R.A., whose usual charge for such a Statue in Portland stone is £500; but, in consequence of his estimation of Dr. Watts's character and talents, he undertook to execute the work considerably under that sum...The Statue is simple, yet dignified; and embodies the spirit of Watts's character and writings, which beam with freedom, toleration, and piety'. From "Illustrated London News", 1845, Vol VII.