Diana and the Hounds Fountain

Situated directly in front of the conservatory in the picturesque Fitzroy Gardens stands this fine piece of public art. The bronze sculpture depicts Diana, historically known as the Roman Goddess of the hunt, wild animals, fertility, and the Moon. Holding a bow, she is flanked by two hound dogs and the three characters sit mounted on a granite plinth forming the concrete base below.

It was designed by an English artist, William Leslie Bowles, who completed the mold in 1939. Made in England, the casting and transport to Australia were delayed due to the outbreak of the Second World War. (Interestingly, this statue was the last to be cast in London before the outbreak of the war.)

The fountain was officially unveiled to the public by Melbourne’s Lord Mayor, Councillor Coles, on September 4, 1940, and occupies the same location to impress both locals and tourists to this day. It sits in a specially made lily pond.