The Black Prince

Although he has no connection with the city, Edward, The Black Prince sits in the city center of Leeds. A large bronze statue captures the war hero and eldest son of Edward III. Sculpted by artist Thomas Brook, Edward of Woodstock was named the Black Prince after his death, due to the color of much of his armor.

The statue took seven years to complete and was forged in Belgium as there was no forge in Britain large enough to aid in its completion. On its return, the statue was towed into Leeds aboard a barge on the canal. It was unveiled on September 16, 1903, and has been located in City Square ever since. On horseback, Edward is portrayed in a heroic battle pose and sits on a plinth adorned with lion heads. 

He’s flanked in the square by eight lamp bearers, who represent different times of the day. Designed by Sir Alfred Drury, they were created to mark Leeds’ new city status. They caused a bit of controversy when first created due to how the women were portrayed.