Images(6)

Hygeia

Artist John Cassidy (Slane, Co. Meath, Ireland, 1860 - 1939)

Object NameSculpture

ClassificationsSculptures

Object numberABDCC001077

About MeSited in Duthie Park this monument epitomises the ethos of the park which was funded by a member of the Duthie family as a place for the working people of Aberdeen to follow healthy persuits and forsake 'the demon drink' - a Blue Band march through the park was one of the first events to take place when it opened.

The monument comprises a standing figure of the Greek Goddess Hygeia [Health] in classical dress, carved in pale granite. She stands on a decorative corinthian column. Four recumbant lions in pink granite lie at the base. She represents a virgin holding a cup from which the symbol of health, a snake, drinks.

Designed by John Cassidy of Manchester and carved by Arthur Taylor in 1883it has a chamfered panelled plinth with the inscription "This park was presented by Elizabeth Crombie Duthie to the City of Aberdeen, and was opened by H.R.H. Princess Beatrice on 27th September 1883".

When this sculpture was being planned and its location and setting was being discussed the eminent artist and sculptor James Pittendrigh Macgillivray recommended that it have a semi circular bank of silver-leafed trees planted behind it. This was carried out but the trees were regretably removed when flats were built behind them in the 2000s.