Kensal Green - Symbolism

Kensal Green has a wide variety of taste and styles of architecture and design, illustrating the complex symbolism that characteristed Victorian society. A good example of the use of symbolism is the Graeco-Egyptian mausoleum of the equestrian performer and circus owner Andrew Ducrow (1793-1842).

The Builder (1856) criticised the monument as an example of 'ponderous coxcombry.' That may be, yet it still tells us much about Ducrow and the times in which he lived. These are just a few of the the motifs which cover the memorial and its surroundings.

Pegasus - equestrian reference

Shrouded woman - symbol of mourning

Urn - receptacle of the remains of the dead

Masks - Classical symbols of comedy and tragedy

Upside down torch - a life extinguished (also seen on base of column and fence)

Ducrow's hat and gloves next to a broken column and laurel wreath, symbolic of the death of the head of the household.