Secrets of the Sculptures

Walk preview

1. 

   Step 1: Enter Crystal Palace Park at Boundaries Gate, in the SW. Read the info board on the railings for a brief history of the Vicar’s Oak site.

2. Step 2: As you enter the park and reach the ornamental flowerbeds turn left along the gravel path. Notice the layout of the beds on the map, the design was inspired by the look of the Crystal Palace.

3. Step 3: Walking along this path it’s hard to imagine the 1,608 ft tall Crystal Palace that opened here in 1854. Originally in Hyde Park where it housed The Great Exhibition of 1851 it was dismantled and rebuilt here on a larger scale.

4. 

   Step 4: On your right you’ll find a statue. Take a look round the statue, what do you notice? How do you think the statue is feeling?

5. Step 5: This statue represents Psyche, Greek myth tells of her love for Cupid and the trials and tribulations of their relationship. The sculpture shows the moment Psyche loses Cupid which is why the statue is called Psyche Abandoned.

6. Step 6: Continue on the path you were on.