Dome

Overall view in Princes Street Gardens; After the death of Sir Walter Scott in 1832, plans were made for a commemorative monument in Edinburgh and several architects were asked to submit designs. The self-taught Kemp submitted his design under the pseudonym of John Morow, the medieval master mason of Melrose Abbey, and was placed third but subsequently won the competition with a revised design (1838). His Gothic monument was built in 1840-1846. The principal details of the design derive directly from Melrose Abbey, with other components from French Gothic sources. The Gothic details are archaeologically correct and brilliantly put together, giving a visually satisfying experience in the romantic surroundings of central Edinburgh. The monument has spiral stairs and viewing platforms to view Edinburgh. John Steell remained in Scotland in order to promote a native school of sculpture. He was created Sculptor to the Queen in Scotland and won an international competition with the seated figure of Sir Walter Scott, placed in the monument (marble, 1838-1846). Source: Grove Art Online; http://www.oxfordartonline.com/ (accessed 6/18/2012)