Winchester Cathedral has announced that a memorial statue of Jane Austen to mark her 250th anniversary can now go ahead.
Jane Austen Statue by Martin Jennings at Winchester Cathedral
Work will begin on the statue of Austen standing by her writing table by Martin Jennings, one of the country’s leading figurative sculptors.
It will be installed outside No 9 in the Inner Close, midway between the cathedral and the house in College Street where she died in September 2024 after Winchester City Council approved the plans.
Canon Roland Riem, Vice-Dean of Winchester Cathedral said:
“We would like to thank the many donors who have understood the vision for this memorial to Austen’s literary legacy, and who have contributed so generously.
“We thank those who have offered feedback, and, last by no means least, thank Martin for his perseverance and patience over the eight years since this project’s inception.”
Martin Jennings said:
“A sculpture of a great figure can be only one interpretation, but I hope mine will pay full tribute to the essential elements of her moral vision and her greatness as an author.
“I look forward to producing a memorial to Jane Austen which will draw people from far and wide to celebrate her legacy and that of the great city and cathedral in which she rests.”
Martin will now get to work on the full-scale clay model at his studio in Stroud.
Sarah Greer, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Winchester said:
“This beautiful statue is a fitting tribute to one of England’s finest writers and Hampshire’s most beloved residents.
“It is a welcome and long overdue celebration of Austen’s contribution to English literature, reminding us poignantly of her essential humanity as well as her unparalleled talent.
“Martin Jennings’ work reflects the humour, elegance and pathos of Austen’s own.”
Her sentiments were echoed by Elizabeth Stone, Headmaster of Winchester College:
“This is an opportunity to celebrate one of the giants of English literature, who gave us one of the earliest and fullest expressions of a woman’s observations of the world.
“Jane Austen had many connections with the College and Cathedral. Her recognition will bring the rich history of our city even more fully to life, to the benefit of residents and visitors alike.”
Photos by © Steve Russell Studios
