The Black Prince

City square Leeds on a glorious sunny day, but still cold, so as you can see, the snow hasn't melted yet.
This is the bronze statue of The Black Prince,by Thomas Beck.( who then went on to sculpt the national memorial to Queen Victoria in The Mall, and became Sir Thomas.)
A gift from Colonel Thomas Walter Harding, Lord Mayor of Leeds (1898-9)
Chosen to symbolise chivalry,good government, patronage of the arts and education,encouragement of industry,and democratic values.
The grand bronze took 7 years to complete, and had to be cast in Belgium as it was too large for any British foundry.
It was brought to City Square in Venetian style by barge from Hull along the Aire and Calder Navigation and unveiled on 16 September 1903.

In the background you can see part of the former Majestic cinema. A grade two listed building. Opened in 1922.
(I remember going to see the Sound of Music here in 1965!)
After becoming a Bingo Hall, and Night Club it closed, but has now been refurbished, and hopefully will reopen, with shops, cafes, restaurants and much more. They have certainly made a good job of the outside.

Had a couple of calls to make in Leeds, and then a visit to Waterstones book shop,
for a coffee and a look round.
Couldn't resist a cookery book (yes I know, another one!)
French Bistro Seasonal Recipes.
Some wonderful pictures of Paris, and the bistros, and food! I will enjoy looking at those, and the recipes are a bonus!
(It is making me want to visit there again!)

It has been a lovely sunny day, but the snow isn't melting very fast. I think it will be here for a few more days yet!