Craigentinny Marbles

Incongruously sitting in Craigentinny Crescent (1930s housing, see extra) is the mausoleum of William Henry Miller, MP for Newcastle Under Lyme (originally from Edinburgh).

The mausoleum itself was designed by David Rhnd and completed in 1856, with two bas relief sculptures by Alfred Gatley depicting part of the biblical narrative of the Exodus added later. 

The relief on the north face, 'The Overthrow of Pharaoh in the Red Sea', shows the destruction of Rameses II’s army during the crossing of the Red Sea. 

The relief on the south face, 'The Song of Moses and Miriam', depicts the Israelites singing a song of celebration for their escape and for the destruction of the Egyptian army. 

The 'Pharaoh' bas-relief was finished in time to be displayed at the 1862 International exhibition in London, but the 'Song' bas-relief was completed just before Gatley's death from dysentery in 1863.

The panels were described as ‘the most remarkable pieces of sculpture executed during this century’ and ‘attracted artists from all parts to view them’.

Anyway, enough history … I hope you are having a good day.