Who Is My Fair Lady in London Bridge?

By Robert Palmer

If you’ve ever crossed the London Bridge, you may have noticed a stunning statue of a lady holding a bouquet of flowers. But who is she? Let’s dive into the history of “My Fair Lady” and discover the story behind this iconic landmark.

The Origin Story

The statue, officially known as “The Naiad,” was created by the French sculptor Jules Dalou in 1854. Originally, it was placed in the Crystal Palace exhibition hall in Sydenham. However, when the exhibition ended, the statue was moved to its current location on the pedestal of the southern end of London Bridge.

The Meaning Behind The Statue

The Naiad is a representation of a water nymph from Greek mythology. In Greek mythology, water nymphs were believed to be spirits that inhabited bodies of water such as fountains, rivers, and springs. They were often depicted as beautiful women with long hair and flowing dresses.

In this statue, The Naiad is shown holding a pitcher that pours water into the Thames River below her feet. This symbolizes one of London’s most famous landmarks – The River Thames.

Why Is It Called “My Fair Lady”?

One popular theory behind why The Naiad is referred to as “My Fair Lady” is that it was inspired by a character from George Bernard Shaw’s play Pygmalion. This play tells the story of Eliza Doolittle, a Cockney flower girl who takes speech lessons from Professor Henry Higgins to sound like an educated lady.

Another theory suggests that it may have been named after Liza Lehmann’s 1896 song “Oh My Fair Lord,” which was popular at the time.

Conclusion

In conclusion, The Naiad or “My Fair Lady” is an iconic statue located on London Bridge. It is a beautiful representation of a water nymph from Greek mythology and serves as a symbol of the famous River Thames. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, it’s hard not to appreciate the beauty and history behind this stunning landmark.