Collections

Burns’ Monument, Alloway

Artist: Hill, David Octavius, RSA · 1802-1870

Burns’ Monument, Alloway

The view is of particular interest as it shows the carved stone statues of Tam O’Shanter and Soutar Johnnie located en plein air and thus prior to…

The view is of particular interest as it shows the carved stone statues of Tam O’Shanter and Soutar Johnnie located en plein air and thus prior to their removal to the building which currently houses them. Professor Wilson, writing in The Land of Burns (volume 1 page 44) which was published in 1840 states; “In a grotto hard by, are shown the matchless statues of Tam O’Shanter and Soutar Johnnie by Mr James Thom of Ayr.” Hill’s drawing appears to show at least 3 statues. Vide Joe Rock’s Research Pages on the internet for background to the design and erection of the Monument with passing reference to Thom and his statues.The page has been taken from a sketchbook