Sarsfield Memorial Statue, Limerick

The Sarsfield Memorial Statue in Limerick serves as a significant historical and artistic landmark, commemorating General Patrick Sarsfield. This statue stands as a tribute to Sarsfield's valor during the sieges of Limerick in the late 1690s, specifically during the Williamite War in Ireland. The statue is located on the presbytery lawn of Saint John's Cathedral, strategically placed near the street to attract the attention of passersby.

Created by the Dublin sculptor John Lawlor in 1881, the statue was cast at Young's London Art Foundry, following a preliminary sketch by the local artist Henry O'Shea. Lawlor, who lived from 1820 to 1901, was known for his expressive and detailed bronze works. The statue of Sarsfield is no exception, showcasing the general in dynamic 17th-century military attire, complete with a sword, flamboyant knee-high boots, large cuffs, and a flowing coat adorned with elaborate fastenings. The hair styled in ringlets adds a dramatic touch, enhancing the baroque aesthetic typical of Victorian-era commemorations.

Mounted on a limestone pedestal, the statue is encircled by wrought-iron railings, emphasizing its importance and protecting it from the elements. The inscriptions on the pedestal are particularly poignant: the front inscription commemorates Sarsfield, Earl of Lucan, highlighting his role in defending Limerick during the sieges of 1690-1691 and noting his death in 1693 from battle wounds. A side inscription records the memorial's history, mentioning its initiation by the reformed corporation in 1841, its period of dormancy, and its eventual completion in 1875 under Mayor Ambrose Hall.

This bronze statue not only celebrates General Sarsfield's military achievements but also exemplifies Victorian trends in memorializing historic figures. Its artistic qualities—animated expression, the quality of the bronze, and the exaggerated historical costume—reflect the era's appreciation for dramatic, narrative art in public monuments.