We have failed to garner any information on this statue and the relief panels. The nearest connection we can find with Nell is a tradition that she lived at Sandford Manor House, still marked on the (Google) map, just north of the Chelsea gas works near Chelsea Harbour; not exactly close. And yet the fountain in nearby Sloane Square also carries images of Nell and her King, so there is some connection to the locality - see her page for our current thinking on this.
We'd also like to know the sculptor.
Note the dog at Nell's feet. As Corgies were to Elizabeth II so these spaniels were to Charles II.
Site: Nell Gwynn statue (1 memorial)
SW3, Sloane Avenue, Nell Gwynn House
This 1937 art deco apartment block, by architect G. Kay Green, has a very distinctive frontage. The large canopy above the entrance is probably not part of the original design since it partly obscures the relief panel above. From further back one can see that this depicts a rural scene with, left to right: two cavaliers resting on their swords, two saddled horses, another cavalier with two ladies. Below the canopy, above the revolving door, a curved relief depicts: a rural scene with, left to right: a group of 4 cavaliers, one with his sword drawn, a castle, a pair of duelling cavaliers, a group consisting of a person in a long robe (a woman?), a cavalier, a less formally-dressed person (a squire?) and two greyhound-type dogs (a very 1930s motif). This must all reference some legend or historical event but it's beyond us. Anyone know?
Famous former residents include: Diana Dors and the Great Train Robber, Roy James.
The front entrance appears briefly in the 1954 film 'Delayed Action', as some characters exit a car and enter the building.
2024: We are grateful to SC who sent a copy of an advertisement in The Sphere, 6 November 1937. This has a photo of the front of the building (which confirms our theory about the lower canopy not being original) and this charming text:
THE DISTINCTION OF THE SMARTEST FLAT IN CHELSEA CAN BE YOURS FROM £90 TO £190 PER ANNUM
EVERY single-roomed and two-roomed flat has its own private bath- room, kitchenette, and up-to-date conveniences for luxurious comfort. If you wish to be gay, our Restaurant-Ballroom is one of the most charming in the west of the West End. Of course, the Cocktail Bar is unique. Whether you use your flat only as a pied-a-terre or as a permanent home, you are always treated en prince by our well-trained staff, who pay constant attention to your slightest wish. Even in this extremely practical day and age, the courtesy and genuine hospitality of olden days is truly appreciated. In a word, if you would give yourself the chance to be care-free and happy, it is here that you may find it.
