The Whittington Stone, interpreting migration to London.

An Introduction to Representation The concept of representation has become more relevant than ever (Hall, 1997). With the earth’s digital capabilities expanding as our attention spans are simultaneously contracting, symbols have come to occupy a vital space in society (McSpadden, 2015). Indeed, symbolic objects have become increasingly valuable in both the rapid dissemination of information

Trafalgar Square as imperial artefact

Trafalgar Square has been a site of national importance since the fourteenth century. Formerly a royal mews, it was not until 1843 with the erection of Nelson’s Column that it began to resemble the Square we know today. Trafalgar Square primarily serves as a commemorative space remembering various naval and military men who had roles

The statue of William Beckford, Guildhall.

The statue of William Beckford (1709-1770) stands in the Guildhall, London. Beckford is “flanked by the allegorical figures of Britannia and Commerce” (Dresser, 2007: 174), portrayed as an upholder of civil liberties. This representation, however, is filled with ironies. Despite Beckford’s depiction as libertarian whilst MP for London and Lord Mayor of London, the evidence

Narratives surrounding the Henry Havelock statue, Tower of London and Cabot-Place

Semiotics is defined as ‘the study of signs and symbols [regarding the] use and representations’ (Oxford Dictionary, 2017) of objects. The London skyline, has become the signifier representing London as a diverse metropolis, creating familiarity primarily aimed at tourists. Hence, London is portrayed as an ‘embodiment and symbol of urban organisations by existing and past