Lloyd’s war memorial and arch

On 31 January 1922, the original Lloyd's War Memorial arch, designed by Sir Edwin Cooper, was unveiled by Field Marshal Earl Haig at the entrance to Lloyd's Rooms at the Royal Exchange. It was made of Portland stone and commemorated all those who had been lost in the Great War.

When Lloyd’s moved to Leadenhall Street, the arch was also moved and remained there until the site was demolished in 1979 to make way for the present Lime Street building. At this time, the arch was put into storage.

Today, the arch has been carefully restored and now houses the new Lloyd's War Memorials, which commemorate all those who lost their lives in both the First and Second World War. These memorials were unveiled and dedicated on 2 July 2008 by Lord Levene of Portsoken, HRH The Duke of Gloucester and the Bishop of London.

Design of the 1922 arch

Sir Edwin Cooper's original design represented Lloyd’s and its characteristics by using symbols sculpted in the centre of the pediment. These symbols still aptly represent Lloyd’s today.

The central motif of the sculptured group is a globe, which typifies the worldwide interests of Lloyd’s. This is supported on the right by a female figure, representing commerce. Around this are grouped a lion, suggesting courage and strength; and a hive, indicating the activities of the Industry. A supporting male figure, representing shipping, has at his feet an owl, which expresses the foresight and wisdom so necessary in the commerce of the sea.
The arch is 37 feet high and 19.5 feet wide.