Griffin Tazza (Lion Vase)

The Griffin Tazza, often called the Lion Vase, stands as a centerpiece within the Avenue Gardens of The Regent's Park. This grand, circular stone vessel is supported by four winged lions, or griffins, that give the structure its name. It was installed in eighteen sixty-three as part of a formal redesign of the gardens led by landscape architect William Andrews Nesfield. The vase is crafted from a unique artificial stone created by the firm of Austin and Seeley. This material was a specialized mixture of Portland cement, pounded marble, coarse sand, and broken stone, designed to mimic the appearance of natural carved stone while offering superior resistance to the harsh British winters. The manufacturers were so confident in their product that they marketed it as being completely impervious to wet weather and durable enough to serve as a reliable material for outdoor water features. Queen Victoria was a notable supporter of this company, helping to establish its reputation for creating garden ornaments that were both affordable and long-lasting.