Getting ready for Aphra

Getting ready for Aphra

On the morning of Tuesday 25 February 2025, a dream will come true. After four years of hard work, the Society’s latest project – Christine Charlesworth’s magnificent lifesize-plus bronze statue of the 17-year-old Aphra Johnson (as she was then) leaving the city for London – will be unveiled by a VVIP. At this stage, for security reasons, the name of our most distinguished guest must remain a secret. But rest assured, you will not be disappointed!

Almost 50 designs for the statue were put forward and the winner was chosen by popular vote. It was funded by donors large and small from all over the world. Its position on the street, standing not on a plinth but among shoppers, tourists and revellers at the entrance to a house of learning, is surely what Aphra herself would have chosen.

Everyone is most welcome to witness the unveiling and marvel at the striking depiction of a self-made young woman from a very ordinary background who became the country’s first female professional author and remains a shining inspiration for all who look on her.

Aphra Behn Maquette

The maquette of Aphra Behn will be available to order in a total limited edition of 20. Choose from either Foundry Bronze or Bronze Resin.

  • Foundry Bronze takes 8+ weeks to produce, price £2,300 plus delivery cost (or collection from studio)

  • Bronze Resin takes approximately 2 weeks to produce, price £750 plus delivery cost (or collection from studio)

Contact Christine Charlesworth or telephone 01483 416362. Christine’s studio is located near Godalming in Surrey.