The effigies of two sixteenth century giants, Gog and Magog, in the likeness of ancient guardians of the City of London, which for centuries have stood guard in Guildhall and whose inflatable figures have featured in the annual Lord Mayor's Show, have been recreated in their original form of construction, using basketmaking techniques.

This was the brainchild of our current Prime Warden Mrs. Olivia Elton Barratt. What better way to promote the craft of basketmaking and the Basketmakers' Association than to have these giants on show with the Lord Mayor.

This amazing 'Giant' of a project to recreate the effigies of Gog and Magog in willow received an enthusiastic welcome from the Lord Mayor's Show Pageant Master, Dominic Reid, and the Society of Young Freemen, who provided the manpower to transport the Giants through the City streets.

Construction commenced in the Spring of 2006 with the team comprising members of the Basketmakers' Association, Yeomen and Livery Members of the Basketmakers Company. This presented a wonderful opportunity for all to contribute to a memorable project to publicise our ancient and very much alive craft. Apart from designing and building the willow frames the appropriate clothing and weapons carried by these giants has to be provided.

Thanks to the talents of Past Prime Warden Richard Bundock, suitable trolleys to support the structure were constructed. The figures stand some fifteen feet high, so a very sturdy and stable construction is essential.

John Stuttard, the Lord Mayor Elect visited the project to inspect progress during the second July session.

The Giants had a very successful debut at the Lord Mayor's Parade on Saturday 11th November. See the pictures of the event below.

Big Lorry, Bigger Giant.

Will he fit?

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