Palladio catalogue v6

Robert Nicholson (1920- 2004)
Sicilian Lion
1956
PO2.18
This bold design features a repeat lion motif that is
nearly three feet high. It was available in a variety
of striking colourways including gold and black.
The lion, a symbol of British national identity,
strength and authority made it a fitting choice
for public buildings. It provided a civic welcome
in the entrance spaces of the Miners’ Welfare
Centre, Nottinghamshire and the Engineering
and Allied Employers’ Federation offices,
Birmingham. It was also used as a backdrop
at the Colony Restaurant in Zimbabwe, before
independence in 1980.
Robert Nicholson studied at the Medway College of
Art in Kent. Teaming up with his brother and fellow
designer Roger Nicholson, the pair established
Nicholson Brothers in 1945, specialising in graphic
and industrial design. Together they worked on
room sets for the Festival of Britain and exhibition
and interior design for the Design Centre in
London, the national showroom for good design.
Left: Sicilian Lion installed in the Miner’s
Welfare Centre, Nottinghamshire. (Courtesy of
Architectural Press Archive / RIBA Collections).
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