What are the historical uses of cast iron in monumental animal sculptures during the Industrial Revolution?

During the Industrial Revolution, cast iron became a transformative material for creating monumental animal sculptures, blending artistic expression with industrial innovation. The 19th century saw foundries mass-producing intricate statues of lions, eagles, and mythical beasts, which adorned public squares, bridges, and government buildings across Europe and America. Cast iron's affordability and durability made it ideal for large-scale outdoor installations, replacing traditional bronze in many civic projects. Notable examples include the iconic cast iron lions at Trafalgar Square and the elaborate animal reliefs on Victorian-era railway stations. These sculptures symbolized both technological progress and national pride, while demonstrating how industrialization democratized art by making monumental works accessible to growing urban populations. The material's versatility allowed detailed textures mimicking fur and feathers, achieving lifelike grandeur at lower costs than hand-carved stone. Today, these cast iron animal sculptures remain enduring landmarks of an era when art and industry forged a powerful creative alliance.