Henry Moore sculpture returns to Greenwich Park for Olympics (From News Shopper)

Henry Moore sculpture returns to Greenwich Park for Olympics

5:08pm Wednesday 7th September 2011 in News By Mark Chandler

A MUCH-LOVED sculpture by Henry Moore has returned to Greenwich Park after a four year absence - just in time for the Olympics.

Large Standing Figure: Knife Edge, made in 1976, has been loaned to the park for two years by the Henry Moore Foundation.

It was originally sited there by the renowned sculptor in 1979. But in 2007 it was removed for conservation work before being exhibited at Kew Gardens and in Yorkshire.

Located between The Avenue and Croom’s Hill Gate, the 358cm bronze work will now be on show during the 2012 Olympics when the park is used for equestrian events.

It was unveiled on September 7 by British triple jump legend Jonathan Edwards, now a board member of Olympic organisers Locog.

A spokesman for Friends of Greenwich Park said: “The friends are delighted to see the Knife Edge sculpture back in its striking setting in Greenwich Park, regarded as its home for nearly 30 years.

“It has been sorely missed by many local people since it was removed in 2007.

“During its absence, we – together with other individuals and organisations – have taken an active interest in seeking its return.”

Deputy chief executive of Royal Parks Colin Buttery said: “The eyes of the world will be on the Royal Parks and on Greenwich Park during the summer of 2012 and we’re delighted that so many people will have the opportunity to see Knife Edge in this beautiful setting.”

The loan has been funded by the Friends group, Locog and the Royal Parks, which runs the site.

A version of the sculpture was once exhibited by Moore on a hillside overlooking the Acropolis in Athens.