Royal Bank Of Scotland

Category: Historic Building/Architectural Interest

Gordon Street

This historic bank was designed by David Rhind (1801-1883) and completed in 1857.
Its finest feature is the quality of the stone-carving, by Alexander Handyside Ritchie (1804-1870). This square panel (around three feet across) shows small children using printing presses to print money. The keystone heads above the windows are of powerful men with stern expressions, as though they were guarding the building. These carvings are almost untouched by erosion or damage - they almost look brand new.

Ritchie also made the statue of Scott, and the sculptures on Procurator's House.