Crystal Palace Iguanodon condition survey

The Crystal Palace Dinosaurs are a collection of thirty-two concrete sculptures, depicting extinct and prehistoric creatures, including the world's first full scale, three dimensional constructions of dinosaurs. Built between 1850-1854, the dinosaurs were commissioned to accompany the Crystal Palace after its move to South east London in the 1850's. This report focuses on recording the structural condition, specifically the development of cracks in the Standing Iguanodon, arguably the most iconic of the Crystal Palace Dinosaurs. Over the past 163 years it has been subject to numerous restorations, however deterioration specifically relating to structural issues persists. By mapping and monitoring the cracks formed since 2015 over a period of three months, this report identifies the patterns and comparative rates of cracking in the Standing Iguanodon. The monitoring programme revealed damage caused by ground subsidence. The measurements revealed an increase in dimensions, at points, to 41% of the cracks over a 3-month monitoring period. Measures to stabilise the ground beneath the sculpture are recommended.