B.
Castles in the Sand
Behind the scenes
The 4th Annual New Zealand Sandcastle Competition took place last weekend at New Brighton Beach, and a couple of the creations made me take a quick peek through the Gallery's collection for some equally fine examples.
![Image](/media/cache/9f/53/9f53714a3e355b87ac4cf6a4b50f8b49.jpg)
![Image](/media/cache/d1/ea/d1eafdbc71bbdc5a212add140c13c9c2.jpg)
There are a surprising number, both grandiose and ruined, so here's just a small selection.
Particularly interesting is William and Sparrow J. Byrne's seventeenth-century engraving which depicts Castle-Rising Castle, which today is one of 'the largest, best preserved and most lavishly decorated keeps in England'. It was built in 1138 and in the fourteenth century became a luxurious getaway (ie. hideout) for Queen Isabella, who was the widow - and alleged murderess - of Edward II. It's the bottom image.
friedrich Reiner, Vetzberg Castle
Clarkson Stanfield, Castle In Spain
Paul Sandby, Windsor Castle, South Terrace
William and Sparrow J. Byrne, Castle-Rising Castle
As for the freaky sand-octopus, check out Max Gimblett's equally terrifying Death By Octopus. that's gotta hurt....
![Image](/media/cache/09/6f/096f81c6fe6f5d5ba0a5aea427025b90.jpg)
Max Gimblett, Death By Octopus