If you've ever walked the historic streets of London, particularly around Covent Garden and the City, you might have felt like you were being watched. Not by a person, but by a serene, stone-faced lady gazing down from a building facade. This is the Mercers' Maiden, one of the city's most enduring and enigmatic symbols.
But who is she, and why is she ubiquitous across some of London's most valuable real estate?
The Mercers' Company, a City Livery Company, has owned the land between Long Acre and Shelton Street since 1530. These Livery Companies grew out of the trades guilds, in the 12th century, when men and women working in the same crafts, or trades, joined together in formal associations.
