What's the story with the Horse Friezes at Tattersalls Arcade

Ever wandered into the Heritage listed Tattersalls Arcade in Brisbane and wondered about the horse friezes that appear above the Dello Mano Store door?

Daphne Mayo Frieze over the Dello Mano door.

A little research into the matter and those friezes not only add to the beauty of the arcade but represent a significant piece of Brisbane and Australian Art history. The friezes are indeed  iconic works crafted by Daphne Mayo for the Tattersalls Club at the time of its opening in 1926.

Born in 1895 in Sydney, Daphne was educated in Brisbane and is considered to be a significant Australian Artist most notably for her work in sculpture. 

The opening in 1926 of the Tattersalls Arcade was covered by the Courier Mail.  The newspaper beaming with praise regarding the beautiful ornate plaster ceiling and particularly the Daphne Mayo friezes.

The original friezes by Mayo were displayed at the Queen St. opening of the Arcade. The friezes depict the history of the sport of the horse from B.C.E. 400 to 1925. The story told in the frieze culminates in showcasing the winner that year of the most prestigious thoroughbred horse race in the world, the Melbourne Cup  - a horse known as Windbag.

Today, the Tattersalls arcade remains a busy, premium shopping precinct. The Daphne Mayo friezes proudly remain above the shop doors. 

If you are planning a visit to Brisbane take some time to stop by the Tattersalls Arcade just off the Queen St Mall ( corner Edward St) and take in the majesty of the heritage listed Arcade as well as enjoy the delight of the work of Daphne Mayo. A must see when you visit Brisbane.

Tattersalls Arcade, Brisbane

Dello Mano is Australia's Brownie pioneers and is store is located in the Tattersalls Arcade, Brisbane. The store specialises in Belgian Chocolate Brownies, Cakes, Chocolates and other handmade delights. Light savoury is served as is a range of Tea and Coffee. 

Dello Mano - Tattersalls Arcade - Open 7 days

Mon - Thurs 7am - 5:30pm

Friday 7am - 9pm

Sat 9am - 5pm

Sun 10am - 5pm