This handsome gate is the only one which bounds the city liberties. It was built after the great fire, and has two posterns, for the advantage of foot passengers. It is composed entirely of Portland stone, of rustic work below, and of the Corinthian order. Over the gateway on the east side, in two niches, are stone statues of queen Elizabeth and king James I., with the royal arms over the key-stone; and on the west side are the statues of king Charles I. and king Charles II., in Roman habits.
This gate has been particularly distinguished by the exhibition of the heads of those who have been executed for treason since its erection.
Source: Leigh's New Picture of London. Printed for Samuel Leigh, 18, Strand;
by W. Clowes, Northumberland Court. 1819