The 3.56 metres (11.7 ft) bronze sculpture depicts George Canning (British Prime Minister during 1827) larger than life size, swathed in a long robe and a cloak, holding a scroll in his left hand, similar to a classical statue of an orator from Ancient Rome, although his legs are covered with modern trousers and he has laced shoes on his feet. The statue stands on a 4.4 metres (14 ft) granite plinth which bears the inscription "GEORGE CANNING".
The statue was first erected near St Margaret's, Westminster, overlooking Old Palace Yard. It was unveiled there on 2 May 1832, five years after Canning's death in office aged 57 in August 1827. The statue was said to be a good likeness, and was based on a bust made by Francis Chantrey for his memorial at Westminster Abbey.