Artwork

Untitled

Untitled, by William Burges, 1878
Untitled, by William Burges, 1878

Untitled is a drawing by the Impressionist artist William Burges. It dates from 1878 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

In 1878, William Burges made architectural drawings for a cathedral. His work shows a church with two towers, three doors, and a tall spire. The design mixes old styles with lots of detailed carvings.

Burges never finished these plans. The cathedral was never built from his drawings. Still, his ideas show how he mixed past and present in one vision.

Look up architect Burges, William (A.R.A.).

Overview

This untitled drawing from 1878 represents William Burges' architectural design for Truro Cathedral, showcasing a composition inspired by 13th-century orthodox styles.

Subject & Meaning

The design features two west end towers, three portals, and a central crossing spire, with an emphasis on liberal sculptural ornamentation, reflecting Burges' approach to blending historical and contemporary elements.

Technique & Style

While specific drawing techniques are not detailed, the incorporation of detailed carvings alongside traditional architectural forms suggests Burges' characteristic eclectic and ornate style.

History & Provenance

Although Burges was among eight architects invited to submit designs, his preliminary drawings for Truro Cathedral remained unfinished and unsubmitted, thus not influencing the cathedral's eventual construction.

Context

Created in response to a specific architectural competition, the drawing exemplifies the Victorian era's interest in reviving medieval styles in new building projects.

Artist & collection

Artist

William Burges

William Burges slept in a tower at Cardiff Castle with his sketchbooks—ink-stained pages piled under his bed like secret sandwiches.