Artwork
Measured elevation of the west side of Grosvenor House
Measured elevation of the west side of Grosvenor House is a drawing by the Impressionist artist Samuel Carrodus. It dates from 1884 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.
About this work
Overview
This 1884 drawing by Samuel Carrodus presents a meticulous architectural elevation of the west façade of Grosvenor House. Intended as a precise record, it captures structural and decorative elements in fine detail, serving both documentary and practical purposes for architectural study or restoration.
Subject & Meaning
The work documents the western exterior of Grosvenor House, emphasizing its architectural features—columns, railings, brickwork, and ornamental details. As a measured elevation, it functions as an exact representation, preserving the building’s design for historical reference or future replication.
Technique & Style
Executed in black and white, the drawing employs precise linework and shading to convey depth and texture. The style is technical rather than expressive, prioritizing accuracy over artistic interpretation. Such elevations were typically produced using drafting tools to ensure proportional correctness.
History & Provenance
Created in 1884, the drawing originates from a period when architectural documentation relied on manual drafting. Its inscription suggests it was part of a professional or institutional record, though its subsequent ownership history remains unspecified. It reflects the practices of 19th-century architectural surveying.
Context
Measured elevations like this were essential for architects, builders, and historians, providing reliable visual data for analysis or preservation. Such drawings often accompanied restoration projects or served as references for similar constructions. The focus on Grosvenor House indicates its significance within its architectural or social milieu.
Artist & collection
Artist
Samuel Carrodus drew careful building plans in the late 1800s. His ink-on-paper sheet shows the west side of Grosvenor House as it would have looked around 1884–85—windows, columns, and roof lines all measured and…
