Artwork

The New Church of St. Mary - Old Hagerston [sic], July 1827

The New Church of St. Mary - Old Hagerston [sic], July 1827, by T. H. Shepherd, 1827
The New Church of St. Mary - Old Hagerston [sic], July 1827, by T. H. Shepherd, 1827

The New Church of St. Mary - Old Hagerston [sic], July 1827 is a drawing by the Romanticist artist T. H. Shepherd. It dates from 1827 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum. This drawing, dated July 1827, presents a detailed depiction of the Church of St Mary in Haggerston, London.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, dated July 1827, presents a detailed depiction of the Church of St Mary in Haggerston, London. Created using pencil, it showcases the church's architectural features and surroundings.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing focuses on the church's west front and tower, capturing its intricate details such as pointed arches and stone carvings. Figures are shown standing outside, adding a sense of scale and context.

Technique & Style

The sketch is characterized by its use of numerous lines and shading, creating a realistic representation of the church. Its attention to detail and emphasis on architectural features are consistent with the Romanticism style, which often highlighted the beauty of individual buildings and landscapes.

History & Provenance

The Church of St Mary was designed by John Nash and built in 1827, but was later destroyed during World War II. The drawing was part of the John Edmund Gardner collection, later dispersed among various institutions and collectors. A portion of this collection was donated to the Bethnal Green Museum by the Hon. Arthur Villiers.

Artist & collection

Artist

T. H. Shepherd

London draftsman T. H. Shepherd turned city walls and church spires into paper keepsakes. In 1827 he drew the freshly built St. Mary’s in old Haggerston, its brickwork still wet with mortar; fourteen years later he…