Artwork

Crystal Palace: a general view of the palace, cascades and lower fountains

Crystal Palace: a general view of the palace, cascades and lower fountains is a photographic photography by the Impressionist artist William England. It dates from 1862 and is held in the collection of the Victoria and Albert Museum.

About this work

The photo was taken in 1862, showing a famous structure called the Crystal Palace.

This photo shows a grand building with glass roofs and tall domes. In front of it, there’s a wide, shallow pool with fountains shooting water. A long bridge with arches crosses the pool, and people walk along it. The background has rows of columns and trees lining a path.

The photo was taken in 1862, showing a famous structure called the Crystal Palace. The artist, William England, captured its size and details clearly.

Look up the Victoria and Albert Museum to see more works like this.

Overview

Crystal Palace: a general view of the palace, cascades and lower fountains is a 1862 stereograph photograph by William England, capturing a panoramic view of the Crystal Palace, its surroundings, and architectural details.

Subject & Meaning

The photograph depicts the Crystal Palace at the International Exhibition, highlighting its grandeur with glass roofs, tall domes, cascades, lower fountains, and a bridge with arches, conveying the structure's significance as a hub of international showcase.

Technique & Style

As a stereograph, the photograph utilizes a 19th-century technique designed to create a three-dimensional effect when viewed with a stereoscope, showcasing England's use of contemporary photographic innovation to document architecture.

History & Provenance

The reverse of the photograph includes identifying information: the group name, title, number 45, and notably, the date of the Crystal Palace's destruction by fire, contextualizing the image within the structure's lifespan.

Context

Taken in 1862 during the International Exhibition, the photograph situates the Crystal Palace as a central element of the event, reflecting its role in showcasing global achievements in a celebrated Victorian-era setting.