Wonder of Architecture
Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
By Library of Virginia
Library of Virginia
Architecture and Astronomy (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
This volume from the Rare Book Collection at Library of Virginia is part of the Encyclopaedia Londinensis. The twenty-four volume set covers diverse subjects and is laid out with definitions for technical terms and richly illustrated hand colored plates.
The volume opens with this engraving by Richard Corbould. A noted illustrator, Corbould was also a painter of portraits, landscape, and history, and studied at the Royal Academy Schools from 1774.
Encyclopaedia Londinensis, Vol. II
‘-ensis is a Latin adjectival suffix meaning “pertaining to,” “originating in,” used in modern Latin scientific coinages, esp. derivatives of place names, like London used here. John Wilkes of Milland House compiled information along with engravings to cover a wide variety of topics. Before embarking on this collection, he had collaborated with Peter Barfoot on The Universal British Directory of Trade, Commerce, and Manufacture. The Encyclopedia, which dates from 1810-1829, was printed in London, and sold at the Encyclopedia Office at St. Paul's near Fleet Street and Aldgate.
Components of Architecture
In additional to being a showcase of beautiful architecture engravings, this volume by Wilkes also serves as a specialized text on the mathematics and mechanics of the smaller components and elements, which combine to create wondrous structures.
Tuscan and Doric Columns (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
With measurements included, this plate goes beyond a mere visual comparison of the similarities and differences between Tuscan and Doric, and offers a mathematical breakdown of their proportions.
The Ionic order originated in eastern Greece. Its distinguishing features include slender, fluted pillars as well as volutes, or scrolls.
Classical orders have distinctive mouldings, pedestals and bases which separate them stylistically from each other, and result in varying measurements of each section.
Corinthian and Composite Columns (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Notably, Corinthian columns include rows of acanthus leaves and four scrolls, along with 24 flutes. This is just one defining characteristic separating the Classical orders.
Doric columns traditionally have 20 flutes, while Ionic and Corinthian have 24 each.
Cross-sections of columns in this plate by T. Sheraton and J. Pass reveal the intricate layers that compose the lower, often over-looked structure of the classical column.
Modern Profiles of the Doric, Ionic & Corinthian Orders (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Beyond the defining differences of the columns of the Classical orders, Wilkes' collection of engravings also shows styles and details of these required elements within world examples.
Method of setting off the Tuscan Order (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
The math shown in this engraved plate is further explained in this video.
A Comparative View of the Five Orders of Architecture (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
In this plate, T. Sheraton and J. Pass contrast the five Classical orders. From left to right, the simplicity of Doric and Tuscan shift to the slightly embellished Ionic capital and end with ornate Corinthian and Composite columns.
Method of describing the Ionic Volutes, common, angular & elliptical (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
A volute is a spiral, scroll-like ornament that forms the basis of the Ionic order, found in the capital of the Ionic column. It was later incorporated into Corinthian order and Composite column capitals. Four are normally to be found on an Ionic capital, eight on Composite capitals and smaller versions (sometimes called helix) on the Corinthian capital.
What else defines the Ionic order? Check out the rest of the gallery for more information.
Design for a Norman Gothic Column and Entablature enriched (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
As the engraved plates move further through the years of architectural design, once-simple components, such as entablatures, become more and more ornate, as in this Norman Gothic example.
Design for a Norman Gothic Column and Entablature (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Salisbury Cathedral, which can also be seen in this collection, is an example of a completed building in this style.
Design for a Norman Gothic Column and Entablature enriched (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Building the Great Cathedrals Preview (from PBS)
A View of the square sculptured Columns of a Pagoda or Temple in Hindostan (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Non-European architecture is also included, such as this detailed view of a sculpted square pagoda column from what is now Northern India.
A View of the Corner Pillars of a Temple or Choultry in Hindostan (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Learn more about temple architecture from the Asian Art Museum.
Plans and Contemporary Components
Along with the large collection of Classical architecture pieces, Wilkes also includes plans and components of designs that move from the ancient world through the Middle Ages in Europe.
Plans of the different Arches (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Can you match up the styles of arches to other images in this Encyclopaedia Londinensis Gallery?
Plans for Soffits and Niches (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
In many of the engraved plates in this section of the volume, components are sketched without intricate measurements, but rather with variations or with buildings in which they would be used.
Plan and Elevation of a Roman Villa (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
This section of the Encyclopaedia Londinensis shifts focus from elemental pieces to full-fledged buildings, beginning with this plan and elevation of a Roman Villa.
View of a Modern Staircase with Elliptical Well (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
The volume also contains interior architecture examples, such as this sweeping staircase.
Design for an Ornamental Ceiling (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
This design for an ornamental ceiling seems as if it could just as easily be wall art, or perhaps even created as a floor mosaic.
Elevation and Section of the Design for a Mansion House (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
This design for a mansion house combines elements of Greek and Roman architecture into a multi-tiered building with the effect of drawing the eye upwards to the ornate domes.
Full Architectural Masterpieces
The volume includes several UNESCO World Heritage sites and other iconic locations in engraved glory. Students of architecture can work to identify the components from earlier in the volume as they combine to create these ornate structures. Students of history can also see many of the structures that feature prominently in cultural studies.
Portico of the Parthenon
This engraving by J. Chapman brings to life the iconic image of the Parthenon as it would have existed before the effects of weather and time. There is now substantial evidence that the statues on the Parthenon were painted in vivid color, so its "perfect state" would be much brighter.
An East View of the Ruin of the Parthenon, or Temple of Minerva, with the interior Part converted into a Mosque by the Turks (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
This engraving differs from other representations of the Parthenon, since it depicts the early 1700's conversion into a mosque while under Ottoman rule, rather than remaining an unchanging monument to Ancient Greece.
London, Blackfriars, Westminster and Kew Bridges (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Video of Blackfriars Bridge (1896) - R.W. Paul | BFI
In this plate, T. Sheraton and J. Pass depict four of the bridges in London that cross the River Thames near the Monument to the Great Fire of London, Shakespeare's Globe, Parliament, and Kew Gardens, respectively.
A View of the Castle of Old Sarum (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
Old Sarum
This image by T. Sheraton and J. Pass depicts Old Sarum. The earliest hillfort on the site may date back to about 400 B.C. and it became known as Sorviodunum under Roman rule. The castle came to prominence during the Norman Conquest due to its position on the Roman road network. (via http://bit.ly/1qnxmIo)
Video: Old Sarum archaeologists reveal plan of medieval city.
Salisbury Cathedral
The Cathedral is home to Britain's tallest spire and best preserved Magna Carta. The majority of the cathedral was built from 1220-1258 in the Early English Gothic style. The chapter house, tower, and spire were completed by 1320. Additional buttressing and structural work has been done since to support the spire. Salisbury Cathedral is one of the inspirations for Ken Follett's "Pillars of the Earth."
A Geometrical Elevation of the West end of St. Paul's Cathedral (1810/1829) by John Wilkes, of Milland HouseOriginal Source: Encyclopaedia Londinensis, or, Universal dictionary of Arts, Sciences, and Literature, Vol. II
St. Paul's Cathedral
St. Paul's Cathedral, depicted in this engraved plate by J. Pass, is an iconic landmark of London and the masterpiece of Britain's most renowned architect, Sir Christopher Wren. Virginia's famous Renaissance Man Thomas Jefferson is connected to Christopher Wren through shared Classical influences, seen in both the architecture of Monticello and St. Paul's Cathedral. Jefferson lodged in the Sir Christopher Wren Building while attending The College of William & Mary and may have derived inspiration from its Classical balance and forms.
All Images from "Encyclopaedia Londinensis or,
Universal dictionary of arts, sciences, and literature, Volume 2, Architecture" by John Wilkes of Milland House, 1810-1829.
Text and arrangement by Mary Kate du Laney, Audrey McElhinney, and Sonya Coleman for the Library of Virginia.
Imaging by the LVA Photo & Digital Imaging Services Department
For the Library of Virginia
