Bringing Classical architecture to Tudor England in the 1540s: William Sharington’s Lacock Abbey and the role of his master mason, John Chapman

Abstract

Summary Studies of the evolution of English architecture during the Tudor period rarely mention Lacock Abbey in Wiltshire. Even when noticed, the commentary tends to be brief and poorly informed. Much of this Tudor country house survives intact, albeit masked by later alterations making way for changing uses. This essay unravels the history and development of the Tudor house to reveal a surprisingly important structure that deserves a better understanding. Additionally, and for the first time, the career and work of John Chapman, a little-known master-mason, is explored through the buildings believed to have been created by him and his team.