XXXVII. Observations on the preceding Paper respecting the remains of Gothic Architecture in Italy, &c. By Sir H.C. Englefield, Bart. F.R.S. and V.P.A.S.

Abstract

The beautiful drawings by Mr. Smirke, junior, of different fragments of ancient ecclesiastical architecture in the south of Europe, are extremely interesting to every one who has studied that subject; and it is most earnestly to be wished, that such of our artists as travel into Germany and Italy, would give some portion of their time to the collection of specimens similar to those exhibited by Mr. Smirke; the accuracy of which is not less to be admired than the elegance of their execution. In reasoning, however, from such specimens, as to the style of architecture in use at different periods, much caution is requisite, lest repairs and additions of a later date should be confounded with the original structure. Of such additions and mixture of style our own cathedrals afford so many instances that it is needless to particularize any.