Lumley Castle Engraving by R.W. Billings

Name: Lumley Castle Engraving by R.W. Billings
Brand: susannew
Availability: LimitedAvailability

Two framed, hand-colored engravings by R.W. Billings showing Lumley Castle. One is a wide view, the other a close-up. - view 1

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QUICK FACTS

DESCRIPTION

Two framed engravings depicting Lumley Castle in Durham, England. The first image shows a distant view of the castle's exterior, while the second provides a closer perspective, possibly of a courtyard or main entrance, featuring a figure on horseback and architectural details. The engravings appear to be hand-colored or tinted, a common practice for architectural prints of the period.

CULTURAL ECHOES

Where This Object Echoes

British Topographical Art18th-19th Century

Architectural and landscape engravings were a popular form of art and documentation, often sold in sets or bound volumes. Artists like Billings contributed significantly to this genre, capturing the beauty and historical significance of Britain's heritage.

Ritual & Ceremonial Use

•Display in private homes or studies as decorative art or a sign of cultural knowledge.
•Collecting as part of wider 'grand tour' souvenirs or national heritage collections.

Meaning Through Time

19th Century

These prints served as important visual records of significant buildings, often before photography became widespread, allowing a broader public to 'visit' these sites.

20th-21st Century

Primarily valued as historical artifacts, decorative antiques, and examples of fine printmaking, appreciated for their aesthetic and historical context rather than their documentary function.

HISTORICAL STORY

Lumley Castle is a 14th-century quadrangular castle in County Durham, England. Built by Sir Ralph Lumley, it was converted into a stately home in the 16th century and has served various purposes, including a residence and currently a hotel. Architectural engravings like these were popular in the ...

DID YOU KNOW?

Lumley Castle is said to be one of the most haunted castles in England, with Lady Lumley, who was murdered in the castle, being the most prominent ghost.

R.W. Billings (Robert William Billings, 1812–1874) was a notable English architect, architectural draftsman, and author, famous for his detailed illustrations of cathedrals and castles.

MATERIAL & CONDITION

Surface

The engravings are on paper, likely medium-weight 'plate paper', with clear line work. They appear to have subtle hand-coloring, adding detail to the architecture and landscape elements. The surface is smooth under glass, with slight toning of the paper visible due to age.

Weight & Feel

The items are lightweight, typical for framed paper prints. The frames appear to be made of thin wood or metal, contributing little to the overall weight.

Condition

The prints exhibit age-appropriate toning and possibly some minor foxing (small brown spots common on old paper). They are well-preserved under glass, likely having been protected from significant damage. The framing seems intact, though some dust or slight discoloration might be present on the matting.