10 feet to approx. ^13/₂₀ in (see also [9/2])

In graphite by Hawksmoor, with dimensions for width of basement arch (16 - 0), the central intercolumniation at raised ground level above the arch (9 . 9 - 0), and the width of the recess left of the basement arch (5); and in brown ink by C19 hand at top left and right, 66

• Undated, but datable 1711.

Graphite, with a small area of grey wash; on laid paper, with central fold on central axis of design; attached in C19 to 109/65, [8/2], at top edge of sheet, and attached to book guard on left; 371 x 478.

Hawksmoor

CDG; small fleur-de-lis

This elevation post-dates the initial scheme at [9/1], where the drum of the dome has not yet been drawn in, and the columns of the square peristyle are all evenly spaced, 10 feet wide, without a larger intercolumniation of 18 feet on the cardinal axes. It corresponds to the half-plan at [9/2] and is preparatory for the finished grey-wash elevation at Worcester College, which Hawksmoor inscribed as being for the 'West Front' of the chapel (Colvin 1964, cat. no. 61; Wren Society, VI, pl. 41; duplicate at Courtauld Institute of Art, inv. D.1961.XX.2.6). It is also preparatory for Hawksmoor's final plan of the chapel at Worcester College, dated 9 August 1711 (Colvin 1964, cat. no. 60; Wren Society, VI, pl. 40, top left). The date is probably when the design was finalised and the plan shows the chapel at three levels.

The elevation presents alternatives for the disposition of columns around the peristyle, as on the plan, [9/2]. On the left side, drawn in ink, is an initial scheme for a peristyle of 40 columns (10 in each quarter). The drum of the peristyle is slightly wider in this scheme and the columns are backed by pilasters on the wall of the drum. The version of the peristyle in the right half of the design, in pencil outlines, was the one adopted for the final plan and elevation at Worcester College (Colvin 1964, cat. nos 60 & 61). In other respects, however, the left side of the elevation closely follows the Worcester College elevation, e.g. in the stepped base of the cupola, and in the projections and recessions of wall masses around the basement. The chief differences are in the ornamental detail added on this elevation to the curved bastions beneath the drum.

Downes 1979, cat. no. 355 (as 'study for E elevation') Wren Society, VI, pl. 41, bottom

Drawing

Digitisation of the Drawings Collection has been made possible through the generosity of the Leon Levy Foundation

If you have any further information about this object, please contact us: drawings@soane.org.uk