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John Nash on the spire of All Souls Church, Langham Place, Westminster, London, 1824
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John Nash on the spire of All Souls Church, Langham Place, Westminster, London, 1824
Nashional taste!!!; 1824; showing the architect John Nash spiked by the seat of his trousers on the spire of All Souls Church, Langham Place, St Marylebone, Westminster, London. while a flock of birds circles overhead. The church was designed by Nash as part of his development of Regent Street, and was the target of a number of caricaturists of the time
Heritage Images features heritage image collections
Media ID 15173012
© London Metropolitan Archives (City of London) / Heritage-Images
Architect Aspiring Balancing Balancing Act Cruikshank George Cruikshank John Nash Nash Play On Words Precarious Regent Street Spiked Spire Taste All Souls High Point Langham Place Metaphor
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John Nash - The Architect's Perilous Perch
EDITORS COMMENTS
. In this 19th-century photo print, we witness a daring spectacle that perfectly encapsulates the audacious spirit of architect John Nash. Captured on the spire of All Souls Church in Langham Place, Westminster, London in 1824, Nash finds himself in an extraordinary predicament. With his trousers unexpectedly spiked by the sharp pinnacle, he teeters precariously above the bustling streets below. As a flock of birds gracefully circles overhead, one cannot help but marvel at the juxtaposition between man and nature. This image serves as a testament to Nash's unwavering dedication to his craft and his unyielding ambition to leave an indelible mark on London's architectural landscape. Designed by Nash himself as part of his visionary Regent Street development project, All Souls Church became a target for caricaturists seeking to satirize both its grandeur and its creator. Yet amidst their jests lies an undeniable admiration for Nash's talent and influence within British architecture. This etching by George Cruikshank captures not only the physical danger faced by architects like Nash but also serves as a metaphorical play on words – "getting the point". It humorously alludes to both his high-standing profession and perhaps even hints at society's perception of architects aspiring towards greatness. Preserved within Guildhall Library and Art Gallery today, this remarkable snapshot offers us a glimpse into an era where artistry met satire with delightful results. Let it serve as a reminder that even in our most precarious moments, there is beauty to be found – whether soaring above London or grounded firmly in history.
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