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Old St Pauls Cathedral before the destruction of the steeple, 1657 (1904). Artist: Wenceslaus Hollar
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Old St Pauls Cathedral before the destruction of the steeple, 1657 (1904). Artist: Wenceslaus Hollar
Old St Pauls Cathedral before the destruction of the steeple, 1657 (1904). Old St Pauls Cathedral was the medieval cathedral of the City of London that, until 1666, stood on the site of the present St Pauls Cathedral. Built from 1087 to 1314, the cathedral was the fourth church on the site. On 4th June 1561 the spire caught fire and fell through the nave roof. According to a newspaper published days after the fire, the cause was a lightning strike, which generated enough heat to melt the cathedrals bells and the lead covering the wooden spire. From London in the Time of Tudors, by Sir Walter Besant. [Adam & Charles Black, London, 1904]
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Media ID 14971150
© The Print Collector
Aged Besant Hollar Sir Walter Sir Walter Besant Spire St Pauls Cathedral Steeple Tudor Vaclav Hollar Walter Walter Besant Wenceslas Hollar Wenceslaus Wenceslaus Hollar Wenzel Hollar Winceslaus Hollar
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print by Wenceslaus Hollar takes us back in time to the grandeur of Old St Paul's Cathedral before its tragic destruction. The medieval cathedral, which stood on the site of the present St Paul's Cathedral in London, was a magnificent architectural marvel that had been built over centuries. The focal point of this image is undoubtedly the steeple, which tragically met its demise in 1561 when it caught fire and crashed through the nave roof. According to historical accounts, a lightning strike caused this catastrophic event, resulting in not only the loss of the spire but also melting the cathedral's bells and lead covering. Hollar's meticulous engraving skillfully captures every intricate detail of this iconic structure. The monochrome palette adds an air of nostalgia and emphasizes the timeless beauty that once graced London's skyline during Tudor times. As we gaze upon this print, we are transported back to a bygone era—a testament to both human craftsmanship and nature's unpredictable forces. It serves as a poignant reminder of our history and heritage, showcasing how even great structures can be vulnerable to unforeseen events. Through Hollar's artistry, we are given a glimpse into what was lost but never forgotten—the majesty and significance that Old St Paul’s Cathedral held for generations past.
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