A rare piece of architectural history on display in the Library at Pitzhanger Manor.
We are thrilled to welcome you to Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery as we celebrate the arrival of an exceptional piece of our history, a remarkable architectural model for a Villa at Acton, designed by Sir John Soane in 1800. Generously loaned by Sir John Soane’s Museum, the model offers us a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the mind of Soane and his contributions to the world of architecture.
Famous for his ingenious use of light and space, Soane initially intended to construct this villa for himself in nearby Acton. Eventually, however, he adapted his original plans to the distinctive features of the Pitzhanger Manor site. This model showcases how Soane reimagined his grand designs to suit the realities of a specific location, deftly incorporating an existing extended wing he had contributed to as a youthful apprentice under the tutorship of architect George Dance at just 15. It is not merely a piece of architectural brilliance but a part of the Pitzhanger Manor story and a testament to Soane’s creative resilience.
Perfectly timed with our current exhibition, Anthony Caro: The Inspiration of Architecture, the model invites a stimulating dialogue between the shared design philosophies of Soane and Caro. Caro’s exhibition features a collection of smaller models crafted in response to architectural designs on display in the Small Drawing Room at Pitzhanger Manor. Caro, like Soane, was fascinated with models, and both artists shared a unique understanding of light and space, thus sparking a visual conversation between two epochs of artistic and architectural grandeur.
In addition, we are pleased to showcase a unique collection of Roman fresco prints from the Villa Negroni, etched by Angelo Campanella based on original sketches by Anton Raphael Mengs and Anton von Maron. Generously donated by the Art Fund, these prints will accompany Soane’s model in our library.
The Villa Negroni was excavated in Rome in 1777, one year before Soane arrived on his Grand Tour. The frescoes caused a sensation across Europe and left an indelible mark on Soane, informing his architectural style in a significant way. From the arched doorways and domed ceilings to the colour palette and iconography, Soane’s architectural style at Pitzhanger Manor bears the profound influences of these Villa Negroni frescoes. Displaying these prints allows us to share a richer understanding of the underpinnings and inspirations that guided Soane’s architectural style.
We welcome you to experience the harmonious interplay of historical and contemporary art at Pitzhanger Manor. Immerse yourself in these rare glimpses into our rich past, and discover the stories they weave.
Categories Pitzhanger News Sir John Soane
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From 1800 to 1804 Sir John Soane, one of Britain’s most influential architects, designed and built Pitzhanger Manor as his dream country retreat in then rural Ealing.
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We are delighted to have acquired a set of ten prints of Roman frescoes from the Villa Negroni, thanks to the generous support of Art Fund.
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Pitzhanger Manor & Gallery
Ealing Green, London W5 5EQ
Ticketing, Opening Hours and Tour Enquiries: foh@pitzhanger.org.uk
Retail Enquires: retail@pitzhanger.org.uk
Reception: 020 3985 8888
Venue Hire: 020 3994 0966
Office: 020 3994 0967
Wednesday - Sunday: 10:00 - 17:00
First Thursday of the month: 10:00 - 20:00
Monday - Tuesday: Closed
Bank Holidays: 10:00 - 17:00
Last admissions 30 minutes before closing
Partial Closure: 17 October, 3–5pm
Please note that the Eating Room and the Upper Drawing Room in Pitzhanger Manor will be closed at 3–5pm on 17 October for a private function. Artworks in the affected space will be temporarily off view, but General Admission continues as usual. All rooms will be open before and after this time during our regular opening hours.
Questions? Email us at foh@pitzhanger.org.uk.
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