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

Tags   Art Fund News Sir John Soane Sir John Soane Museum

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