WILLIAM GEORGE'S SONS LTD 89 PARK STREET, BRISTOL 1 4 * DESCRIPTION FONTHILL ABBEY JN THE COUNTY OF WILTS; INCLUDING A LIST OF ITS PAINTINGS, CABINETS, &c. BY JOHN RUTTER. DE jEDE FONTHILLIANA. " Splendida frondosis surgit de montibus iEdes, u Tangit et augusta fronte superba polum: u Scilicet attonitus dubitat quid conspicit hospes, u An ccelum in terris, an super astra domos." THIRD EDITION. SHAFTESB UR V: PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY J. RUTTER; To be had of Longman, Hurst and Co. London; and of all Booksellers. 1822. [Entered at Stationer's Hall.'] ( ADVERTISEMENT FIRST EDITION. The curiosity of the public has long been excited respecting the spacious buildings and improvements, together with the various ornamental collections that have been preparing for many years at Font Mil f but the Tourist and Virtuoso have hitherto waited in vain for thai degree of perfection which the Proprietor re* quired, before he opened his domains to general view* It being now announced, that admission may be gained by Tickets, it is presumed that this compilation will prove both useful and pleasing to those persons who visit the elegant Demesne at Font hill; as well as form an agreeable substitute to others, whose situation or con~ venience will not allow that personal inspection of the cwrious and interesting mansion and its appendages^ which the proposed admission will afford to the spectator. The regular hours for admission to Fonthill Abbey Are from Ten to Five, by the Western Entrance, leading int* the great Hall ADVEHTISEMENt TO SECOND EDITION. It is now universally proclaimed that there is in Font- hill Abbey , a power to charm, far surpassing every effort hitherto made to pourtray those graceful and imposing Forms, which exhibit so much of novelty in combination and of grandeur in dimensions. It may be regarded as no indecisive Test of the sur* prising effect which the genius of Wyatt, under the as- cendency of a genius superior to his own has thus pro- duced, that in the judgment of many, who have again and again visited this -magnificent Gothic Pile, it possesses a character of sublimity, which the more it is contemplated, the more it is sure to communicate new and vivid impressions of wonder hiid delipht. That the surrounding scenery is worthy of the struc- ture by which it is ennobled and adorned, and that the costly and elaborate works' of art within the Abbey are rich and varied in a supreme degree, it is the object of these pages to shew; and the compiler seizes this opportunity of acknowledging his warm sense of obligation for the favourable reception with which the public have honoured his former edition of this work. *** The arrangement of this edition has been adapted to the present plan of exhibition pursued at the Abbey, sojts \ to render it more essentially useful to the visitor* ADVERTISEMENT 1 THIRD EDITION. The demand for this work is increasing daily \ and has tendered a third Edition necessary. The Author, while he gratefully acknowledges this ample remuneration of his labours, is far from ascribing to its own intrinsic inerits, so favourable and gratifying a reception of his tporlc. His descriptions, plain and simple, have, on ac* count of their fidelity, been found useful and acceptable. By no power of language could justice be rendered to the splendour of a building so gigantic in its outward structure, and so gorgeously arrayed within* That the critic eye should discover nothing, either defective or redundant, in this mighty mass, it were unreasonable to expect; but among the thousands who have gazed, with admiration, upon the infinitely varied outline of turrets, and pinnacles, and battlements, it has been pronounced, with one consenting voice, that there does not exist, in Europe, a Palace, claiming, with equal pretensions, to be the abode of royalty. Neither the Vatican, nor Ver- sailles, however rich in pomp and decoration, can vie with the airy forms and glowing colours spread over the great octagon, in the centre of this vast Edifice. Vlll Spain indeed, wlien,in the reign of the Caliph Abdatrah* man, she possessed, near to Cordova, a nobler Palace than that of the Escurial, might, possibly, have wrested the palm of grandeur from a structure, raised and decorated by a private individual, of our own country. The glories of Zehra, which belonged to the tenth Century, soon crumbled into dust. JLong may the same fate be averted from this rival of Saracenic magnificence! Long may it remain a monument to the fame of that distinguished Architect, who aspired to give a " local habitation" to the sublimely romantic conceptions of the author of Vathek* ! # Vathek aa Arabian Tale, was written by Mr. Beckfor^ ON A FIRST VIEW OP PONTHILL ABBEY, AUGUST 2lst. 1822* (Written for the Second Edition of J.Rutter's Description of the Abbey. J The mighty master wav'd his wand, and lo! On the astonish'd eye the glorious show Bursts, like a vision ! Spirit of the place, Has the Arabian wizard, with his mace Smitten the barren downs far onward spread, And bade th f enchanted Palace tow'r instead ? Bade the dark woods their solemn shades extend ? High to the clouds yon spiry tow 'r ascend ? And starting from th' umbrageous avenue, Spread the rich pile magnificent to view? Enter — from this archM portal, look again, Back, on the lessening woods and distant plain. Ascend the steps— the high and fretted roof Is woven by some Elfin hand aloof, Whilst from the painted windows' long array^ A mellow'd light is shed, as not of day. How gorgeous all! Oh never may the spell Be broken, that array'd those radiant forms so well. W. L. Bowles* ARRANGEMENT. SECTION Io Page Historical Sketch of Fonthill Gifford and its Possessors . • 1 SECTION II. A Descriptive Guide through the Abbey Grounds. 17 SECTION III. General Description of Fonthill Abbey, with its collection of Paintings, Cabinets and other curi- osities in the apartments successively shewn . . . # 25 viz. I. Cabinet Room SO II. New Room 40 III. China Closet 47 IV. Dutchess's Room 48 V. Tribune Room 49 VI. Lancaster Gallery.... 50 VII. Lancaster, or State Bed Room. 51 VIII. Edward the third's Gallery 53 IX. Sanctuary and Oratory 58 X. St. Michael's Gallery 59 XL Yellow Rooms.... 62 XII. Green Cabinet Room 63 XIII. Brown Parlour «. ... 65 XIV. The Nunneries 67 XV. The Tower ib, SECTION IV. A brief Notice of the outer Grounds and of the former Mansion 6§ SECTION I. HISTORICAL DESCRIPTION OF FONTHILL GIFFORD, AND ITS POSSESSORS. FONTHILL GIFFORD is situated in the south- western part of Wiltshire, and in the hundred of Dun- worth. It derives its name from the spring or fount issuing from under the hill, and from its having for- merly belonged to the family of Gilford. This family must anciently have been of great consequence, as according to the Domesday-survey made in the time of William the Conquerer, they possessed no less than fifteen manors in the county of Wilts. Three persons of this name are mentioned in Domesday-book : viz. 1. Walter GhTord, who held Bra kite, now Maiden- Bradley. B 2 butter's description 2. Berenger Gifford, who held Fontel, now Fonthili, and Bareford, now Barford. 3. Osbertus Gifford* held twelve manors: viz. two at Winterbourne, now Winterbourn-Stoke ; and one at each of the following places 3. Stantone or Stanton ; 4. Orcheston; 5. Midelton or Milton; 6. Coteford or Codford ; 7. Orcheston ; 8. Devril or Hill Deverell ; 9. Terinton or Titherington ; 10. Scarentone ; 11. Sca- rentone; 12. Ogeford or Ugford. The valuation of these fifteen manors at the period of the Conquest was equivalent to about £6000 per annum of the the present time. The description of Fontel was, that " Ewing held it in the time of Edward the Confessor, and it was then assessed at five hides. The land consists of seven carucates, and of these in demesne is one hide, where are three plough-lands and four servants. Six villagers * In 1285, Sir Osbert Gifford, knight, (probably a descendant from Osbertus,) was excommunicated by the Archbishop of Canterbury, for stealing two nuns from the convent at Wilton, but was absolved on the following conditions : That lie should not again enter into a nunnery or be in the company of nuns ; that on three following Sundays he should be whipt in the parish church of Wilton, and as many times in the mar- ket and church of Shaftesbury : — that he should fast a certain number of months, and not take upon him the habit or title of a knight, or wear any apparel except of a russet colour with lamb or sheep skins, or return into his military order ; — and, that he should restore the nuns to their convent to undergo the like conditions. All which he bound himself by oath to do ; the bishop of Salisbury prescribing the mode of his fasting till he had served three years in the Holy Land. OF FONT HI XX ATiBEY. and sixteen borderers occupy four plough-lands. The mill pays five shillings. There are seven acres of meadow. The pasture is half a league long and three quarentines or furlongs broad. The wood is half a mile long and a quarter broad* \Vas valued in the Confessor's time at a hundred shillings, but now at six pounds*. The next possessors of Fonthill Gifford on record were the Wests, afterwards Lords Delawar, who had large estates in the West of England* One of this family, Sir Thomas West, was a remarkable character ; in the 19th of Edw. II. he received the honour of knighthood by bathing, his robes and other accoutre- ments for the occasion being supplied out of the king'3 wardrobe. In the first year of Edw. III. we find that a patent was granted by that king, permitting Sir Thoma3 de West, knight, to make a castle of his manor house at * The servi or Servants were little better than slaves, who held some land at their lord's will, did his work, and were maintained by him. The Villani or Villagers held lands and performed services to their lord, though not immediately maintained by him, and all their property was at his service. The Bordarii or Borderers weie less servile tenants, each holding a bord or cottage with lands, supplying the lord's table with small provisions, and doing some services. The various services were in later times commuted by the payment of a small quit rent, and their tenure was the origin of our present copyholds. The Saxon hide and the Norman carucate signified so much arable land as could be tilled and managed in one year by a plough and its set of cattle, with houset and grass lands annexed thereto* 4 BUTTER'S DESCRIPTION Rughcombe*. This was situated within the precincts? of what is called Fonthill Parks ; but the precise spot cannot at this time be ascertained. In the fourth of Edw. III. Sir Thomas was made* governor of the Castle of Christchurch, in the county of Southampton : and in 1335 he attended on the king* in his expedition against Scotland, and also in that against Flanders soon after. In the 16th he was sent to France, where he shewed such additional merit, that the king appointed him to a seat in parliament among the barons of the realm, by the title of lord Delawar. Thomas, second lord Delawar, succeeded his father in 1344: and at his death, Thomas, third lord of that name, came into the possession of the estates and title. He attended on Henry V. during his wars in France, where he died, leaving bis brother Reginald his heir. The latter also served in France during the reign of Henry VI. and made two pilgrimages to Rome with a retinue of twenty-four servants and twelve horses. This lord appears to have united the manors of Fontel and Rughcombe into one, under the former title, as after him we find no mention of the latter. * Rughcombe is derived from the word Ridge (provincially Rudge) and Combe or Valley, i. e. The Ridge above the Valley, or the Valley of the Ridge. OF FONTH1LL ABBEY. Thomas, the sixth lord Delawar, is said to have been the last of this family who held Fonthill, and from him it passed to William lord Moulins, who bequeathed it to his daughter Eleanor. By her marriage it was after- wards conveyed to the Hungerfords, and thence to the ancient family of the Mervins*. By the marriage of Lucy, daughter and heiress of Sir James Mervin, knight, with George, lord Audley, it came to that nobleman, who was afterwards created earl of Castlehaven by king James I. in 1617. It con- tinued in that family till the attainder of Mervin, lord Audley, when it was granted to Sir Francis, afterwards Lord Cottington ; a courtier of high reputation for integrity and plain dealing, yet much esteemed by king James and his successor ; as appears by the following anecdotes concerning him, related by lord Clarendon and other writers. In the time of king James I. when a treaty of mar- riage was on foot between prince Charles the king's son and the Infanta of Spain, and the prince with the duke of Buckingham had resolved on a romantic ex- pedition to that country, — they fixed on Sir Francis Cottington and Endymion Porter to accompany them, * In Tisbury Church is a monument to Ann daughter of Edward Mer- vin, Esq. of Fonthill, and wife of Matthew Daviss, Esq. of the Middle Temple, London. The latter was born at Chicksgrove, in the parish of Tisbury, and was brother to Sir John Daviss or Davies, knight, an eminent Uwyer, poet, and political writer, a native also of Chicksgrove. 0 RUTTEH'S DESCRIPTION but delayed to impart the secret to those gentlemen until they Mere ready to embark and had procured the king's assent to their adventure. This consent being reluctantly granted, and the two names men- tioned, the king sent for Sir Francis, and asked what he thought of the journey; to which the latter replied unfavourably, much to the dissatisfaction of the prince and his favourite. The latter, however, persisting ill their determination, Cottington received orders to prepare every thing for that purpose. The result confirmed the propriety of the knight's advice ; the arrival of the party occasioned at first a protrac- tion, and afterwards a discontinuance of the negoci- ation, through the misconduct of the Duke of Buck- ingham. Sir Francis returned first, and the others were not long after in their arrival at Portsmouth and London. In another affair concerning the restitution of tbo Palatinate, iri Germany, of which the king's son-in-law }jad been dispossessed, — Sir Francis, who " had not grown courtier enough to dissemble his opinion," again offended the duke by asserting the sincerity of the king of Spain; but ultimately Buckingham did justice to Cottington s character, and paid him some marked attentions. Sir Francis was twice ambassador in Spain, where he acquitted hiniself much to the satisfaction of his royal master. He was raised to the peerage by the OF FONTH1LL ABBEY. 7 title of lord Cottington, baron of Hanworth in the county of Middlesex, and made successively lord High Treasurer, constable of the Tower, first master of the Court of Wards, and Chancellor of the Exchequer, under Charles I. with whom he was in high esteem, notwithstanding his ingenuous conduct and sincerity in delivering his opinion. Lord Clarendon says, that archbishop Laud was appointed one of the commissioners of the Treasury, in 1635 : " but he sometimes fell into very warm dis- putes with lord Cottington, Chancellor of the Exche- quer, who is said to have taken all opportunities of imposing upon him." The king had formed an inten- tion of making a park between Richmond and Hamp- ton Court, much to the discontent of the people in that neighbourhood ; and the archbishop being de- sirous of procuring a little popularity, endeavoured to gain the chancellor's assistance in setting aside the scheme. The latter, however, pretended to favour the plan, and warmly contradicted the arguments ad- duced by Laud; whereupon the latter in a rage went to the king, and informed him of what had passed ; but James coolly replied : " My lord, you are de- ceived, Cottington is too hard for you : upon my word, he hath dissuaded me more, and given me more rea- sons against this business, than all other men in England have done. You see how unjustly your passion hath transported you.'' It may be inferred that the anger of the archbishop was by no means 8 butter's description abated on finding the imposition practised upon his credulity. The supposed attachment of lord Cottington to the Spanish court, and his protection of the papists, had caused him to be rather unpopular in those times of reciprocal virulence; but these are favourable traits in his character, as the Spanish court had been un- civilly treated, and the persecutions of the papists in England had been conducted with an unjustifiable degree of severity. His office in the court of Wards was of an obnoxious nature, as by the existing cus- tom of wardships, great sums were levied upon the minors and other persons, in order to supply the king's coffers; but lord Cottington's general character forbids a belief that his conduct was marked by any peculiar severity. The court of Wards was abolished in the succeeding reign of Charles II, After the decease of Francis lord Cottington, who died June 19th, 1652, Fonthill was possessed by his son, who by some means during the civil wars gave offence to the parliament, whereupon they confiscated his estates, and gave Fonthill to Bradshaw, their president. This offence probably was the harbouring and assisting the earl of Marlborough, on his design to relieve Wardour Castle, when besieged by the Parliamentary forces; but at a later period lord Cottington and his friends formed a strong party, which enabled him to resume possession of Fonthill, OF FONTHILIi ABBEY. 9 and to maintain himself there against the kinsman and heir of Bradshhw, until the restoration of Charles II, to the throne of his ancestors. The Cottington family continued to possess the manor and estates of Fonthill, until it was purchased by William Beckford, Esq. a gentleman well known by his public conduct, which procured him the high approba- tion of his fellow citizens of London. His extensive property had been much increased by the emoluments arising from large estates in the island of Jamaica; and his hospitable disposition, together with his general liberality and support of numerous public institutions, concurred to procure for him a popu- larity, which has scarcely been exceeded by any citizen whatever in modern times. His first seat in parliament was as representative for the borough of Shaftesbury in 174G, and he was afterwards chosen for other places; among which he represented the county of Middlesex. He was elected Lord Mayor of the city of London in 1763, and again filled that office in 1769-70. It was during his second mayoralty that he presented the notable remonstrance from the citizens of London, which gave high offence to the court party, but was sanctioned by a great ma- jority of his fellow citizens; on which account, as well as for his general conduct, a monument or ceno- taph was erected after his decease, in commemoration 10 KUTTElt S DESCRIPTION of his character and behaviour during the high poli- tical contests of that period. It appears to be most generally allowed at this time, that notwithstanding the amiable private character of the late king, the political conduct of his ministers during that part of his reign was in several instances unconstitutional and subversive of the liberties of his subjects; par- ticularly by the issuing of general warrants and the expulsion of John Wilkes from his seat in parliament; the former of which was declared illegal by the chief jugt{ee Pratt, afterwards lord Camden, and the pro* ceedings against Wilkes were afterwards virtually re- voked by an erasure of them from the records of the House of Commons. The above-mentioned remonstrance from the Citizens and livery of London was presented by him on the of May 1770, and " prayed for the dissolution of parliament, and for the removal of evil-minded persons from the cabinet and council of his Majesty, who bad violated the freedom of election, and sub- verted the fundamental laws and liberties of this realm." " The Address also lamented in very strong terms, the displeasure his Majesty had expressed at the sub- stance and prayer of their former petitions, to which however they stilt resolved to adhere, and again renewed their prayer for a dissolution of parliament and a change of men aud measures," At the time of presenting this remonstrance, \Y :J OF FO NTH ILL ABBEY. 11 Beckford w as labouring under the commencement of a disease, which was probably increased by the agitation of political disseutions then existing, and his decease occurred during his mayoralty, a few months from that time. In the following July the Court of Com- mon Council passed an unanimous vote that a statue in the Guildhall, London, should be raised to his me* mory, inscribed with the words of his memorable ex- tempore reply to the sovereign, on receiving an un- favourable answer to the city remonstrance. The po- sition of the figure is said to be that in which he ad* dressed the king, his right hand being elevated and spread, and his left nearly pendant ; the head reclines towards the right shoulder. He is habited in a long gown, loose coat, and full head-dress, according to the costume of oflice in those times, and at the corners of the pedestal are two female figures, seated, emblematio of London and Commerce, in mournful attitudes. His reply to the king is inscribed on a tablet at his side, aa4 is couched iu the following terms : " Most gracious Sovereign, M Will your Majesty be pleased so far to condescend* as to permit the mayor of your loyal city of London to declare in your royal presence, on behalf of his fellow- citizens, how much the bare apprehension of your majesty's displeasure would at all times affect their minds. The declaration of that displeasure has already filled them with inexpressible anxiety, and with the deepest affliction. Permit me, sire, to assure your 12 hi tter's description majesty, that your majesty kas not in all your dominions any subjects more faithful, more dutiful, or more affec- tionate to your majesty's person and family, or more ready to sacrifice their lives and fortunes in maintenance of the true honour and dignity of your crown. We do, therefore, with the greatest humility and submission, most earnestly supplicate your majesty, that you will ilot dismiss us from your presence without expressing a more favourable opinion of your faithful citizens, and without some comfort, without some prospect, at least, of redress. m Permit me, sire, to observe, that whoever has al- ready dared, or shall hereafter endeavour, by false in- sinuations and suggestions, to alienate your majesty's affections from your loyal subjects in general, and from the city of London in particular, is an enemy to your majesty's person and family, a violator of the public peace, and a betrayer of our happy constitution, as it was established at the glorious revolution." Whatever construction may be put upon this effusion of patriotism or of indignation, so far as it related to the royal personage to whom it was addressed, it will per* haps be acknowledged to have exhibited an uncommon degree of resolution and presence of mind; and the truth of the accusations made against the king's advisers is confirmed by the general opinion of later times and the evidence of succeeding events. The proceed- ings of the earl of Bute and his successors had occa- OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 13 stened much discontent, and the more recent appoint- ment of lord North and his colleagues was under the same corrupt influence; the war with the North Arae-, rican colonies soon followed, and a further train of evil consequences ensued, which are too generally known to need illustration. If the advice of the citizens of Lon- don and other places had heen followed, at least by a change of measures, and a more temperate conduct of ministers, the unhappy contests of the last fifty years might have been much softened, if not entirely avoided, and the improvement of this nation proceeded in a man- ner more consistent with its peace and prosperity, under the virtuous example of the sovereign*. * The account given in Bisset's History of the Reign of George III. de- mands some remark. His character of the chief magistrate and citizens of London implies a great degree of ignorance or of presumption, and is con- tradictory to his own views of the conduct of the ministers. Bisset says, vol. II. p. 20 of 2d ed. 44 Though his majesty himself proposed to govern the kingdom by wisdom and virtue, and not by party, yet that was thought to be far from lord Bute's object," — and after stating that nobleman's par- tiality to 44 his own friends, 1 ' he says p. 207, " The administration of lord Bute teaches us an instructive lesson, that no man can be long an effectual minister of this country, who will not occasionally attend, not only to the well-founded judgment, but also to the prejudices of Englishmen." Bisset further states, 44 That the ministers who succeeded the earl of Bute and his colleagues, were nevertheless his partizans and followed his steps : yet these were the men respecting whom," he says, ! 44 he (the lord mayor) did not allow their just weight to talents, rank, and high office." It is however evident that if these were sufficient to form a criterion of excellence, every minister must be an object of adoration rather than of [complaint, whatever may have been the malversation in the conduct of public affairs; such sentiments might be consistent with the character of a hireling and time-server, but by no means with that of an impartial his* historian, 14 ruttkr's description The present possessor of Fontliill was a minor at the time of his father's death. Few houses in the kingdom exceeded in grandeur that which was built by alderman Beckford, near to the site of the former mansion which was destroyed by fire. That so magnificent a building should have been taken down, excited feelings of regret in many, but it could occasion no surprise to those who were acquainted with one great inducement to its demo- lition, which was, the low, damp, and aguish situation in which- it stood; whereas, from the superior elevation and drier soil, together with the profusion of aromatic herbs and shrubs, intermingled with plantations of pines of various kinds, amidst which the new and mag- nificent abode of the Abbey is situated, nothing can ex- ceed the purity and salubrity of its balmy atmosphere. To those who recollect the wild scene of naked bar- renness formerly exhibited by the whole of the ground, which is now enriched with magnificent buildings and extensive plantations, the contrast produces impressions approaching as nearly as possible, to what is felt, when having the fancy charmed by delightful ideas, we call it enchantment : " The desart smiled " And paradise was opened in the wild V 9 That it required the power of something like the magician's wand, to produce this striking contrast, and to create this fairy land, must be acknowledged by all. OF FONTHITX ABBEY. Never perhaps was the triumph of art, over nature, more decided and complete; but it is they only who know, by what slow degrees* and by what repeated touches of a master's hand, such effects can be produced, who are qualified to appreciate that consummate taste, which has thrown nature's own most graceful drapery over the furzy common and the gloomy heath. Still more, to raise a mountain in the midst of the wild, to give it the mixt character of a royal palace and a religious retirement, to combine under one roof the detached and scattered specimens of Gothic architec- ture, demanded Genius, Fortune, Ardour, Perseverance; and it is to this rare assemblage of talents, with means, in Mr. Beckford, that the British Public are indebted for the treat that is set before them ; and which they will relish with the greater zest, because this great work, unseen in its early and progressive state, remained inac- cessible until the present hour, when, as if starting sud- denly into existence, Fonthill Abbey appears the finished accomplishment of a stupendous design. ft A DESCRIPTIVE GUIDE! THROUGH THE ABBEY GROUNDS, HAVING completed otir Historical Sketch of Font- hill Gifford, we must now introduce the Visitor to thes Grounds immediately surrounding the Abbey. Fonthill Demesne is situate on the Western turnpike road from London, about fourteen miles from Salisbury and two from Hiridon.* The Visitors who Come from Shaftesbury dr other places westward, are advised to go through Hindon, and proceed a little more than a milt on the London road till they reach Fonthill Bishop, (where they are met by those who come from Salisbury and the eastern road) * Visitors will find good accommodations and meet with every atten- tion, at the Lamb Inn, Hindon, and at the Beckfjrd Arms, Fonthill Giabrd. C 18 butter's description and enter by an outer Gate leading directly to the rusticated ARCHED GATEWAY, called the Lodge, designed by Inigo Jones, with a Por- ter's Lodge on each side. Passing through the old Park to the Inn at Fonthill Gifford, and a few hundred yards further to the westward we enter the INNER GROUNDS, which immediately surround the Abbey, inclosed by a wall of considerable height, defended at the top by chevaux de frize. The circumference of this extensive inclosure measures about seven miles, Lut is so laid out with almost innumerable paths, as to allow within it a ride of twenty-seven miles without retracing a single step ; and it may on the whole be considered as an im- mense labyrinth of combined art and nature. On passing the entrance, the Visitor proceeds almost directly to the Abbey, by a gravel road, which leads to a view of the eastern front, and passing by the open cloisters to the south, he is set down opposite the great [western entrance of the building. * To those who have time and inclination, we strongly recommend a ride through some of the varied Walks withiiv this enclosure, which we shall endeavour to describe. Setting out from the entrance towards th« OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 19 FOREST LAWN, abounding with American and other exotic oaks in high perfection, with the Beacon in front at some considerable distance ; we proceed to the clerk's walk, which on the left passes by the western front of the Abbey. " A narrow mossy alley on the right, closely shaded, conducts to a path bordered with the scarlet thorn, and extending more than a mile, presents, during spring and summer, a beautiful and fascinating display of flowers, luxuriant shrubs, and variegated hollies. The parts above described are on the north side of the Abbey. Inclining to the north-west, we enter another path, called THE NINE MILES RIDE, being part of one of twenty-seven miles, which may be taken within the grounds; on each side are broad spaces covered with flowers, which appear to be culti- vated with peculiar care, enclosed by a large forest of trees ; the way may be pursued in a winding course to the summit of the GREAT AVENUE. Having attained the eminence, as we turn to the east, the Abbey bursts upon the view in solemn and im- posing majesty. This point is the north-western ex- tremity of the grounds, whence a folding gate opens into the public road ; crossing which, another gate leads to the 20 kutter's description TERRACE, a woody ridge, that extends about five miles from west to east, planted almost exclusively with the Larch, the Pine, and the Beech, Turning at the extremity of the great avenue, to to the left, the prospect ranges over a country extensive and delightfully diversified. Among the most prominent objects are Alfred's Tower, and part of the grounds at Stourhead, the, seat of Sir Richard Colt lloare, Bart. ; which we shall have occasion to notice in describing the surrounding country, as viewed from the Abbey Tower. Ascending the new terrace, the ground upon the right, is an abrupt steep, crowned with large trees of various kinds ; on the left, is a deep woody bottom, c idled BITHAM WOOD. Turning out of this path at an acute angle to the left, and pursuing the walk through a narrow passage in the . wood, we arrive at the BEACON, one of the loftiest points in the whole sweep of hills, for which this part of the country is remarkable. The summit of this hill was intended for the site of a mag- nificent tower; the foundations of which were laid by the late alderman Beckford ; the walls having been raised to the height of ten feet only at the time of his death. This tower was intended to have been the rival of Alfred's Tower ; it is of triangular form, having a circular bastion at each of its angles, and OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 21 leing overgrown with shrubs and moss in a very pic- turesque manner. Declining towards the south-east, a most interesting prospect is suddenly and agreeably presented*. Over a long extent of ground, varied by gentle undulations, and fiuely broken by an intervening valley, presenting a rich assemblage of glowing and luxurious tints, appears the Abbey, forming a grand mass of embattled towers, surmounted by the lofty octagon tower which composes the centre. TMs enchanting scenery is backed by an elevated wood-land of a sombre aspect, which by contrast heightens the striking and brilliant effect of the edifice. Descending into the bottom, a fine pellucid LAKE reflects the surrounding beauties of the place; it is in some parts of unfathomable depth, and has the appear- ance of the crater of an exhausted volcano ; stretching and meandring so as to give an idea of even much greater magnitude than it possesses. The lake is plentifully supplied with wild fowl, and the woodcock has frequently chosen this sequestered valley for her nest. As shooting is not permitted within the enclo- sure, every animal sports undisturbed; and conscious of security, the hares will sometimes feed at the horses 5 feet, and frequently associate in great numbers within a few paces of the windows. * The engraved view in this Guide was. taken from this point. 22 rutter's description Passing through a sheltered walk, bordered on one side with the hardiest English and Mediterranean heaths, the AMERICAN PLANTATION is seen broken into picturesque forms by the margin of the water. This plantation is principally formed upon the declivity of a large knowl, and covers a con- siderable number of acres. On the west side is an island exhibiting every variety of the Magnolia, Azalea, and Rododendron Ponticum; which, although they have been planted but a short time, have the appearance of the spontaneous produce of the soil, flowering with all that kind of luxuriance, which they assume in their native land. Passing by the west side of the Lake towards the south, you will reach a complete underwood of the most choice varieties of Azaleas, viz. Coccinea Aurantina, Coccinea Major Flammea, and every other variety, flowering most magnificently, with some unique specimens of American and other trees towering above them. On the right is another grove of the Rhododendron Ponticum and Maximum, aspiring to the height of our common horse chesnut, and flowering to the very summits, intermixed with the Rosa Carolinensis, growing similar to our common tubus fruticosus. To the left, U a groupe of the Magnolia tribe, some of the specimens rising in luxuriance, with the beech and firs above them : near to this are some very fine specimens of Calkanthus Floridus, flowering in such OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 23 abundance as to extend their perfume over the whole of the American Ground. The Robinia Lutifolia and Angustifolia also grow here, with the different species of Andromeda, from Arborea, down to the most diminutive kind. Like- wise the Loedum and Clcethra with all their varieties, and Arbutus growing to the size of the Portugal Laurel. At a short distance is a Basin of Water, with a fine spring, covered with Nymphea Alba and Lutea, with the banks thickly clothed with Rhododendron, Angelica and other American plants, in their native splendour. Proceeding from this delightful plantation " in a direction south-east, there is a romantic hollow, made still more interesting by the works that are here erected for supplying the Abbey with water. A wheel about twenty-four feet in diameter is put into motion by a stream conducted from the lake through a wooden trough, several smaller water-courses assisting in the operation ; the water thus raised to a certain level in the hydraulic machine, is passed into pipes, and con- veyed under ground to the house : — the whole con- trivance being remarkably simple, and reflecting great credit on the inventor. Approaching from this pic- turesque dell to the southern side of the Abbey, we 24 RUTTER'tf DESCRIPTION arrive at a small garden, surrounded by a light iron fence, which is called the CHINESE GARDEN, particularly appropriated to the culture of the rarest flowers. From the Chinese Garden, a winding walk between the tree?, leads to the LARGE GREEN AVENUE, extending three quarters of a mile, in a direct line, by which the Visitor returns to the great western entrance of the Abbey. SECTION III. GENERAL DESCRIPTION or FONTHILL ABBEY, WITH ITS COLLECTION OF PAINTINGS, CABINETS, AND OTHER CURIOSITIES. FONTHILL ABBEY is built in the conventual style of architecture, upon a commanding eminence, after a " design of Mr. James Wyatt's, aided by the acknowledged taste of Mr. Beckford, and consists of three grand and leading features conjoined by the galleries and cloisters. In the centre is the great Hall and principal Tower ; towards the north are two large square towers, which are balanced at the other extremity, or southern end, by a groupe of varied Edifices, with embattled parapetst" The great Tower, which is two hundred and seven- ty-six feet in height, rises between four pediments, 26 rutter's description whose projections form the two stories of apartments around the octagon; the upper apartments having a Catherine-wheel window upon a level with openings of the same description, seen within the octagon. Nearly under the Tower is the western cloister, behind which is a square paved court, having in its •centre a fountain that plays into a large marble basin. Between two octangular towers, south of the cloister, is an oriel of two stories, attached to the brown parlour below, and yellow damask room above ; the tower on the north side of the oriel contains various apartments ; that on the south side is a staircase to this part of tho buildings. On the south side of the " yellow damask room and the private Library is a richly ornamented cloister of pointed arches, their outer mouldings terminated by beads beautifully wrought : answering to each of the arches, are the parlour windows, their upper com- partments filled with delicate tracery and painted glass. From the square tower towards the east pro* jcets the south oriel, forming the extremity of tho long gallery, which measures three hundred and thirty feet ; the upper part of the window is of stained glass, representing four of the fathers of the church ; the lower part, like most of the windows throughout the building, is of the finest plate glass, and of uncommon OP FONTHILL ABBEY. 27 size. Below the window is a pointed door leading to the lobby of the parlour." The eastern side contains an " oriel richly carved, with shields, armorial bearings, and other devices ; the window is ornamented with the figures of St. Columba, St. Etheldreda, Venerable Bede, and Roger Bacon, in stained glass, by Eggington." " The offices, stables, workshops for the artificers, &c. are all on this side, closely encompassed by a wood of firs, beech, and other large trees, and so enclosed as to cause no disparagement to the view." On approaching the great WESTERN ENTRANCE, the visitor is struck with the majestic dimensions of a pair of oak gothic doors, thirty- three feet high to the point of the arch, ornamented with crockets and beauti- fully wrought fineal. These doors are suspended upon eight hinges, which weigh more than a ton, but which are so constructed as to allow the doors to swing with the greatest facility. This entrance admits into the HALL, which is built in the ancient baronial style, seventy-eight feet high, sixty-eight feet long, and twenty-eight feet wide. The oak roof appears particularly striking, and 28 RUTTEIiS DESCRIPTION is decorated with sixty-eight shields, emblazoned with various family quartering^. The light is admitted by three gothic windows of painted glas3, on the right hand ; the compartments of which are copied from some very ancient specimens in Canterbury cathedral. On the left are three recesses hung with crimson curtains, to correspond with the windows ; in the cen- tre one is placed a marble statue of the late alderman Reckford, in his robes of office, as lord Mayor of London, holding in his right hand a copy of the Magna Charta. A spacious MUSIC GALLERY, guarded by a front of beautiful stone screen- work, sur- mounted by a crimson cushion, is placed over the inside §4 rutter's description able collection of sculptured vessels of various rarities, amongst which may be enumerated, a vessel of compressed oval shaped, formed of a large block of sardonyx, hollowed out, and the surface incrusted with foliage of good design, and sharpest execution. Sculptured satyrs' heads form the handles of the vase. The bottom is externally carved with foliage, and af- fords reason for believing that this rare and very cu- rious article (which is undoubtedly of classical anti- quity) must have been executed by a Greek artist. It is protected at the top by a rim of fine gold, A vase, perfectly unique, formed of the largest known block of Hungarian topaz, hollowed out with vast labour, and externally sculptured, mounted with a dragon handle of gold enamel, set with dia- monds, and supported on a tripod stand, formed of three small dragons green and blue enamel : the feet connected by festoons and scroll-work of rich cinque- cento designs, set with diamonds and a variety of precious stones. The whole is of the undoubted exe- cution of Bemcnuto Cellini, and made by him for a marriage present to Catherine Cornaro, whose portrait is in this collection. A circular deep salver of limosin enamel, on copper, embellished with a procession of Diana and nymphs returning from the chase ; the border of Raf- faelesque device; the bowl of the salver is also exter- nally decorated with cinque cento masks and ornaments. OF FONTHILL ABBEY. It was made for Henry II. of France, and was presen- ted by him to Diana de Poictiers. It is mounted with a central boss bearing her cypher, a triple crescent and inscription; and the border also enriched with monograms. Two handled tazzas and linners of gold, on plinth, supported by four winged chimeras, designed by Mouette, and executed by Auguste, 1793, at Paris, ornamented by a border of Arabesque figures and cupids, with mask and snake handles ; the whole finished with unrivalled excellence. On each side of this cabinet, stands a pair of superb ebony and buhl candelabras, massively mounted with or-moulU) finely chased and gilt, surmounted with green marble slabs, on one of which stands a sumptuous ebony cabinet, composed of choice flo- rentine mosaic, divided by solid ebony columns, having or-moulu caps and bases, also various rich mouldings; the w hole finely chased and, gilt, surmounted by $ slab of fine Griotta marble. On the right-hand side of the door stands a superb and matchless buhl and tortoiseshell commode, of exquisite workmanship, and with or-moulu mould- ings, beautifully chased and gilt, surmounted by a green marble slab, supporting a gold japan tray, with musical instruments represented upon it 5 and flowery on avanturine ground. 36 RUTTEIt'S DESCRIPTION To the left of the door also stands a singuta?ff beautiful and costly armoire, composed of ebony* the centre supported by-two fluted columns, with ca- pitals of or~mouht, between which is a superb panne! of Florentine mosaic ; a vase of flowers, composed of the rarest gems, and a tablet of the same above ; four small drawers with birds on each side : above, is a low glazed repository and a small door at each end A fronted with Florentine gems : the mouldings are of chased or-moulu, in rich and handsome taste. On this Armoire stand two silver-gilt cups and covers most elaborate and masterly specimens of chasing! The upper part of the vase, which meets the lid, is enlarged by six spherical embossed chasings, each or- namented with mythological groupes; the slender waist of the vessel is embellished with emblematical figures and devices in exquisite cinque cento taste, and other prominent chasings complete the bowl of the vase : the stem and foot display a rival workmanship to that of Cellini. On the cover, which ig correspond dently shaped, are birds in high relief, surrounding a pedestal which supports a-, small figure of Jupiter, with his eagle and fulm en of pure gold. This incom- parable work of art is the chef cV centre of Roema^ who has added his portrait in a medal under the foot, with the date 1586. The inside of the armoire is fitted up with a silver- gilt ewer and cover of elegant form, finely engraved with masks, scrolls, &c. in the Tuscan style, witfe €P FONTHILL ABBEY. 37 ^bony handles. An oval cup of red and yellow jasper, scolloped in eight divisions, engraved, mount- ed silver-gilt, incrusted with sixteen turquoises and four vermillions. A rare and curious cinque cento coffer, in or-moulu, chased and engraved, embel- lished with twelve pannels of Italian enamels, of his- torical subjects. A very large b&ood^stone .cup., mounted in gold and silver, chased and engraved^ anamelled, and decorated with rubies. A precious Mocoa mamillated c.alcedony ewer, mounted in silver-gilt, most elaborately and delicately chased and engraved, with fluted lip, tendril handle, aiid figured ornaments . On the eastern side, on a four-tier ebony music stand, with or-moulu and gilt mouldings, and greeii velvet top, stands a magnificent ebony coffer, the pannels of beautiful Florentine mosaic j on the corners are bunches of fruit of raised mosaic, with or-moulu feet and ornaments, exquisitely chased and gilt, fitted up with internal tray, lined with crimson velvet, with chased handles^ locks and hmges, silver-gilt, from the Pitti palace. Amongst the paintings in this room the following ■$?e selected. A full length portrait of the present proprietor of Foiithill, and on the right hand another of jthe dutches of Hamilton his daughter. 39 kutter's description On the west side over the door, is the interior of a grand saloon of pictures, with characteristic speci- mens of the works of several distinguished painters, beautifully coloured, v , Van Qpstael*. Over the recess on the eastern side is the picture of Abraham and Isaac proceeding to the place of sacrifice, by the late president TVestt. * This famous painter ( Opstael) was born at Antwerp in 1660, where he studied for many years. He copied Rubens and other great masters with a freedom of pencil, a tint of colouring, and a touch nearly resembling the originals. His compositions embellish several of the Churches in the Nether- lands. He had a good genius for design, in which he shewed correctness and taste ; he composed his subjects readily, and in his colouring he was very agreeable, so that he was considered as one of the principal painters of his time, being particularly distinguished for brilliancy in his touch, and freedom in his handling. f Benjamin West was a native of Springfield, in Pensylvania, to which province some of his ancestors had emigrated with William Penn. It is stated that the family was lineally descended from Lord Delawar, a distinguished warrior under Edward III. Colonel James West, the friend and companion in arms of John Hampden, against king Charles I. is said to have been the first of that name who embraced the tenets of the Quakers. The progressive developement of B. West's abilities is a remarkable instance of the force of natural genius. At the age of seven years, his first sketch was of a sleeping infant, for which, and other performances, his only materials were pens, ink, and paper. Some Indians, on a visit to Springfield, taught him to prepare their usual colours of red and yellow, and his mother kindly added a piece of indigo. He was told of camels hair pencils, but the hair of a cat's tail afforded the only substitute, un- til a box of paints and brushes were sent to him as a present. With these he secreted himself, until his absence from school, §c. occasioned some expostulation, which produced an exhibition of his labours, and converted censure into applause. He was soon introduced to more ex- perienced artists, and made such progress, that in 1760, being then about twenty-two years of age, he embarked for Italy; whence, after sosa* OF FONTHILL ABBEY, 39 On the left of this recess, over the door, is a por- trait of the present proprietor, by Romney y and over the other door, the Dutchess of Hamilton, his daughter, by Phillips. To the left of the door leading into the octagon is a length portrait of Mrs. Peter Beckford, sister of Lord Rivers, by Sir Joshua Reynolds. A curious Enamel of Philip and Mary, with the red and white roses and inscription. A curious and choice painting of the Conflagration of Troy Peter Peter sz Breughel. The Marriage of St. Catharine G. Bellini. This admirable specimen is finely coloured, and the sub- ject is treated with great taste. It Mas formerly in the Oratory of the Doge Loredano. A Lady in a Red Corset and Satin Dress Fragonard. The Lady is represented in the Interior of an Apartment, standing by her Female Attendant who is kneeling and stay, he proceeded to London, and was prevailed upon to remain, in- stead of returning to America. In 1765, he was chosen a member and director of the Society of Artists, on which was afterwards founded the Royal Academy. He was elected president of the latter, in 1791, and received various other honours, amongst which was that of Knighthood. His battle of the Boyne, and fight off Cape la Ilogue, are well known pieces, and his Penn's Treaty with the Indians, and West's family, are favourites with those who prefer the more harmless scenes of equitable arrangement and domestic comfort. * Among the most noted of his later productions are, C rist healing the sick, and the presentation of him by Filate to the Jews In brief ; the variety end excellence of his perfor- mances have constituted him the greatest /Ji*to)\cal painter of the age %M private conduct rendered him an ornament to society. rutter's description chastising a favourite Spaniel, This piece is treated in the delicate and high finished manner of the Dutch School. Over the mantle piece, is a small portrait of thte Earl of Hertford, afterwards the Protector^ Duke of Somerset ......,...«, Holbein, Conversation of Christ and Nicodemus, by Candle- light., and Priam's Dream, a pair . . . . f . . Steenwick. Christ, and the Woman touching the Hem of his Garment . •••••••••• Francesco Cagliari* This Cabinet specimen is very spirited and finely colour- ed, and contains a groupe of many figures. From the dining room the visitor is shewn into the NEW ROOM,, which is fitted up with crimson hangings, and contains a very valuable collection of cabinets, paintings, &c ? East Side.~-A superb jewel cabinet of ebony and other costly materials in imitation of an archi* tectural facade : the niches, in the centre, are filled with small groupes by Bauchardon, being the original models, in miniature, by that distinguished French sculptor, for the embellishment of & Public Fountain constructed by him in Paris, They are placed within columns of Rosso Antico ; the pannels of the drawers are of lapis lazuli and blood stone, set with forty ruf bies and emeralds ; the ornaments are richly chased and gilt, and the stand is in correspondent taste. Two fine buhl commodes, witli richly chased and gilt or-moulu mouldings, surmounted by a green m^uv OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 4\ ble slab ? and supporting two magnificent crystal cask'* £ts, one of which belonged to Pope JLeo X. A pair of ebony commodes, with carved doors^ supported on each side by ebony columns, with or- moulu caps bases and mouldings, and with a Idack and gold marble slab, on which stand two gilt baskets^ formed of ears of wheat, of the finest workmanship. North Side. — A superb cabinet of goLp japan, and various foreign woods, on a stand ornamented with or-moulu 9 the frieze most exquisitely phased an^ gilt, surmounted by an Egyptian granite slab, made by Auguste, supporting a many-sided japa# bowl 3 a rare specimen, on mosaic or-moulu pedestal, after the antique, by Moette and Auguste, formed of yving> ed chimeras, and rim, on ebony plinth. West Side. — A fine ebony commode, with mosaic pannels, architeptural centre and wings, richly orna- mented with or-moulu^ five feet three inches long ; witjjjt black marble slab. In this apartment are also placed six ebony chairs^ carved and on silver castors, which originally belong- ed to Cardinal Wolsey, and were brought froiji hif palace at Esher. From the many very valuable paintings in thj^ proom ajre selected, 42 rutter's description The Interview between Job and his Friends. Salvator Rosa*. One of Job's friends habited as a philosopher, is repre- sented in the act of reasoning with him, while a soldier, clad in armour, with uplifted arms, and bitter expressions of grief upon his lips, is commiserating the patriarch. The tempter appears above. The pathos of the story is greatly enhanced by the solemnity of the colouring. This painting was formerly in the Santa Croce collection, and has always been considered to be one of the finest of Salvator Rosa's productions. Ecce Homo Salario. The character of the Saviour is contrasted by that of two others, one front face, the other in profile ; the drapery of the former, open in front, exposes the livid marks of stripes upon his body — very richly and finely coloured. A small Landscape with Cattle Bergkem^ This pure and exquisite bijou was formerly in the Cabi* net of Praslin, and was painted by Berghem expressly for Slingehandt. The Cattle are feeding and reposing on a ris* * This admired painter, (Salvator Rosa) was born at Naples, in 1614 lie studied design and colouring under his kinsman Francesco Francasano. On the death of his Father, he was reduced to extreme poverty, and supported himself by sketching designs on paper. Lanfranc, a noted historical painter, was so struck by his picture of Hagar and lshmael, that he took him under his protection, and enabled him to study under Spagnoleilo and Falcon*, which greatly improved his stvle and colouring. Salvator had an enlarged and comprehensive genius, a lively, fertile, and poetic imagination. He studied nature with a sagacious attention and exquisite judgment. He executed his subjects in such a taste, anc^ with such spirit, as render his works readily distinguishable from most other painters, by the inimitable freedom of his pencil and that fir^ which animates every part of his composition. His works are exce^d^ fh^ly rare and Aaluable, OP FONTHILL ABBEY. 43 ing pasture ground: a Shepherd and Shepherdess piping on the left; with a hilly distance and a very brilliant sky. A Lady feeding* a Parrot F. Mieris^ the elder* This rare and precious gem is from the Cabinet de Pras* lin 5 No. 68. The Laughing Boy, with a toy in his hand, half figure , L. da Vinci.* This beautiful bit of nature exhibits with the happiest ef- fect, the truth and sweetness which distinguish the works of this great master. It was brought to this country by the late Sir William Hamilton. The SeaPortj or " Embarquement de Vivres." Berghem. This celebrated painting belonged to the Praslin Cabinet, and was considered as one of the three principal ornaments of that collection. It represents a groupe of figures and cattle on the shore of the Gulf of Genoa, which is enli- vened with buildings and shipping, in the finest style of the piaster. The Infant Saviour L.da Vinci. This exquisitely finished painting represents the Saviour Seated before a rocky back Ground, between the Trees of Life and Knowledge; the slain serpent is thrown over a * Leonardo da Vinci was descended from a noble family and born at the Castle of Vinci, near Florence in 1445, He studied under Andrea Verocchio, but his genius was so excellent, and his proficiency so rapid, that he speedily surpassed his master. He was particularly happy in marking the passions of the human mind, and to strengthen his powers in this point, he is said to have attended the processions of criminals carried to execution. He finished his pictures very slowly, but when finished, they were exquisite, and he is said to have been four years painting one portrait. Late in life he retired to France and expired in the arms of #ie king, Francis I. 44 rutter's description branch of one of them, and under the foot of the infanjt if the apple. The Virgin supporting an Infant on a table covered with oil cloth. , . A. Durerf. The Child is attempting to run and the word " Veni" ii inscribed in letters of gold before his extended hand, with a beautiful miniature landscape back ground. North Side. — The adoration of the Magi, in a Romantic Landscape. . . . . . Bembi, An elegant and finely coloured specimen portrait 0f the Doge Jjor^edanp. G. Bellini* The truth with which this distinguished personage is re* presented, the warmth of tone, and the agreeable effect o$ chiaro scuro, rank this Portrait among the finest of th* master. It was purchased by Lord Cawdor, from the Gru mani Palace. A grand mass in the Interior of St. George's ChapeJ at Windsor T ? West. The kings of France and Scotland, when prisoners at Windsor, are introduced into this piece. A Calm, with figures. • , . v . .......... . . Vernet. This piece is from the Praslin collection and is painted in his fine Italian time and manner. ]£ast Side. — The Virgin presenting the Infant to Elizabeth ............ Gafofalo. Sibilla Libica. ......... r , .... a . Lud. Caracci** * This memorable artist (Albert Durer) was born at Nuremberg in 1417, and is considered one of the greatest ornaments of the Flemish school. His imagination was lively, his composition grand, his execu^ tion happy, and his pencil delicate. * Ludovico Caracci was born at Bologna, in 1555. He studied thj£ works of many eminent masters, but especially Carre^io, w^one man* <5f fonthill abbey. This picture was formeily of high celebrity at Ferrara, and was subsequently in the Landsdown collection. The Sibil is seated before a tablet, and surrounded by a groupe of boys who are busily employed in collecting and record- ing her predictions. The figure of the female is in broad and simple style ; those of the boys, who are in action^ display the finest anatomical design. Portrait of the young St. Louis Gonzaga, as a Standard bearer in Armour Bronzino. Landscape. . ♦ * Gasper Poussin. This grand Landscape is composed of fine mountainous Scenery, and at the foot of it a woody glade, where figures are reposing ; a conflagration of some buildings on the half- ascent of the hills, is represented with great spirit, and gives a lively interest to the scene. Exterior of a Public House, and a party regaling. Also Skittle Players, in a Court-Yard of a Farm House, a pair * < Tenters. Christ in the Garden.... A. Montagna. His Disciples sleeping in the Front Ground: in the half distance, in a sultry Landscape, are armed Figures and Captives, with allusion to the Persecution of the early Christian Converts: in the Sky, is an Angel with a Cup — a very surprising and valuable early specimen. The Poulterer's Shop Gerard Douzo*. tier he endeavoured to imitate. His pieces are remarkable for gracc^ grandeur, and sweetness; simplicity and elegance distinguished all hi« designs; his touch was lively, and his expression good; his figures are' marked with a fine outline, and his composition is often sublime. In conjunction with Agostino and Annibal, he founded the wellknowm Academy of the Carracis. * This admirable artist ( Gerard JDouw) was born at Leyden, in 1618, end was a disciple of Rembrandt, His pictures are usually of a small 46 butter's description This exquisite chef d'oeuvre is one of this master's most* elaborate performances. At the opening of an arched win- dow is seen a girl bargaining with an old woman for a hare, •which the latter holds up in her left hand. Upon the ciil of the window are poultry and a blanket, which are re- flected as in a mirror on the highly polished surface of a metal pail ; a cock in a basket is feeding below; a peasant appears near a door in the distance, bargaining with a wo- man for a fowl: the interior is illumined in a tender, warm tone. A Sculptured Vase of Flowers, placed on a marble table in a Garden Scene Von Iluysum. This piece is in the Artist's finest time and manner. The Woman taken in Adultery. Mazzolino di Ferrara. The countenances of the principal groupe of figures are marked with strong expression. Another groupe is finely disposed in a gallery above. The architecture is richly or- namented. Left hand of the window is a Rocky Landscape, with St. Jerome, kneeling in prayer before a Crucifix. Henry de Blots y called Crcelta. TheCivetta, or small Italian owl, is introduced, as was generally the case in the works of this rare master, who was therefore called Civetta. This beautiful specimen was ob- tained by the late Mr. Strange, at Venice, in 1770, from the collection of the Nuncio di Verona. size, with figures so exquisitely touched, so transparent, so wonderfully delicate, as to excite astonishment as well as pleasure. *He designed every object after nature, and with an exactness so singular, that each object appears as perfect as nature itself, in respect to colour, freshness and force. His pictures fetch almost incredible sums. OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 47 A small portrait of the Duke of Alencon, Zucchero* This delicately finished painting was formerly in the Col- lection of Charles I. whose initials are upon the back of the picture. To the right hand of the window is the Virgin hold- ing the Infant in her lap Cimmi di Conegliaho. In the distance, is a Landscape with a view of part of a fortified town, with a clear and brilliant sky. This beau- tiful specimen from one of the rarest masters of the early Venetian school, formerly belonged to Mr. Strange, and was originally in the collection of the Nuncio di Verona. From the new room the Visitor proceeds to a lobby containing a beautiful ebony and tortoiseshell cabi- net and stand, the drawers enclosed by folding doors, with figures and ornaments finely executed in silver; and a fine miniature painting in water colours, representing the coronation of Henry IV. with numerous portraits of distinguished contempo- rary characters, by PML de Champagne. From thence through a passage to the china closet, containing a vast quantity of oriental and other spe- cimens, displayed in twelve oak recesses, amongst which may be enumerated, A set of delicate and fine egg-shell plates, flowered, and with rich borders. Eight extremely rare embossed japan dishes, with scalloped borders. Two very rare japan cups, mounted as milk buckets* with silver rims r gilt and chased. 44 rutter's description A singularly beautiful round cup and cover of oriental calcedony undulated, mounted in silver- gilt, delicately engraved in the Persian style, the stem enriched with oriental rubies set in gold* Two French cabinet cups and saucers, gold* ground, antique borders, painted with flowers by Van Spandonck) in a style of peculiar excellence. A japan ewer and japan jelly pot, mounted in silver, engraved and gilt. A set of royal Dresden cups and saucers, slop basin and cream ewer, mounted in silver-gilt, painted in a masterly manner, with land* scapes and sea views. Twelve handled cups and saucers, sugar and slop vases of French porcelain, salmon-coloured ground, pencilled in gold, in Greek borders of the most ela- borate and delicate design, all different, executed with a precision and truth, perhaps not to be equalled ; a chef-d" cemre of its kind. From the china room, a circular flight of stairs leads to the Dutchess's room, so called because a portrait of the Dutchess of Ham- ilton and her sister, when children, hangs over the mantle piece. The state bed is very rich and handsome, being hung ^ith crimson silk damask. OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 49 The continuation of the stairs leads to the Lancaster apartments. THE TRIBUNE ROOM, in the small north-western octagon, is ornamented with several paintings, from which the following are selected ; ■ i • n The Building of the Tower of Babel, with a mul- titude of small figures Walchenberg. Interior of a Cathedral, with figures. Steenwyck*. The Virgin and dead Christ West. St. Anthony of Padua West. St. Michael and the fallen Angel, a grand design. West. The Virgin, Infant Child, and St. John. P. Perugino. This painting is very fine ; in the back ground is a correct view of the lake Perugia. The entombment of a Cardinal, with many por- traits Van Eyck. This elaborate and curious specimen is from the collec- tion of the Earl of Besborough, at Roehampton. The Infant Christ, as the good Shepherd, sleeping. Murillo\ * Henry Steenwyck was born at Steenwyck in 1550. He surpassed all his contemporaries in the truth, neatness, transparence and delicacy of his pictures. His subjects were the insides of superb churches and convents of Gothic architecture. He was a thorough master of the true principles of the chiaro-scuro, and distributed his lights and shadows with such judgment, as to produce the most astonishing effect. + Murillo was born near Seville, in 1613. His colouring is mellow,, E 50 R UTTER* S DESCRIPTION This piece is painted with richness of colour and produces a very beautiful effect. Angels are represented iu the back ground guarding the flock. In this apartment stands a matchless set of five octagon jars and beakers; and in the window an alabaster handled vase, taken from the ruins of Hereulaneum, Over the door and windows, are eight paintings of the fathers of the church, by Hamilton ; three of them are so placed as to be visible from the great octagon, and which were the original design for those of stained glass, in St. Michael's gallery, THE LANCASTER GALLERY is forty- four feet long, having a vaulted roof, with a row of four windows on the western side, and re* cesses to correspond on the eastern side, fitted up with specimens of china, some extrepiely brilliant ; especially, A set of Raphael ware plates, with historical paintings. Two precious enamelled bowl dishes, with silver handles. A set of very fine French plates, painted in flowers. A service of shaped old and produces a surprising effect, by the clearness of his tints, skilfully opposed by proper shadows ; his carnations are excellent, and there is u striking character of truth and nature in all his paintings. His pictures are justly esteemed throughout Europe, and fetch very large prices. OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 51 japan fruit dishes, of blue piony pattern. Several .other services of ancient and curious china. Several valuable paintings and enamels adorn this gallery. Two fine illuminated missal drawings. A very curious and valuable enamel, in three com- partments, representing saints of the Greek church. Among the paintings are, the Triumph of Neptune. D. J. F. prancken. This fine painting is composed of many figures, very ele- gantly drawn, and is from the collection of the Elector of Hesse Cassel. The Court Yard of a Palace, by Steenwyek / with figures representing the Interview between Dido and iEneas, by Pourbus. THE LANCASTER, OR STATE BED ROOM. This handsome room is furnished in a most elegant ;style ; the bed is of crimson silk damask^ with very rich fringing*. " The veiling is in the purest style of the sixteenth century ; ^ound the cornice is a richly carved and painted frieze, composed of portcullisses ajid the united roses of York and Lancaster." * This bed was brought from Jamaica, and belonged to Mr. Bpck* jforji's great grandfather. RUTTER'S DESCRIPTION Over the fire place, is a whole length portrait &f the Regent Murray, m Highland costume. Jamieson. This is a well finished and highly interesting historical portrait. Christ in the Garden A. Mantegna** This valuable and surprising early specimen is remarkably fine. The disciples are represented sleeping, in the front ground : in the half distance, in a sultry landscape, are armed figures and captives, with allusion to the persecution of early christian converts. : A Landscape Breughel and Van Balten. This elaborate and beautiful picture represents a garden scene, with the Virgin, Child^ and Infants presenting flowers. A Crucifixion. . Andrea Orgagna. This piece is painted upon a gold ground, and is a rare and early specimen of Italian art ? from the Campo Santo di Pisa. Cardinal Wolsey . . Hat/ter. Temptation of St. Anthony. ...... Franks. Representation, of a Fete. ......... Old Breughel. Swiss Cottage, with figures,, . ^ AberlL A View of Ostend, with boats putting off. Peters. Two of the Elements ; a pair. . Breughel. * Andrea Mantegna was born near Mantua in 1451, of mean parent tage, but his genius and uncommon talents raised him to a high degree of reputation and honour. When he was only seventeen, he painted the _grand Altar-piece of St. Sophia at Padua ; which gained him great commendation, as it had not the least appearance of juvenile compe- tition. His fore-shortening was particularly excellent and his perspec- Are true and ornamental. OP FONTHIIX ABBEY. 53 This pair of highly finished pictures are from the EscuriaL The frame is ebony with or-moulu mouldings. Each side the door stands a French cabinet sup- porting a pair of J apan J ars and Covers, richly ena- melled with flowers and borders. A fine coffer of raised mosaic, on a frame *)f ebony and or-moulu. A superb ebony coffer, with or-moulu mouldings, the pannels filled with the finest Florentine Mosaics 5 representing flowers and arabesques. On the right hand side of the fire place, also stands a superb ebony Persian cabinet, elaborately carv- ed in three compartments, the centre enclosed by folding doors, surmounted by an ebony and or-moulu shade, ornamented with twisted columns of rock crystal, with or-moulu caps and a serre-papier of red marble, with lion and other ornaments in or- moulu. To the left of the fire place is placed a curiously inlaid cabinet of oriental wood, having nine drawers of ebony and ivory, on a table to correspond, with ebony legs, and carved mouldings chased, the mountings very richly gilt, supporting an elaborately /carved Persian box, richly -studded with gilt* orna- ments. The next apartment visited is Edward's the third's gallery. Ii4 rotter's description This Gallery is so called from a whole length portrait 6f that monarch, placed ove^ the mantle piece, copied by Matthew Wyatt^ from one in the vestry of St; George's chapel, Windsor; This superb apartment is lighted by set en lofty Windows, in the west side, hung with curtains of pur- ple and scarlet. In the centre of the? opposite side is a beautiful arched alabaster fire-place, supported by columns tvith vine leaf capitals. Above is the portrait of Edward III. already described, and on either side are portraits of John of Montford duke of Britanny, the constable Montmorency, Henry VII. Edward IV; tind Alphonso king 6f Naples j and in the top com- partments of the windows opposite are brilliantly painted the arms of the personages represented. The oak roof is much admired^ and the frieze of this apartment is beautifully sculptured and hung with the atchietements of seventy-two knights of tlui Order of the Garter, and other characters well known in history. The east side is fitted lip with sii recesses, filled with a miscellaneous collection of valuable books su^ perbly bound; between the recesses are six richly carved oak cabinets, surmounted by various specie mens of oriental vases, many of them of matchless OF FONTHILL ABBEV. quality, delicately embossed and tastefully mounted in or-moulU) &c. &c. Also, an extremely curious Chinese sceptre, formed of Chinese wood worked in a kind of rock-work, in an upper recess of which is their superior deity Tonfongsok, and the eight Tchin, with their symbols on different stages below. Between the windows on the west side are twelve ebony fluted stands, supporting silver gilt candlesticks richly chased ; between w hich are six oak stands sup- porting oriental china jars. Down the centre of the apartment, are a variety of (stands, cabinets, and other valuables and curiosities, especially A magnificent table of pietre commesse, the cen- tre being an oval specimen of mammillated oriental onyx, surrounded by parterres of rare and beautiful jaspers and breccia, with a broad border of bold ara- besque, of various costly and uncommon marbles, and edged with variegated marble. It is mounted on a superbly carved frame of oak, about nine feet long, and four feet six inches wide. This grand piece of furniture was formerly in the Borghese palace. On this, stand two beautiful vases of carved ivory, with a frieze of infants carved by the cele- brated Flamingo^ and superbly mounted with silver gilt. It formerly belonged to the famous Earl of 56 rutter's description Arundell, and was left by Lady B. Germaine to the Jate Margravine of Anspach, at whose sale it was purchased. Also a magnificent plinth of carved ivory, by Flamingo, with top and base of or-moulu. A very beautiful ebony table, supported upon twisted legs, with finely chased and gilt mouldings of or^moulu, surmounted by a fine slab of Verde antique. This table is surmounted by an oval cup of orien* tal sardonyx, with crystallizations, mounted on double stems of double goat's feet and foliage, on a solid pedestal of or-moulu, and an ivory jewel ca- binet, elaborately carved in foliage, with folding doors and inside drawers, mounted with rich chasings, silver binges and gilt lock plate, A superb Italian mosaic table, composed of vari- ous specimens of marble, supported by four solid fluted ebony columns standing on a plinth of solid Sienna, on which is placed a small Persian Cabinet of solid ebony, elaborately carved, the centre inclosed by fold- ing doors, the hinges and lock-plates finely engraved and gilt, surmounted by a magnificent cup, cover and stem of ivory, sculptured by the celebrated artist Magnus Berg, medallist to the Emperor of Germany. The bowl is finely carved with a forest scene, and figures hunting wild animals. On the lid are Diana and her Nymphs asleep amidst animals after the fa* fjgucs of the chase^ and a figure of Diana surmounts OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 57 the lid. A finely embellished and sculptured figure of Hercules forms the stem. The cup is lined with silver-gilt, and the socle is formed of silver-gilt, and richly chased. A small Persian cabinet of solid ebony, elabo* rately carved, the centre inclosed by folding doors, the hinges and lock-plates finely engraved and gilt. On a carved and gilt toilette table, with a lea- ther cover, stands a very large nautilus shell, fine- ly engraved in the first style by Hillican; the subject the triumph of Neptune and Aiaphitrite, mounted in the most elegant manner in silver-gilt embossed, with minutely engraved sheik, and decorated by finely mounted and chased ornaments, of masks, cupids, and figures, and shell handle ; the arms and helmet beau- tifully pierced and engraven in gold ; one of the most noble and picturesque objects of this valuable collec- tion :— -A magnificent gold japan basin and cover, spotted with solid gold pins, with landscapes and waved surface ; the inside is ornamented with water plants upon avanturine. This beautiful article is of the greatest rarity, and was one of the most esteemed in the collection of the Due de Bouillon: — Also a cup in the shape of a shell, of rock crystal, deli- cately ornamented with intaglio arabesque loliage, with handles, massively mounted in enamelled gold : *— A beautiful cup of yellow Agate inclining tp butter's description Jasper, very delicately sculptured; mounted in gold> enamelled white and green. A superb coffer of raised japan, one of the largest specimens known of this superior quality; the lid without and within, as also the front and sides, ara covered with representations of buildings and land- scapes of the finest raised and spangled japan, and with animals of gold and silver. This unique speci* men of Japanese art was formerly the property of Cardinal Mazarine, and belonged subsequently to the Due de Bouillon* tHE SANCTUARY, is a continuation of king Edward's gallery, u wain- scotted with oak and ribbed with deep mouldings, partly gilt and partly coloured ;" the sculptured frieze is hung with thirty-six atchievements.— A glim* Inering light is received through "six perforated bronze doors, modelled after those in Henry VII. chapel in Westminster abbey. These doors are hung with crimson curtains, which increase the solemn gloom and effect of the ORATORY, formed of five sides of an octagon." The ceiling is grained and gilt with rich and elaborate fan work at the extremities of the angles, supported by columns* From the centre of this ceiling an elegantly chased golden lamp is suspended. Light is admitted by a OP tfONTHILL ABBEY. 59 fiarrow pointed window on each side, with compart- ments of very delicately painted glass. Each side is ornamented by a large and magnificent hobe chest, formed of highly-scented wood, exter- nally carved with the rose and thistle, double gilt, and coloured in imitation of gems, with massive-* Wrought handles, hinges, and key, w ater-gilt, of the? times of James I. The place of the altar, (which was surmounted by an alabaster statue of St. Anthony by Jlossi,) is for the present supplied by a singularly beautiful cabi* net of architectural design, inlaid with various preci- ous materials in the finest taste and of exquisite work- manship* Returning frtim this grand termination of the northern division of the Gallery, and passing again through the octagon, the visitor enters by the southern iirch st. Michael's galler*. This apartment is fitted up in a unique and superla- tive style. The light is admitted by ah oriel at the southern extremity ; by two gothic ivifldows on the Eastern, and five on the western side* The upper compartments of the lattice are of painted glass, repre- senting various family arms* The upper part of the soiith window is of stained 60 butter's description glass, representing St. Jerome, St. Augustine, St* Ambrose, and St. Athanasius. The eastern windows are ornamented with stained glass, by Eggington, representing St. Columba, St. Etheldreda, Venerable Bede, and Roger Bacon, " Under each of the eastern pointed windows is a superb gothic fire-place of marble, with traeing in the spaxidrils of the arches. The ceiling is remarkably fine, composed of Ihe richest fan work, with Angels for the corbels, bearing emblazoned shields. The curtains are of scarlet and blue, which give a rich effect. The carpet, woven for the express purpose, is of crimson, strewed with the Hamilton cinquefoils, which Mr. Beckford quarters in right of his. mother, who was an heiress of that illustrious house." This gallery, with king Edward's, forai the principal library ; the former is fitted up with twelve recesses containing an immense number of splendidly bound books, amongst which may be enumerated sixty mis- sals of the most brilliant execution. Between these recesses are ebony stands, -surmount* .ed by curiously wrought cabinets, some filled with various rare miniature editions of classical authors, others, with valuable specimens of oriental china. Each cabinet supports a pair of beautiful silver-gilt candlesticks, several of them executed by Vulliamy^ OF FONTtfILL ABBEY. 61 after designs by Holbein, and on one of them is a BOTTLE of PALE SEA GREEN ORIENTAL CHINA, of great antiquity, incrusted with flowers in relief, in compartments, with silver-gilt spout and handle in the Gothic taste. The cover is embellished with painting's in enamel, and the arms of Jeanne d'Arragon queen of Sicily, the friend of Petrarch. The handle, rim, and foot, bear the legend of the house of Anjou, in Gothic characters upon blue enamel. This vase, be- sides the value it derives from the historic circum- stances connected with it, is further curious as being the earliest known specimen of porcelain introduced from China to Europe. Over one of the chimney pieces, stands a greek shrine of metal for containing relics. On one side of it, in compartments, is a Crucifix with various figures of Saints, the heads of metal, gilt and embossed, the draperies of coloured enamel. This extremely curious article was brought by St. Louis from Pales- tine, and had been deposited at St. Denys, whence it was taken during the French revolution ; it is mount- ed on two steps of black marble. In front of the southern window, stands a very eurious figure of the Japanese idol amida stand- ing on the water, and supported on a base of rock- work, with marine plants and reptiles. The figure is? of the most exquisite Japan lacq uer, on wood of an 62 RUTTEIi ? S description olive colour, the drapery bordered with arabesques^ wery freely and delicately pencilled in gold. From the southern extremity of this gallery, the oratory is seen faintly glimmering at the further ex- tremity, through a long line of groined roof, extending three hundred and twenty-one feet. A pair of lofty folding glass doors admit into the two YELLOW ROOMS j hung with rich silk damagk of that colour. These rooms have three windows, which form the northern extremity of the western oriel, with five other larger ones looking towards the south. The roof is very beautiful, being ornamented by circles filled witli r qua£refoil. These rooms contain thirteen oak book-cases, filled with richly bound volumes. On one of the marble mantle pieces stands a noble .groupe of nessus and de jan ira, in bronze, exe? cuted by Giovanni di Bologna, whose name is in» scribed on the fillet upon the head of the pentaur. In one of these rooms stands a cabinet of the greatest curiosity, composed of Pear-tree and ojther woods, from the Palace at Whitehall, and execute^ from designs of Holbdn^ for king Henry the YIIJL OF FONTHILL ABBEY. 63 The four fronts present each an architectural facade, with two folding doors, on the paimels of which is sculptured a battle, with figures in high relief, and marked with the greatest spirit. The doors $yithiu are inlaid with designs in the taste of that time, The drawers are separated by beautifully carved terminal figures, and the fronts of the drawers with historical subjects, in bas-relief, with moral inscriptions in latin verse. The whole is supported on a sculptured ar? £ade, inlaid with heraldic devices. Opposite the western window stands a triple Jewel cabinet of amber, "in which are seen all the vari- ous hues of that precious material ; in some parts the palest yellow is suddenly succeeded by the richest orange ; in others the tint increases to a garnet red, and again declines to a purity almost white. 5 ' Its transparent pannels are carved with sabred, legen- dary, and other subjects, in relief, separated by cameos of white amber ; the lower casket of the three, is ornar mented with miniature figures of Saints, of white am- ber, on brackets, the whole supported on feet shaped as bunches of grapes, of yellow amber. This rare and costly article was made for a Princess of Bavaria in 1655. To the north-west of the yellow room, in one of the smaller octagon towers, is the GREEN CABINET ROOM, haying a roof of faji work, with rich and elaborate gutter's description tracing. In this room stands a magnificent pair of jars of extraordinary size, embellished with land- scapes, buildings and figures of the most exquisite enamel. These grand and unique pieces of Porcelain were formerly the property of a distinguished person- age of rank in Portugal. A pair of small pier tables with twisted legs and mosaic top, bearing an oriental Alabaster slab, beau- tifully inlaid in flowers and insects, of the fine and rare Florentine work. In a glass case are placed an ivory tankard and cover, with fine carving representing the battle of Centaurs, Satyrs, &c. in old silver, chased and gilt mounting. The mountings of the king of Candy's sword, very beautifully carved and chased in massive silver. A very curious cinque cento bronze pounce box, in the shape of a frog, and a cupid upon a dolphin. A lock and key, a very curious piece of mechanism, with a medal of Louis XIV. in steel on the scutcheon. An engraved ivory coffer, mounted with metal- gilt, lined with purple velvet. A very curious Chinese woodpecker, formed of the root of a tree. This room also contains a very valuable amber cabinet, placed on a Persian solid ebony table, with legs carved in scroll ornaments. A pair of battles carved in ivory, A small mini- ' OF FOKTHILL ABDEY. 65 ture painting after Titian by StaUa. A basso-re- lievo, representing a battle, by Le Brun, in or- mouluy and a circular Bacchanalian bronze. From the green cabinet room, the visitor is shewn to the BROWN PARLOUR. This room is wainscotted with dark coloured oak, having two large pieces of tapestry adorning the northern side, representing an offering to Apollo and a feast of Diana. The room is hung with blue silk damask furniture. " It is lighted by eight painted windows, three of which compose the lower story of the -western oriel ; the other live range within the southern cloister; the lower compartments, like most of the other windows in this magnificent abode, are composed of four squares of the very best plate glass, each square measuring forty inches by twenty-two, and commanding the prospect over a deep wooded vale, intersected by the lake and by pleasant lawns ; beyond which rises the forest that encloses Wardour Castle. The upper tracery of the windows is enriched with painted glass by Eggington, after the drawings of the late eminent artist R. Hamilton, representing a series of historical personages.'^ A Vhole length portrait of William Beckford's great grandfather, Peter Beckford, is placed over the F 66 rdtter's description mantle piece on the north side. cc He was lieutenant governor and commander in chief of Jamaica, and was honoured with the presidency of the council and other civil as well as military employments of that Island, where he greatly distinguished himself at the French invasion of 1693. His son, likewise named Peter, was esteemed the richest subject in Europe. He married Bethshua, daughter and co-heir of Ju- lines Herring, Esq. and was the father of William Beckford, Esq. the late celebrated Senator*.' 1 Near the window stand a pair of magnificent chma cisterns, twenty-four inches in diameter and eighteen inches high; mazarine blue and gold ground, with red mosaic border, enamelled with flowers in com- partments, and with plants and fish inside. At the lower part of the room are three extremely handsome black and gold japan screens, one more than eight feet high. On the tables in the centre, is a vast collection of oriental china, some very magnificently enamelled. Passing through a small DRAWING ROOM, with an elegantly groined ceiling and an appropriate * See page 9 for Biographical Sketch of hira* OF FOOTHILL ABBElf. 67 Purbeck marble chimney piece, the Visitor enters the CLOISTERS, and thence proceeding through the hall to a flight of stairs leading to a suite of apartments surrounding the Great Octagon, enters the rooms called the NUNNERIES j consisting of four apartments, furnished in the baro- nial style, and communicating with the octagon by large gothic arches, protected by stone screen work. These rooms contain several excellent paintings, especially two very grand and spirited, on subjects from the Revelation by , West Two highly finished portraits, by Hayter. The Virgin and Child . Bonifacio Be?nbi P This capital painting is of gallery size; the figures of St. Catherine, St. John, St, Jerome, and St. Mary Magdalen ar.e designed in fine taste and richly coloured. Ascending by a circular flight of steps, the visitor reaches the summit of THE TOWER, rearing its lofty head to the height of two hundred and seventy-six feet. u The view from this command- ing eminence is of vast extent, including many coun- ties in its circumference; among the most conspicuous objects discernible without the aid of a glass is Lord Arundell's terrace, adjoining Wardour Castle; this is a fine range of Wood, above which rise the bold 5 green eminences communicating with Salisbury plaijQ. OS rutter's description Westward appear the grounds at Sfourhead, a dis- tant prospect into Dorsetshire and Somersetshire, as far as Glastonbury ; and the road to Shaftesbury winding- between two hills. Among other picturesque objects is a line of buildings called Castle-town, on account of the construction of the houses, which have at intervals a raised work like a tower. The houses were built by Mr. Beckford for the convenience of the villagers whom he employs; they are situated without the grounds, at a short distance from the enclosure. Farther north are seen Bradley-knoll and Bidcomb- hill. It would be almost endless to enumerate the interesting objects that are visible from this elevation : some conception, however, may be formed, wben it is known that the tower has its base upon an eminence considerably above the level of the top of Salisbury spire ; and there is no hill in the immediate neighbour- hood of sufficient consequence to bound the eommand- ing height of the summit/' SECTION IV. BRIEF NOTICE OF THE OUTER GROUNDS, AND OF THE FORMER MANSION. THE entrance to the former Park is near the Inn at Fonthill Gilford, and on proceeding a few hundred yards, the delightful Lake, and its surrounding beau^ ties gradually open to our view. The remaining wing of the FORMER MANSION occasions some feelings of regret, that such an elegant structure should have been removed, notwithstanding the superior salubrity in the situation of the present Abbey, and of the opportunity which that situation afforded for the display of architectural talent and rural improvement. Of We edifice which adorned this spot, previous to the year 1755 ; we have but little account; but it evi* 70 rutter's description dently was of considerable magnitude and must have contained numerous articles of great value ; as the loss occasioned by the destructive fire which con- sumed it in that year, is estimated at the sum of thirty thousand pounds. The firmness and sang- froid of the late possessor, Alderman Beckford, were strikingly evinced in his behaviour on receiving an account of the calamity; coolly replying, "Well, let it be rebuilt.'* In the same year, the late edifice was accordingly begun in a superior style of grandeur, and was built with a fine granular free-stone, plentifully furnished from some of the quarries which abound in that district. When completed, it contained various suites of spacious apartments, richly furnished, and by the mode of its construction was protected against the re*- currence of conflagration. It consisted of a magnifi- cent centre, with two square wings, connected by light elliptical colonnades, supported in the front by Doric pillars, with a characteristic frieze above the architrave. The basement story contained an arched Egyptian hall, a spacious anti-room, a library, with a very superb collection of books, a Turkish room, splendidly furnished in a style accordant with its name^ and two other apartments. The second floor con- sisted of a suite of spacious rooms, richly furnished, and containing a valuable collection of paintings, both of the Foreign and English schools. In the year 1807, the costly furniture and ornaments, together with th® rich materials of this noble mansion, were disposed 9f OF FONTHILL ABBEY. by public sale, in order to make way for the more splendid exhibition of the new Abbey and its accom- paniments. The most remarkable feature in the vicinity of the late mansion, is the lake, of large dimensions, covered with innumerable fcwl of various kinds % among which are swans, Cape geese, and other foreign birds. Its bold and irregular banks are crowned with luxu- riant foliage, and the whole forms a landscape of un- common brilliancy. THE ALPINE GARDEN, tc extending several furlongs on the eastern margin of the lake, and rising in many bold inequalities and lofty projections, to a great height above the level of the water," though now retaining only a small por- tion of its former beauties, still presents abundant charms to the spectator, and will enable him to form some idea 6f its scenery whilst the former mansion existed, to which it was a most pleasing appendage. Access to it may be obtained by means of a boat on the lake, the landing from which is at the bottom of a green walk, nearly opposite to the remains of the hermitage, by which the visitor ascends to the spot which gave name to this romantic district ; — a fine OPEN LAWN, which formerly contained a choice collection of Alpine roses, and various other plants of similar origin. H% RUTTEU's DESCRIPTION i The Geologist will find a good opportunity of ex- amining the strata of this district, by visiting a large re-opened QUARRY of free stone, from whence the materials of the old mansion were taken, situated about a hundred yards to the north east of this lawn. The surface soil is about two feet deep; to which a coarse free stone of a yellowish tint succeeds, intersected by several layers of flints, from a few inches to a foot deep. Beneath all these is the solid rock, being of a fine close tex- ture, and a beautiful white colour, suitable for the finest ornamental work or building. Returning to the ROSE LAWN, a large excavation in the rock is next come to, where formerly the tables of entertainment were spread. The bcld projections of the rock, overhung by Hy* pericum Androscemum, with timber trees towering above, and an insulated mass rearing its head many yards perpendicular, add much to the romantic beau- ties of this sequestered spot. The excavation is divided into two compartments, and extends a considerable depth into the rock ; a rude flight of steps leads to a second excavation^ where a luxuriant vine widely spreads over its broad entrance. OF FONTHILL ABBEY. W From this, a still ruder flight of steps conducts to the summit, where once stood a rotunda of rustic form ; from which place an extensive prospect of the surrounding country is obtained, and a nearer view ©f the village, and lake. Descending from this commanding spot, the visitor proceeds to the fairies' lawn, surrounded by blooming trees and shrubs of vari- ous descriptions, not forgetting to remark amongst them the luxuriant Acacia and the double blossomed cherry. From the centre of this lawn a glance is obtained at the water below and a distant view of the Abbey tower, surmounting the deepening shade of firs and beeches; and on descending, the expanse of water opens delightfully to the sight and the more distant abbey and village appear to still greater advantage* We now enter the region of the Grotto. In the first division the petrifying spring drizzles from the rock and forms a small enclosed basin, which is over- hung with the spreading branches of a luxuriant oak: the COLD BATH, is hid amongst „ the rocks below, wh^ch form a dome around and over it. Below this we enter the u KUTTER's DESCRIPTION GROTTO, formed externally with huge masses of rock, inteiy spersed with stalactites and petrifactions. The inter? nal part is lined with pebbles, and forms a rustic seat ; the lake appears to great advantage, intruding its margin nearly to the feet of the spectator, beneath a rugged archway with bold stalactites hanging rude- ly from its roof. On quitting this retired and soothing spot, a GREEN WALK pr terrace, lined with rose trees, surmounted by high overhanging beech on the left hand and the water nearly close to the right, leads to the head of the lake ; from wtych 9 Plf^ advantageous view is obtained, combining fog sfilj remaining wing of the jnansion and nearly the whole of thi^ extensive sheet of water, with the fine grown woodp skirting it to the right and left ; from whence a foot path leads agaiii the Inn at Fonthill Gilford. THE EifD, looted by J. RUTTER, j^aftesbpry. PREPARING FOR PUBLICATION, AN.. HISTORICAL AND DESCRIPTIVE ACCOUNT OF . . i - f otttpi SUfifiep; THE SEAT OF WILLIAM BECKFORDj ESQ. WITH GENEALOGICAL MEMORANDA RELATING TO HIS ANCESTORS I ALSO I TOPOGRAPHICAL NOTICES OF FO NTH ILL GIFFORD, AND FONTHILL BISHOP* ILLUSTRATED BY A SERIES OF ENGRAVINGS OF THE ABBEY AND ITS SCENERY* By J. BRIXTON, F.S.A. Connected with, and attached to Wiltshire as I have > been for the last thirty years, and having devoted much attention and labour to illustrate its Topography and An- tiquities, I could not be an indifferent epectatoi to the fame of Fonthill Abbey at the present crisis. As u all the world" according to common parlance, either visits, or talks about this famed building, and its splendid contents, I am induced to fancy that some of that world will na- turally wish to ascertain the true History of the place, a*:d see accurate Views of the interior and exterior of the edifice. To prepare such a work, I readily obtained not only the consent of the learned possessor of the mansion, but had his permission to remain as long as might be expedient in the house, with the same indulgence for the Artists I employed. He also gave me easy access to every place and 2 object that would be likely to afford information, or assis- tance. With these advantages I am not a little solicitous to produce a Volume in some degree adequate to the sub- ject; and not an unworthy companion to the Cathedral and Architectural Antiquities of England. It is therefore my intention to publish, in the course of the ensuing winter, "an Historical and Descriptive account of Fonthill Abbey J"* and its connecting Villages, with Bio- graphical and Genealogical Memoranda of the Beckford family, &c. illustrated by eight or ten views of the interior and exterior of the Abbey, from Drawings by G. Cattermole. The work will be published in medium and imperial quartos, the first of which will be about 1 Guinea, and the second, with proofs of the plates, Of the latter, only a small number of copies will be printed : there will be 20 Sets with Proofs and Etchings of the plates, at 3 Guineas each. London: Published by the Author, Burton Cottage, Burton Street;— also, Longman, and Co. Paternoster Row ; — Taylor, High Holborn ; — Sold by Brodie and Dowding, Salisbury; — Barratt, — Godwin, — Mey- ler,— Upham, &c. Bath;— Norton,—- Barry, &c. Bristol;— Rutter, Shaftesbury ; — and other Booksellers. Gentlemen disposed to honor the Author with their names, as subscribers, are solicited to signify the same, ( specifying the copy they wish to have ) through the medium of either of the Booksellers above named, or to the Author. A LIST OF SUBSCRIBERS WILL BE PRINTED. Rutter, Printer, Shaitesbury. • PICTURES AND MINIATURES AT FONTHILL ABBEY. CATALOGUE OF This Well-selected and Valuable Collection of GALLERY AND CABINET BY gnctent anH iWoUern Rasters ; Among which are G. DOW W. VANDEVELDE VAN HUYSUM MIERIS E. VANDERNEER RUYSDAEL METZU KARLE DU JARDIN HOBBIMA SCALKEN BERGHEM VANDERI1EYDEN TENIERS LE NAIN POELEMBOURG S. ROSA L. DA VINCI RUBENS REMBRANDT ALBANO P. VERONESE L. CARRACCI G. POUSSIN GAROFALO BELLINI BEMBI MANTEGNA WEST HAMILTON PETTTTOT WILSON STOTHARD COOPER, &C. fflbitf) tortl be £>ol0 bp aurtton, BY Mr. PHILLIPS* AT THE ABBEY, On FRIDAY, the 10th of OCTOBER, And following Day, And on TUESDAY & WEDNESDAY, October 14 and 15, 1823, AT HALF-PAST TWELVE O'CLOCK PRECISELY. Tickets for Viewing, (at One Guinea each, to admit Two Persons on any two Days except Sun- days—Also, Tickets with Catalogues, to admit Three Persons every Day except Sundays, during the View and Sale, at Five Guineas each, may he had at THE ABBEY GATES ; Ike Lamb Inn, Hindon ; Messrs. Brodie and Daw ding, and Mr. Earle's Libraries, Salisbury; Mr. Skelton's Library, Southampton , ; White Lion and York Hotels, Bath ; Mr. Frost's Library, Bristol; Mr# Thomas's Library, Weymouth ; Mr. Ru tier's Library, Shaftsbury ; Bath Arms, Warminster ; the Black Horse, Antelope, White H<«rt, and Lamb Inns, Salisbury ; the Gny.cMe