Arches of Triumph: The Motif of the Triumphal Arch in the Architectural Classicism of Sir Edwin Lutyens

Donna Marie O’Donovan
Trinity College Dublin
Department of History of Art and Architecture
2006
BA

Subject: Architecture
Country: England, France and India
Period: 20th Century

10,000 words

This dissertation explores the theory and practice of imitation in classical architecture, taking as its case study the architectural classicism of Sir Edwin Lutyens. The study focuses singularly on the development of the triumphal arch motif in Lutyens’ classical works with a view to understanding sophisticated imitation as a means by which the classical architect can enter into an engaged communion with past styles while continuing to invent and innovate. The author traces the origins and evolution of Lutyens’ conception of the abstracted and multi-dimensional triumphal arch, citing his work on various London city buildings, as well as his war memorials in France, England, and New Delhi. The study concludes with an examination of his unexecuted designs for Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral.

Irish Georgian Society

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Arches of Triumph: The Motif of the Triumphal Arch in the Architectural Classicism of Sir Edwin Lutyens