Sir William Chambers and the Enlightenment

Kenzo Nakakoji
Trinity College Dublin
Department of History of Art and Architecture
2006
BA

Subject: Architecture
Country: Britain, Ireland and France
Period: 18th Century

10,000 words

This dissertation examines the theory and practice of the architect Sir WIlliam Chambers through the lens of the Enlightenment in England and France. The study explores the means by which Chambers managed to balance his role as a major figure in English architecture with his his highly critical, if broadly receptive, rationalist approach to architectural theory. The author charts Chambers' architectural education and development from his early commitment to a theoretical approach to architecture during a period of study under Blondel in Paris and traces the development and application of theory throughout the architect's career while locating his work in the context of the Enlightenment. Chamber's 'A Treatise on the Decorative Part of Civil Architecture', his established aesthetic philosophy, and his work at Somerset House are all considered in detail.

Irish Georgian Society

Education Theses Register

Sir William Chambers and the Enlightenment