9. Tickencote, Rutland: the Norman Chancel Arch 1964

Editor: This is John Piper's "9. Tickencote, Rutland: the Norman Chancel Arch" from the Tate collection. It's a print, and the bright yellow background gives it such a striking feel. What can you tell me about its historical or cultural significance? Curator: Well, Piper was deeply interested in British architecture and the landscape. He made these images at a time when there was a growing interest in preserving such buildings. The church, the act of depiction, and its place in the Tate collection, all contribute to the cultural significance. How does that impact your view? Editor: That gives me some perspective. It speaks to a desire to document history. I also notice how abstract it is for something so architectural. Curator: Precisely! His work challenges viewers. How do we balance our sense of history with our modern sensibilities, I wonder? Editor: I hadn’t considered that balance. Thanks, that’s fascinating.