Design for a Gothic "Belle Vue" 1795 - 1805

Curator: Before us, we have William Hurst Ashpitel’s "Design for a Gothic 'Belle Vue'," created sometime between 1795 and 1805. This watercolor and ink drawing offers a fascinating glimpse into architectural fantasies of the period. Editor: Oh, my! What strikes me first is how incredibly whimsical this is. It feels like something straight out of a fairytale— a gingerbread house architect’s fever dream! Curator: Indeed. Notice how the artist employs Gothic motifs not for their original sacred purposes, but as purely decorative elements. We see pointed arches, delicate tracery, and pinnacles applied almost like icing on a cake, as you said. The bridge connecting the pavilions adds a fascinating spatial element. Editor: That's it exactly. I mean, look at the colour palette - it’s like diluted dreams. The hazy blues and gentle browns contribute to that dreamy, nostalgic feel. It makes me want to put on a flowing gown and wander through a misty garden! There's even people inside; it feels full of life. Curator: Observe the precision of the architectural rendering though. Ashpitel’s command of perspective and detail gives the fantasy a grounding in reality. The drawing meticulously presents a possible, if improbable, structure. Note the effect of the light—very crucial formal aspect here—how the structure casts an elegant shadow. Editor: Even the very notion of 'Belle Vue,' beautiful view, feels deeply romantic, promising escapism. There is more than meets the eye, or maybe it doesn't... Look at this funny, almost crooked top... I'm just saying, even I could create this with coloured pencil. Curator: I would argue, there’s value beyond simple draughtsmanship. The very synthesis of Romantic ideals and Gothic vocabulary makes it an important document. Ashpitel uses aesthetic means to explore something more abstract, even the essence of picturesque ideal. Editor: Right, right. And despite myself, I concede! After staring at it for two minutes, maybe this isn't something I would come up with! It speaks volumes and, ultimately, remains beautiful to behold. Curator: A worthwhile meditation on architecture's ability to evoke moods and desires, don't you agree?