R. D. Chantrell (1793-1872) and the Architecture of a Lost Generation

Chantrell was one of the outstanding church architects of the early nineteenth century, yet - along with many of his generation - he has been confined to the shadows of architectural history, shadows cast so adeptly by Pugin and the Ecclesiologists. This book reconsiders his many achievements and sets them within the context of the architectural theory and practice of his time.

After training in Soane's office and designing a string of compelling Classical buildings, Chantrell reinvented himself as a pioneering Gothic specialist to meet the huge post-Waterloo demand for additional church accommodation. He became one of the most accomplished exponents in this challenging area of practice, as well as being a respected antiquary, lecturer, writer and, later, an elder statesman of the profession on several prestigious London committees. Crowning his career is Leeds Parish Church (1837-41), the biggest church since Wren's St Paul's and, nationally, the most important church of the age.

Christopher Webster is an architectural historian who has published widely on the late-Georgian and early-Victorian period. He has particular interests in that era's contribution to the Gothic Revival, the development of the architectural profession, and the early work of the Cambridge Camden Society. He was born in Leeds and, after an academic career in the Midlands, is very happy to be back in his native city. Now retired, he devotes much of his time to research, writing, travel, music and gardening.