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Lichfield Cathedral OP08956
Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Chad, Lichfield, Staffordshire, c 1860. Francis Bedford (1816-'94), albumen print. Francis Bedfords photograph, published by Thompson & Co, shows the west front of Lichfield Cathedral. General views of cathedrals and photographs of their architectural details had been popular subjects for pioneer photographers, and they continued to attract attention as the mass market in photography developed. Lichfield Cathedral, one of the smallest in England, had been severely damaged during the Civil War. Significant restoration had been undertaken in the 17th and 18th centuries, and Bedfords view was taken before the west window (between the towers) was remodelled in the late 1860s during Sir George Gilbert Scotts restoration of 1856-'78. Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places. © Historic England
Media ID 10929053
Filename: OP08956.jpg
Size: 3757 x 4652 (15.9MB)
Date: 18th June 2015
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England
Source: Historic England Archive
Archive Cathedral Medieval Picturing England Religion Spire Victorian
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This print showcases the magnificent Lichfield Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St Chad, located in Staffordshire, England. Taken around 1860 by renowned photographer Francis Bedford, this albumen print captures the grandeur of the cathedral's west front. During this era, photographs depicting cathedrals and their architectural details were highly sought after by photography enthusiasts. As photography became more accessible to the masses, these images continued to captivate audiences with their intricate beauty. Lichfield Cathedral itself holds a rich history. Despite being one of England's smallest cathedrals, it suffered severe damage during the Civil War. However, extensive restoration work was carried out in subsequent centuries to preserve its splendor. Bedford's photograph provides a glimpse into Lichfield Cathedral before further renovations took place in the late 1860s under Sir George Gilbert Scott's guidance. Notably absent from this image is the remodeled west window that would later grace its towers. With its medieval charm and soaring spires reaching towards heaven, Lichfield Cathedral stands as an enduring symbol of faith and Victorian-era architecture. This remarkable print serves as a testament to both Bedford's skill behind the lens and Historic England's commitment to preserving our nation's cultural heritage for future generations to appreciate and admire.
