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Rievaulx Abbey OP07620
Filename: OP07620.jpg
Size: 4775 x 3661 (13.8MB)
Date: 18th June 2015
Source: Historic England
Credit: Historic England
Copyright Status: Copyrighted Work
Source: Historic England Archive
Owner URL: http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/professional/archives-and-collections/nmr/enquiry-and-research-services/terms-and-conditions/
© Historic England
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from Historic England
Rievaulx Abbey OP07620
Rievaulx Abbey, North Yorkshire, 1850-'1910. Unknown photographer, albumen print. The ruins of Rievaulx Abbey, the first Cistercian abbey in the north of England, have been a tourist destination since the 18th century. In the Victorian era photographers were also drawn to record the picturesque, ivy-clad ruins. By 1917 these were in danger of collapse and Rievaulx Abbey was taken into the care of the Office of Works. Sir Charles Peers, Chief Inspector of Ancient Monuments, caused controversy by clearing the site of vegetation and establishing the principle of presenting historic monuments in neat, tidy, unobstructed settings
Historic England is the public body that champions and protects England's historic places
Media ID 10929067
© Historic England
Abbey Archive Church Gothic Medieval Picturing England Religion Ruin
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the timeless beauty of Rievaulx Abbey, a renowned Cistercian abbey located in North Yorkshire. Taken between 1850 and 1910 by an unknown photographer, this albumen print captures the essence of this historic site. Rievaulx Abbey has long been a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors since the 18th century. During the Victorian era, photographers were particularly drawn to these picturesque ruins adorned with ivy. The image reflects their fascination with capturing the ethereal charm of Gothic architecture and medieval religious sites. By 1917, however, Rievaulx Abbey faced imminent collapse and was entrusted to the care of the Office of Works. Sir Charles Peers, Chief Inspector of Ancient Monuments at that time, made a controversial decision to clear away vegetation from the site. This action established a new principle for presenting historic monuments – one that emphasized neatness and unobstructed views. Historic England's archive holds this remarkable photograph as part of its collection on picturing England's rich heritage. It serves as a poignant reminder not only of Rievaulx Abbey's historical significance but also highlights how our perception and preservation practices have evolved over time. As we gaze upon this image today, we are transported back in time to witness both nature's reclamation and human intervention converging within these ancient walls.
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