Purbeck marble
|
First constructed in 1108, Chichester Cathedral was damaged by fire in 1187. Purbeck marble was used in several parts of the reconstruction, including the dark, thin columns on either side of this opening. |
The Penguin Dictionary of Architecture (third edition) was published in 1980. It was created for Penguin Reference and compiled by John Fleming, Hugh Honour and Nikolaus Pevsner.
It defines purbeck marble as: ‘A dark conglomerate from the Isle of Purbeck capable of receiving a high polish. In fashion in England from the later 12th century onwards and favoured particularing in the 13th century. Used for compound piers in churches Purbeck shafts in conjunction with shafts of normal limestone give a striking effect of light and dark. Also used for effigies all over England.’
Purbeck stone is a type of limestone that appears dark grey in colour due to the presence of a variety of minerals. Purbeck can be polished to give a faux marble effect and so came to be known as ‘Purbeck marble’, popular during medieval times but also used in the 19th century for high quality architectural interior decoration and thin columns.
See also: Purbeck stone.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
Featured articles and news
The sad story of Derby Hippodrome
An historic building left to decay.
ECA, JIB and JTL back Fabian Society call to invest in skills for a stronger built environment workforce.
Women's Contributions to the Built Environment.
Calls for the delayed Circular Economy Strategy
Over 50 leading businesses, trade associations and professional bodies, including CIAT, and UKGBC sign open letter.
The future workforce: culture change and skill
Under the spotlight at UK Construction Week London.
A landmark moment for postmodern heritage.
A safe energy transition – ECA launches a new Charter
Practical policy actions to speed up low carbon adoption while maintaining installation safety and competency.
Frank Duffy: Researcher and Practitioner
Reflections on achievements and relevance to the wider research and practice communities.
The 2026 Compliance Landscape: Fire doors
Why 'Business as Usual' is a Liability.
Cutting construction carbon footprint by caring for soil
Is construction neglecting one of the planet’s most powerful carbon stores and one of our greatest natural climate allies.
ARCHITECTURE: How's it progressing?
Archiblogger posing questions of a historical and contextual nature.
The roofscape of Hampstead Garden Suburb
Residents, architects and roofers need to understand detailing.
Homes, landlords. tenants and the new housing standards
What will it all mean?