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
ECA Industry Awards 2024 shortlist revealed
22 leading businesses from across the electrotechnical and engineering services sector.
Government unveils Skills England strategy
Skills England to transform opportunities and drive growth.
New Government Hub for York Given Planning Green Light
For up to 2,600 civil servants, due for completion by 2028.
Construction Skills Certification Scheme cards
July update on Professionally Qualified and Academically Qualified Person Cards.
BSRIA Briefing 2024, November 22
Sustainable Futures: Redefining Retrofit for Net Zero Living.
The CLC on driving competency in the retrofit sector
Previously published roadmap on skills for net zero.
The first labour government King's speech in fifteen years
Construction industry reactions, support and some concern.
CIOB Retrofit of Buildings Technical Information Sheet
What retrofit is, the approach to be taken and processes to be followed.
Adapting Historic Buildings for Energy and Carbon Efficiency
Historic England advice note 18, free download published.
10 retrofit projects revisited 10 years after completion.
Information orders, building liability orders and SPVs
Key BSA terms and how they impact special purpose vehicles.
Listed despite problems with its design.
Zen and the art of cycling exploration.
Design Council Homes Taskforce launched
To support government 1.5 million homes target within UK climate commitments.