The architecture of Sir Ernest George and his partners, c. 1860-1922.

Abstract

This thesis examines the architectural work of Sir Ernest George and his partners from C. 1860 to 1922. Chapter 1 provides an introduction to George's early life, pupillage and training, the partnership with Thomas Vaughan and the establishment and consolidation of practice. George and Vaughan's first country house commission, Rousdon, Devon and associated works for Sir Henry Peek are considered in detail. Chapter 2 examines the Peto family and its associations, noting influences on George through his partnership with Harold Ainsworth Peto. Reference is made to the effects of the Petos on the pattern of patronage of the firm. George's early work in the Queen Anne style is introduced through an examination of the circumstances surrounding his commission for premises for Messrs Thomas Goode and Company, London; associations with the Temperance Movement, and the work for the 4th Eatl of Onslow in Surrey are also considered. Chapter 3 investigates the firm's connections with Peto Brothers, Builders, and their subsequent collaborative work at Harrington and Collingham Gardens in Kensington, London. In Chapter 4, George and Peto's work during the period from 1882 to 1892 is examined; works executed in terra-cotta are grouped together, as are works for new and established clients, commissions abroad and London work. In Chapter 5, six country houses which can readily be used to illustrate particular aspects of George and Peto's work have been singled out for investigation. Chapter 6 deals with George's work executed with his third partner, Alfred Yeates. Both their domestic and general work is examined against the background of stylistic debate and change. Chapter 7 provides six case studies of country houses by George and Yeates which serve to illustrate different aspects of their practice, and stylistic vocabulary. Chapter 8 examines George and Yeates's competition entries and two major commissions, for Golders Green Crematorium, London and Southwark Bridge, London. Chapter 9 discusses the office of Sir Ernest George from C. 1860 to 1920, describing office practice, and giving an account of George's pupils and assistants. Chapter 10 examines George's contributions to public and professional life, provides a resume of biography and a conclusion. The catalogue gives detailed references to all the works identified as being executed by Sir Ernest George and his partners between C. 1860 and 1922