William Burges

Architect, designer and eccentric

There was a section of the arts and crafts community in the mid-19^th century who were heavily influenced by the late medieval Gothic designs. They were categorised as ‘Gothic revivalists’, and William Burges was probably the most devoted adherent to that style.

William Burges was the son of a very successful civil engineer. He was well educated and widely travelled, and was very talented in all disciplines of artistic endeavour. He had a passion for the world of the Middle Ages, and especially for Gothic architecture. He called himself an 'art-architect'. He placed great importance upon the decoration and furnishing of his buildings. But Burges' taste for rich effects in sculpture, murals, mosaic and stained glass was not to everyones taste. Furthermore, it made him an extremely expensive architect to employ, and more importantly, to construct his designs. Consequently, few people could afford him.

His father had enjoyed the patronage of the second Marquis of Bute, and in turn, the third Marquis of Bute was William Burges’ principal patron. But William Burges has a considerable portfolio of architectural achievements to his name.

Designing jewellery, which he seemed to do mainly for friends and acquaintances, often on commission to commemorate special events, or as personal gifts, was a minor aspect of his artistic and creative achievements. But to those who hold him and his achievements in high regard, they are an important part of his creative output. And even taken in isolation, they are exquisitely beautiful in themselves.

Samples of William Burges Jewellery design:

Selected examples of William Burges Architecture: