Early Life and Education
Edmund Sharpe was born on February 21, 1809, in the village of Brookhouse, near Lancaster, England. He was the son of a local merchant and had a privileged upbringing that allowed him access to education and the arts. Sharpe began his formal education in architecture at the age of 16, working as an apprentice under the notable architect Thomas Rickman. This apprenticeship laid the foundation for Sharpe’s architectural philosophy, which emphasized the importance of historical context and local materials.
Career and Architectural Style
Sharpe began his professional career in the 1830s, quickly establishing a reputation for his innovative designs and mastery of Gothic Revival architecture. He became particularly known for his church designs, characterized by intricate stonework, pointed arches, and a deep respect for medieval styles. Sharpe's most notable projects include:
- St. John the Evangelist's Church (1842-1844) in Lancaster: This was one of his early works and is noted for its striking bell tower and beautiful stained glass.
- St. Paul’s Church (1847-1850) in the suburb of St. Paul’s in the city of Newcastle: An example of his skill in designing ecclesiastical buildings.
- The Lancaster Town Hall (1853-1855): A significant municipal building that showcased his ability to merge functionality with grandeur.
Sharpe was also a key figure in the establishment of the Architectural Society of the North of England in 1841, promoting education in architecture and the Gothic Revival movement. His writings, particularly “The Architecture of the Middle Ages”, reflect his advocacy for a revival of historical styles and the use of local materials, which would come to define much of his work.
Later Years and Legacy
In the latter part of his career, Sharpe became involved in various civic projects and continued to advocate for the preservation of historical buildings. He contributed significantly to the Gothic Revival movement in the North of England, influencing a generation of architects.
Sharpe's commitment to craftsmanship and the historical integrity of architecture left a lasting impact on the field. He passed away on July 15, 1877, leaving behind a legacy of notable works and a strong influence on future generations of architects.
References
- Drew, Philip. Edmund Sharpe: Architect and Antiquary. London: Ashgate Publishing, 2006.
- Hawkins, John. The Gothic Revival: An Essay in History and Aesthetics. London: Longmans, Green and Co., 1904.
- Hawkins, John. The Oxford Dictionary of National Biography: Sharpe, Edmund (1809-1877). Oxford University Press, 2004.
- Wainwright, Clive. A History of Architecture: A Primer. London: Thames & Hudson, 2010.
- Lancaster City Council. "Edmund Sharpe and the Gothic Revival in Lancaster." Retrieved from Lancaster City Council.