Kenwood in Middlesex, from 'The works in architecture of Robert and James Adam', London, 1778. [Library shelfmark L.C.Fol.1].
'The works in architecture of Robert and James Adam' is considered the greatest architectural book of the 18th century.
Published in 1773, the book established the neo-classical 'Adam style', with engravings of elevations, plans, interiors, furniture and fireplaces.
The Adam brothers' work appealed to fashionable society, and many clients wanted their homes remodelled in the new style.
Kenwood, the Middlesex home of Lord Mansfield, was a typical example of Adam's way of working neo-classicism into an existing building. The interiors were renovated in the Adam style, while the north front was fitted with a giant portico and the south with the Corinthian columns and pediment shown in this engraving.
Read more about 'Works in architecture' in our Rare books collections.
'The works in architecture' was on display in 'The beautiful spirit of antiquity', at the Library from 16 June to 18 September.