Pulteney Bridge, Bath

Pulteney Bridge
1774, Bath
Robert Adam, Architect
 
This drawing shows the bridge as it would have appeared shortly after its completeion in 1774. It has since been much altered and only a shadow of its original Palladian purity.
 
The bridge was commissioned to join the city with newly developed land across the Avon.
 
Built of limestone, in classic Palladian style, the southern façade takes the form of a temple-like central bay with symmetrical wings connecting to two flanking, terminating pavilions.
The central bay is given eminence by a broken pediment supported by Tuscan pilasters.
It in turn is flanked by two small bays, each with a small pointed pediment supported by shallow pilasters, which further emphasise and complement the central broken pediment sitting above a large Palladian window – the focal point of the building.
 
The two terminating pavilions, originally with Tuscan porticos have shallow saucer domes concealed behind their pediments.
 
The western mid-stream pier was rebuilt in 1804. Further alteration took place in 1895, when the western pavilion was moved for the construction of the Grand Parade. 
 
Original drawing in Watercolour and Ink on Moulin du Roy Watercolour Paper 100% Cotton, 300gsm. 559 x 768mm (22” x 30”)
 
Please note that the prints are sold unframed and that the photgraphs on my site are for illustrative purposes only.