Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A masterful cutaway isometric drawing of St. Paul's Cathedral, revealing the complex 'triple-shell' construction of Christopher Wren's iconic dome. This specific print is dedicated to William Dunn and was measured and drawn by R.B. Brook-Greaves under the direction of Sir Mervyn Macartney.
Story
In 1923, St. Paul's was declared dangerous due to structural shifting. This drawing was part of a massive effort to document and save the cathedral, revealing secrets of the dome's hidden brick cone for the first time.
Maker / Origin
Sir Mervyn Macartney was the Surveyor of the Fabric of St. Paul's and a founding member of the Art Workers' Guild. He worked with R.B. Brook-Greaves, a brilliant draughtsman who spent years suspended in the cathedral's heights to capture these precise measurements.
Condition & Value
The print appears well-preserved under glass, though there is visible toning to the paper consistent with age. The dark matting is a modern addition; original condition of the paper edges behind the mat is unknown. Good condition overall.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.