B.

Selby Abbey

Behind the scenes

Another Yorkshire landmark is the magnificent abbey at Selby, and the comparison between our print and a modern photo is revealing.

Photo: Tim Jones

Photo: Tim Jones

Our print is undated but is obviously earlier then 1847, the engraver's date of death. It equally obviously predates a Victorian 'thorough restoration' and the complete re-build which took place after a disastrous fire in 1906. After all that, it is almost surprising that this view of the west end is recognizable at all. The twin towers then are Edwardian and if you imagine them, and all the half-timbered buildings to the right removed, then you just about have the pre-restoration look.

Or rather one of its pre-restoration looks: since its foundation in 1069, Selby Abbey has changed its appearance many time and both of the images above are very much mere snapshots in time

You can read all about Selby Abbey, including the window dedicated to the local Washington family (composed, of course, of stars and stripes) here.

John Byrne Selby Abbey, West View. Engraving. Collection of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, Sir Joseph Kinsey bequest

John Byrne Selby Abbey, West View. Engraving. Collection of Christchurch Art Gallery Te Puna o Waiwhetū, Sir Joseph Kinsey bequest