The English Archway

The English Archway circa 1854

A striking Gothic Revival wrought-iron arch, dating to circa 1854, from the former St Matthew’s Vicarage estate in Camden and, more recently, the estate of the late Nancy Fouts.

The vicarage was designed by architect John Johnson, who later collaborated on Alexandra Palace. This blacksmith-made arch is believed to have formed an original architectural element of either the vicarage or the adjacent church, also designed by Johnson. The church suffered bomb damage during the Second World War and was subsequently demolished in the 1970s.

Originally gilded and later overpainted, traces of the original gilt remain visible in places, peeking through the later finish and adding greatly to the arch’s character and sense of history.

A wonderfully evocative architectural artefact with excellent provenance, the arch would make a dramatic decorative feature incorporated into a doorway or entrance, or simply displayed against a pale grey or white wall where its Gothic silhouette and aged surface could be fully appreciated.

Dimensions

Height: 251cm (99")
Width: 131cm (52")
Depth: 3 cm  (1")

Details

Date: Circa 1854
Origin: England (UK)
Maker: John Johnson
Materials: Cast iron
Condition: Aged

Condition Report

This remarkable piece is over 150 years old and has stood the test of time, having spent much of its life in an outdoor environment. Despite its considerable age, the overall structure remains remarkably firm and substantial.

As shown in the photographs, two small leaf fragments are missing from the upper-left section. One of the leaves on the right-hand side has also undergone a historic repair and is secured with a bracket to hold it firmly in place.

Beneath the aged black-painted finish, areas of the original gold gilt decoration can still be seen, offering an attractive glimpse of the piece's earlier appearance and adding considerably to its antique character.

The item dismantles into several sections for easier handling and transportation, with the individual components secured together using silver-coloured bolts and screws. Once assembled, it can be positioned against a wall to create an impressive decorative display.

As expected for an outdoor piece of this age, there is visible rust and weathering in places. However, the overall structure remains strong and solid. Having already survived for more than a century and a half, it is a wonderfully characterful antique that, with appropriate care, can continue to be enjoyed for many years to come.

Shipping & Handling

UK Buyers: Delivery is available through our trusted courier partners, including specialist services for valuable, oversized and fragile items.

International Buyers: Worldwide shipping is available. Please contact us prior to purchase for a bespoke shipping quotation. Given the age, size and delicate nature of this piece, we strongly recommend fully insured, tracked and professionally crated shipping.

Dispatch Time: Typically 3–7 working days, subject to destination and courier arrangements.

Our Guarantee

At The House of Antiques Ltd / The Purest Space Ltd, we are committed to transparency, quality and exceptional customer service.

Every item is carefully inspected, accurately described and extensively photographed. As our pieces are antique and vintage, individual signs of age and use form part of their history and character. We encourage prospective buyers to review all photographs carefully and contact us with any questions before purchasing.

Returns & Cancellations

Returns are accepted only where an item is found to differ materially from its description. Any such issue must be reported within 48 hours of delivery.

We are unable to accept returns or cancellations due to a change of mind. Unless otherwise agreed, all return shipping costs, including suitable insurance, remain the responsibility of the buyer.

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