Fordland ([1815])

Thomas Hewitt Williams
  • image IMAGEFORDA4086
RepositoryLibraryShelf
Devon West Country Studies sDEV/1815/WIL
Illustration Reference
SC1189
Location
CD 20 DVD 3
Publication Details
Date
[1815]
Place
Scope and Content
Williams, T.H. Picturesque excursions in Devonshire: the environs of Exeter. Exeter: T.H.Williams, 1815/16.FordlandON the left of Long-down, about two miles from Exeter, there is a cluster of small woody Vallies or rather Coombs, nearly converging in a small meadow; through this latter place a clear stream runs, formed by the junction of the numerous rills, which unites itself to the Exe below Alphington. These beautiful Coombs form the place so well known in the county by the name of Fordland, the property of Jas. White, Esq. of Exeter, to whose taste it owes its present improved appearance. A Cottage, an occasional residence, is at the end of a sweet little lawn, commanding a view through two vales, rich with water, and luxuriant with oaks. The walks through the various grounds occupy an extent of nearly seven miles; and in various parts, rustic temples, and seats are placed, either for the purpose of rest, or the enjoyment of the prospect.[…] So admirably is the art of improvement concealed, that no expectation can be formed of what is to come; but on passing through a shrubbery, the senses are surprised and delighted, the effect is quite magical, it is a transportation to Fairy land, the Cottage, the Lawn, the Vallies, the Woods, the Lakes burst on the sight; the impression made is only checked by the desire of exploring the scenes which so suddenly present themselves. It is one of those charming secluded places that gives us delight, from the simplicity of its character. The mind is overpowered by places of great extent and diversity, with sumptuous buildings, and extravagant expense, that the fortune of most of its visitors would be unable to support; and by the exclusion of hope, produces a feeling the very opposite to that which constitutes a part of our happiness.[…]In a well chosen situation, a circular building is placed, and several trees below support at their trunks a variety of seats; a place sufficient for the reception of a large party; from this point the view was taken, any further description of it would therefore be unnecessary.[…] The highest interest is excited by a Picture, or Scenery, where there is a full and natural combination of the several parts; with the choice of effect, which arises from, the magic of light and shade; the beauty of a serene morning or evening ; or the wildness and agitations of a tempest. But there are many degrees of picturesque pleasure, and places should be valued for what they afford, without the silliness of comparisons. This sweet place is perfect in all the associations which wood scenery produces, it has a great variety of surface, and having been formed from a state of rude nature, by the present proprietor, it may, at some future time be further improved; extending the piece of water up the valley, would add greatly to the effect of it. [Text may be taken from a different edition than that listed as the source by Somers Cocks.]
Format
Etching
Dimensions
101x147mm
Series
S42. WILLIAMS, Thomas Hewitt: PICTURESQUE EXCURSIONS IN DEVONSHIRE: THE ENVIRONS OF EXETER. Pt. I. The Eastern and Southern Coast.
Note
Untitled. Title taken from list of plates called for
Places
Aspects
Exterior
Counties
Subjects
Dates
1815