Gezicht op Allerton Castle, bij Whixley 1707

This is an engraving of Allerton Castle near Whixley in Yorkshire, made by an anonymous artist. It gives us an elevated, almost god-like, view of the estate. The strict geometry of the gardens, with their neat rows and symmetrical arrangements, speaks volumes about the owner’s control over nature and, by extension, their social inferiors. Consider how the image presents an ideal of order and control. The image probably dates from the 18th century, a period when country houses were centres of power, culture and politics. The landed gentry who owned these estates dominated British society, holding positions in Parliament, the Church and the military. These houses weren't just private residences; they were statements of wealth and influence. Looking closely at prints like this, we can use archival resources such as estate records, personal letters and other documents. These resources can help us to understand the complex social and institutional histories that are embedded in this image.