Restoration Drawing 1936

Robert W.R. Taylor made this "Restoration Drawing" on an unknown date using what looks like watercolor and graphite on paper. I imagine Taylor standing on the threshold to history, brush in hand. You know, capturing not just what is, but what could be, what was! The architectural form is rendered with such crisp precision. I wonder if he felt like a detective, piecing together clues from the past? The graphite under-drawing gives the image a sturdy, solid feel, and the washes of muted watercolor adds a layer of gentle warmth, like sunlight on old stone. I’m particularly drawn to the way the light plays across the wooden doors. There's an exquisite attention to detail here, reminiscent of the meticulous work of the old masters. The tiles, painted in soft shades of peach, beige, and blue, give a decorative feel to the construction. Taylor's drawing reminds us that restoration isn’t just about rebuilding. It is a creative act, an interpretation, and a continuation of the ongoing conversation between artists and time.