Ancient Maison Lucerne 1835

John Ruskin made this drawing of an ancient building in Lucerne using pen and ink. Ruskin was deeply concerned with the preservation of historical architecture, seeing in it a connection to a pre-industrial past. Ruskin’s view of architecture wasn't just about aesthetics; he believed that buildings reflected the moral and social values of the societies that created them. He was particularly drawn to Gothic architecture, which he saw as embodying qualities like honesty, craftsmanship, and a connection to nature. In contrast, he criticized what he saw as the soullessness and dehumanizing effects of industrialization, which he believed were reflected in the architecture of his time. Ruskin's writings on architecture were part of a broader critique of Victorian society, and understanding them requires delving into the social and intellectual currents of his era. We can look into sources such as his own books and essays, architectural treatises, and social commentaries of the time.