Newark Castle, on the Clyde

H. W. Brewer

c. 1880

Signed with initials lower left

Source: Stevenson’s House Architecture, I, 361

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Commentary by J. J. Stevenson

The Scotch "Baronial" architecture, as it is called, resembles that of the Renaissance chateaux of France, and we are frequently told that such a noble built his castle in the French manner, or even employed a French architect. Newark Castle, on the Clyde, near Port Glasgow, is a fair example of the style. It dates probably from the end of the sixteenth or beginning of tbe seventeenth century, as the initials of the laird who held it at that time are introduced into its architecture. The round pepper-box turrets with conical roofs are common features in French Renaissance. In both styles there is the same semblance of fortification, useless against cannon or even against the war engines of mediaeval times, though capable of withstanding a sudden attack from a hostile neighbour or a rising of the peasantry. The machicolations and the angle turrets have no openings at the bottom for throwing molten lead and missiles on assailants. The windows of the turrets are on the outer angle, not where they could enfilade the walls. It is a dwelling-house with large windows, unlike the mediaeval fortress. The lower part, being used for cellarage. is a solid base with only a few small openings, which is a chief element in the character and dignity of the style; but this is as much from old habit and from a preference for upper rooms for living in, as for defence. [360-61]

Bibliography

Stevenson, J. J. House Architecture. 2 vols. London: Macmillan, 1880.

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Last modified 17 July 2017