Guildford Cathedral West End Frith Architectural Postcard

Description

Guildford Cathedral West End Frith Architectural Postcard

An evocative pre-completion visualisation of Guildford Cathedral’s west front — a striking glimpse into England’s mid-century ecclesiastical ambition.

Measurements: approx. 5 1/2 x 4 1/8 inches
Dates: not available
Condition: Light wear consistent with age. Please check our images.
Internal notes: QC passed

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Rendered with solemn precision and visionary intent, this architectural postcard presents a projected view of Guildford Cathedral – The West End As It Will Be. Frith’s Series of Reigate produced this image before the cathedral’s full completion in the mid-20th century, offering a rare insight into the aspirations of one of England’s few post-Reformation Anglican cathedrals.

The design, by Sir Edward Maufe, fused Gothic Revival verticality with stripped-back modernist clarity. Construction began in 1936 but was delayed by the Second World War, with the cathedral finally consecrated in 1961. This card likely dates to the 1950s and forms part of a visionary series aimed at presenting future architecture as a proud part of Britain’s sacred heritage.

For collectors of ecclesiastical architecture, Frith’s documentary work, or modern British heritage, this card stands as a fascinating testament to sacred design caught between tradition and renewal.

Categories: architecture, churches, ephemera, postcards, surrey, vintage
Tags: cathedral, frith, guildford, maufe, modernism, surrey, unfinished
Focus keyword: guildford cathedral postcard
Suggested internal link keywords: frith series, guildford history, ecclesiastical architecture, british cathedrals, surrey landmarks

Additional information