Home > Architecture > Bridges > Clifton Suspension Bridge
Clifton Suspension Bridge competition drawing 1, by Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Wall Art and Photo Gifts from SS Great Britain
Clifton Suspension Bridge competition drawing 1, by Isambard Kingdom Brunel
Design for the Clifton Suspension Bridge: Drawing number 1. Section and plan at C.E.
Bridge at top of cliff, Romanesque arch at each end, the first design...for a bridge of 760 feet span...height of 215 feet above high water mark...towers 70 foot high...built on the cliffs to carry the chains. Brunel did not approve of this design, as the situation was not favourable to architectural effect, a point to which the committee attached great importance: but he suggested it from its being somewhat more economical than other plans (Isambard Brunel, Life of I.K.Brunel, p. 47).
Image used by Courtesy of the Brunel Institute - a collaboration of the SS Great Britain Trust and the University of Bristol
Media ID 24278460
© University of Bristol / SS Great Britain Trust
Bristol Clifton Suspension Bridge Isambard Kingdom Brunel Victorians
FEATURES IN THESE COLLECTIONS
> Architecture
> Bridges
> Clifton Suspension Bridge
> Architecture
> Drawings
> Architecture
> Styles
> Romanesque Architecture
> Architecture
> Styles
> Victorian Architecture
> Architecture
> Towers
> Tower Bridge
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life artwork
> Life drawings
> Arts
> Realistic drawings
> Still life drawings
> Life drawings
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Bristol
> Bristol
> Europe
> United Kingdom
> England
> Bristol
> Clifton
> SS Great Britain
> Clifton Suspension Bridge
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the first design drawing of the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, created by the brilliant engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel. The intricate sketch reveals a Romanesque arch at each end, with towers standing 70 feet high and built on cliffs to support the chains. Spanning an impressive 760 feet and towering at a height of 215 feet above high water mark, this ambitious design aimed to connect Bristol's Clifton area with Leigh Woods. Interestingly, Brunel himself did not fully endorse this particular design due to its lack of architectural impact in its surroundings. However, he proposed it as a more cost-effective option compared to other plans under consideration. This detail highlights his practicality and dedication to finding innovative solutions. The image provides us with a glimpse into the mind of one of history's greatest engineers and architects. It serves as a testament to Brunel's visionary thinking during the Victorian era when engineering feats were pushing boundaries like never before. Courtesy of the Brunel Institute—a collaboration between the SS Great Britain Trust and the University of Bristol—this photograph preserves an important piece of history that continues to inspire awe today.
MADE IN THE UK
Safe Shipping with 30 Day Money Back Guarantee
FREE PERSONALISATION*
We are proud to offer a range of customisation features including Personalised Captions, Color Filters and Picture Zoom Tools
SECURE PAYMENTS
We happily accept a wide range of payment options so you can pay for the things you need in the way that is most convenient for you
* Options may vary by product and licensing agreement. Zoomed Pictures can be adjusted in the Basket.
