XIII. Some Observations on Lincoln Cathedral. By Mr. James Essex

Extract

If the principles of Gothic architecture are now but little known, the various styles of building, which come under the denomination of Gothic, are pretty well ascertained; and as the first, if well understood and properly applied, would be useful to modern professors of architecture; so the latter may be usefully applied by the lovers of antiquities, to illustrate or correct the different historical accounts which antient writers have left us of many elegant structures which once adorned this kingdom, some of which yet remain, to perpetuate the piety of their founders, and the magnificence of the ages in which they were built; and, notwithstanding the ravages of time, or the depredations of rebellion and fanatic rage, still convey to the curious inspector a just idea of the merits and abilities of that ingenious fraternity who have been long distinguished by the name of Free-Masons.