XXXVI. Account of some Remains of Gothic Architecture in Italy and Sicily, by Robert Smirke, Esq. jun. F.A.S. in a Letter to Samuel Lysons, Esq. Director

Extract

In answer to your question, whether I had given any attention to Gothic architecture during my late continental tour, I have to say, although that style of art necessarily formed but a subordinate part in my system of foreign study, I could not avoid looking with much interest at every specimen of it which occurred in my route; not only from the pleasure of contemplating a species of art to which every Englishman, from early habits and its own intrinsic merit, must feel considerable attachment, but from a curiosity to see in what manner it had been treated by foreigners. The examples of this style in Germany are numerous and splendid; and though there are many in Italy, it may be remarked that they are generally in a more mixed and unformed character of design, a defect that may be ascribed to the aspect which the face of that country, different from all others, formerly presented with regard to more ancient architectural remains.