The use of English and German pattern books at the Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz at the turn of the 19th century

A groundbreaking study challenges the conventional narrative of cultural and architectural transfer between Britain and Germany during the late 18th century. Focusing on three lesser-explored structures within the UNESCO-listed Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz, this research reveals a complex process of replication, translation, and adaptation in design, with one case—the 'Schlangenhaus' or 'snake house'—suggesting it may have influenced British pattern books, potentially reversing the direction of cultural exchange. The study also sheds light on copyright and authorship issues of the era, where German publications copied British designs without attribution. Employing a comparative analysis of British and German pattern books, literature reviews, expert consultations, and site visits, this work re-evaluates the significance of these structures within the broader architectural discourse of 18th-century Europe.

Oschatz, C. (2018). The use of English and German pattern books at the Garden Kingdom of Dessau-Wörlitz at the turn of the 19th century. Birmingham City University. https://doi.org/10.5165/HAWK-HHG/416