The Queen's House

The original building for the Queen's House, built on an H plan, was constructed astride the main highway with a bridge joining the two wings . But work stopped on this portion in 1619 and was not resumed until 1630 when it was then completed by Jones' assistant, John Webb (1611-1674), for Henrietta Maria, wife of Charles I. The original work, seen here, represents a striking departure from earlier English building styles, and indicates new understanding of Italian models. In 1619, its proportions, simplicity, and spare detail must have seemed a stark departure from the architecture of the nearby Tudor Palace of Placentia, birthplace of Queen Elizabeth. In fact, it is the first perfect building of the Renaissance in England.