Brass rubbing is a unique way of creating a lasting image of brass memorial plaques that are found in churches and cathedrals across the UK. It involves placing paper over the brass and using wax or graphite to rub the image onto the paper, capturing details such as inscriptions and designs. If you’re visiting London and looking to try your hand at it, here are some places where you can get brass rubbings.
The City of London
One of the best places to find brass rubbing opportunities is in the City of London. St. Martin’s-in-the-Fields, located in Trafalgar Square, offers visitors a chance to create their own brass rubbing using replicas of original brass plates from churches around England. The church also has knowledgeable staff who can guide you through the process and provide historical context on the memorials.
The British Museum
The British Museum is another great place to try your hand at brass rubbing. Located in Bloomsbury, this world-renowned museum has a number of ancient Egyptian artifacts with detailed hieroglyphics that are perfect for creating unique rubbings. The museum also provides all necessary materials for visitors to create their own rubbings.
Westminster Abbey
Westminster Abbey, located in central London, is not only an iconic landmark but also a great place for avid brass rubbers. Visitors can make rubbings from replicas of original plates found throughout the abbey’s many chapels and tombs. Additionally, there are knowledgeable volunteers on hand who can provide visitors with historical information about each memorial.
The Victoria and Albert Museum
The Victoria and Albert Museum is home to an impressive collection of decorative arts and design pieces from around the world. The museum offers visitors a chance to create their own rubbings from a selection of medieval tombstones that line its walls. The tombstones have intricate designs that make for beautiful and unique rubbings.
St. Paul’s Cathedral
St. Paul’s Cathedral, located in the heart of the city, is another iconic landmark that offers visitors a chance to create brass rubbings. The cathedral has a number of brass plates and memorials that are perfect for rubbing. Additionally, there are knowledgeable staff members who can guide visitors through the process and provide historical context.
Conclusion
If you’re looking to try your hand at brass rubbing, London is an excellent place to start. With a variety of locations offering unique opportunities to create rubbings from historic and artistic memorials, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and unique way to explore London’s landmarks, brass rubbing is definitely worth trying out!