Architectural Model of St James’ Church, Poole

Architectural Model of St James’ Church, Poole

England, c.1820–1880

Tin, painted glass, mixed media

Dimensions: 45 cm wide x 29 cm high x 21 cm deep

A rare and evocative architectural model of St James’ Church in Poole, meticulously constructed in tin during the 19th century and reflecting the principles of Gothic Revival architecture in miniature.

This exceptional piece combines crenelated walls, arched windows, and buttressed façades with a finely articulated interior comprising a painted altar, font, organ, and surviving wall decoration, all designed to be viewed under illumination. The hand-painted stained glass windows are mounted in cut-glass frames, suggesting its function as a lit display object, likely for private devotional or educational use.

Built possibly by or for a parishioner or architect connected to the church’s 19th-century rebuilding. Its scale, craftsmanship, and completeness distinguish it as a rare survival of 19th century ecclesiastical modelling.