Summary
Sandstone chest tomb with pink granite lid, c.1863
Reasons for Designation
The monument to James Bunstone Bunning is listed at Grade II for the following principal reasons:
* Historic interest: commemorates a notable C19 architect and one of the designers of Highgate Cemetery;
*Setting: it is located within the Grade I registered Highgate Cemetery and has group value with other listed tombs and structures nearby.
History
James Bunstone Bunning (1802–1863) was a London-born architect and surveyor, and a member of the triumvirate responsible for the design of Highgate Cemetery. He held various official posts, notably that of Clerk of Works (later Architect) to the City of London, in which capacity he was responsible for the laying out of New Cannon Street and the building of the famous Coal Exchange on Lower Thames Street (demolished in 1962 for a road widening scheme that was never completed. Its loss resulted in public outcry and, together with the demolition of the Euston Arch the same year, raised awareness of the need to appreciate and preserve Victorian buildings) and the Caledonian Market in Islington. In 1839 Bunning succeeded Stephen Geary as Surveyor to the London Cemetery Company, and he seems to have been largely responsible for the design of the Egyptian Avenue at Highgate. He was also the chief architect of the Company's other major cemetery at Nunhead.
Details
The monument takes the form of a shallow stone chest with sunken side panels and detached corner pilasters with pyramidal caps. The inset granite lid is inscribed: ‘To the memory of James Bunstone Bunning F.S.A. Architect to the Honourable the Corporation of the City of London. Born October 9th 1802, died November 2nd 1863. Also of Esther Bunning widow of the above named James Bunstone Bunning, died April 14 1877 aged 73. In their death they were not divided.’ The edge of the lid is inscribed with the mason's name: 'J.S. Farley, 181 Goswell Rd'.
Sources
Books and journals Other
Legal
This building is listed under the Planning (Listed Buildings and Conservation Areas) Act 1990 as amended for its special architectural or historic interest.
End of official list entry
