Hannah Kašpar

Profile

I am an AHRC-funded PhD student with a particular research interest in eighteenth-century architecture and decorative art. My thesis focuses on the works of the Scottish neoclassical architect Robert Adam (1728-92). It examines his craft networks, subcontracting practices and surveying activities, highlighting the logistical and financial aspects of his work. From a geographical perspective, my research explores the distribution of tasks between London-based and regional craft firms. It also assesses the impact of transport and communication infrastructure on Adam’s capacity to supervise long-distance projects. It addresses the many contingencies shaping the pace and progress of Adam’s commissions, which hinged on carefully co-ordinated movements of people, goods and information.

Central to my research is a project entitled ‘Adam’s London Craft Network’, which is accessible via the platform Layers of London. It uses digital mapping technologies to trace Adam’s subcontracted network, offering new insights into the distribution of artists, craftspeople, businesses, and institutions with ties to the Adam office. ‘Craft clusters’ are visible at parish and street level, revealing interactivity between trades and affinities for specific neighbourhoods.

Before starting my PhD, I completed a MA in French and British Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors, and also worked as a copy-editor. I had previously taught English as a Foreign Language in Prague and Paris, before taking on editorial roles at publishers specialising in History, Politics, Art, and Design.

Research interests

• Architecture, decorative art and craftsmanship in the long eighteenth century
• British and European Neoclassicism
• Furniture History
• Country House Studies
• Eighteenth Century Studies
• Heritage Studies
• Material Culture
• Social History of Art
• History of Collecting

Qualifications

• MA Decorative Arts and Historic Interiors, University of Buckingham
• MSt English (1900-Present), University of Oxford
• BA English Literature, Durham University