Earl of Burlington
Origins
The title of Earl of Burlington originated in the Peerage of England in 1664. The first Earl of Burlington was Richard Boyle, who was previously the 2nd Earl of Cork. He was a wealthy landowner and a prominent figure in the English Civil War. His contributions to the Royalist cause during the war earned him the earldom from King Charles II.
Boyle Family
The Boyle family held the title for three generations. The 2nd Earl of Burlington was Charles Boyle, who inherited the title from his father. He was a notable figure in the English Restoration period and was known for his patronage of the arts. His son, the 3rd Earl of Burlington, was Richard Boyle, a renowned architect and a key figure in the introduction of Palladian architecture to Britain. His architectural works earned him the nickname "the Apollo of the Arts".
Cavendish Family
The title of Earl of Burlington was revived in the Peerage of the United Kingdom in 1831 for the Cavendish family. The first of the Cavendish line to hold the title was William Cavendish, the 7th Duke of Devonshire. The Cavendish family has held the title to the present day, with the current holder being William Cavendish, the 12th Duke of Devonshire and 8th Earl of Burlington.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Earl of Burlington, like other peers, had a number of responsibilities. These included serving in the House of Lords, advising the monarch, and performing ceremonial duties. The Earl was also expected to maintain the family estates and to patronize the arts and sciences.
Influence on Architecture
The title of Earl of Burlington is perhaps most associated with the 3rd Earl, Richard Boyle. His passion for architecture led to the introduction of Palladian style in England. This style, characterized by symmetry, perspective, and values of the formal classical temple architecture of the Ancient Greeks and Romans, had a profound influence on English architecture.
Legacy
The legacy of the Earls of Burlington can be seen in their architectural contributions, their patronage of the arts, and their service to the state. The title itself has become synonymous with architectural innovation and artistic patronage.