author
Philip Norman
1842–1931
Best known for preserving the look of old London in both words and images, this British antiquary and watercolor artist brought disappearing streets and buildings vividly to life. His books blend a researcher’s curiosity with an artist’s eye for detail.
2 Audiobooks
London Signs and Inscriptions
by Philip Norman
Drawings of Old London
by Philip Norman
About the author
Born in Bromley on July 9, 1842, Philip Norman was a British artist, author, and antiquary. He was educated at Eton and trained in drawing and watercolor, and he became especially interested in the history and architecture of London.
Norman is remembered for recording parts of the city that were being altered or demolished in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Alongside his artwork, he wrote historical and antiquarian works, bringing together careful observation, local history, and a strong sense of place.
He was also recognized in scholarly circles as a Fellow of the Society of Antiquaries. Norman died on May 17, 1931, leaving behind a body of work valued both for its artistic charm and for the way it preserves the memory of historic London.