Margam Abbey, Glamorganshire. S. Sparrow & S. Hooper. Engraving on paper. 1786 By 1787, Margam Abbey was described as 'in a very slovenly state.' It is shown here crumbling and overgrown with foliage. Alarmed parishioners petitioned Thomas Mansel, owner of the estate, to effect repairs. At the time he was preoccupied with the building of the Orangery at Margam, but eventually agreed. During the process of repair he made extensive alterations to the building's exterior. He removed of the bell-tower seen here, so that the Abbey wouldn't be glimpsed over the roof of his new Orangery.
Purchased by the Cardiff Museum, 1896. NMW A 6820