Hopper Mausoleum North-East Of Church Of St. Andrew

SHOTLEY LOW QUARTER GREYMARE HILL NZ 05 NW 10/261 Hopper Mausoleum north-east of 15.4.69 Church of St. Andrew. (formerly listed as Hopper family Mausoleum in St Andrews Churchyard)

GV 1

Mausoleum allegedly erected by Humphrey Hopper of Black Hedley (q,v.) in memory-of his wife Jane, d,1752. Tooled ashlar. Square plan with forecourt on south. Artisan Mannerist style of C17 appearance. Lower part has segmental-arched recess with hoodmould, holding 2. recumbent effigies; inscribed panel above to later C18/early C19 members of family; similar panel on north records earlier memebers. Upper part has Tuscan arcade and shell-headed niches with allegorical standing figures; twin niches on north and south with paired columns between. Above entablature, open scrolly pediment topped by reclining figures and enclosing Hopper arms (south), scallop shell (north) and shields with rosette (at sides). Stepped pyramidal roof with pyramidal angle finials carrying square arched cupola with similar finials at angles and on swept pyramidal cap.

Forecourt has low wall with chamfered coping and 4 piers to front, with trefoil-headed panels and pedimented tops; single side piers have steep pyramidal finials. Simple renewed cast-iron railings and central gate.

Stylistically it would appear more likely that the mausoleum was built by the Humphrey Hopper recorded in 1663 rather than the mid-C18 Humphrey to whom it is ascribed (the inscribed panels are of C19 date).

Listing NGR: NZ0453955212