The Rhombic Dodecahedron – Cornerstone of Soulton’s Hidden Geometric Code
James D. Wenn, of Byriga Genhit, has set out fascinating set of insights into Soulton Hall as part of his wider work on English culture and its deep influences.
A rhombicdodecahedron. By Cyp, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
His scholarship shows how Sir Rowland Hill put a secret code into the architecture of Soulton Hall, specifically referencing the geometry of the rhombic dodecahedron.
The rhombic dodecahedron is a 12-faced solid with diamond-shaped faces. He explains how this geometric form is intentionally encoded throughout Soulton Hall’s design, for example, in:
- The original pyramidal roof (since replaced)
- The cube form of the building
- The Dance
This image depicts a scholarly reconstruction of Soulton Hall, highlighting its architectural elements inspired by the ancient theater of Epidaurus. The yellow lines trace these features, revealing the Rowland Hill’s homage to the renowned Greek structure.
Recognizing the potential complexity of visualizing the rhombic dodecahedron, BYRGA GENIHT Ltd has helpfully provided 3D animations to assist with understanding this geometric form, linked to philosophers like Plato.
Some minerals such as garnet form a rhombic dodecahedral crystal habit. When Sir Rowland Hill is painted, he is shown with a conspicuous garnet stone ring:
Sir Rowland Hill, Attingham Park copy
At Soulton Hall this tradition continued with images of the family painted quite recently, maintaining this garnet custom. For example, here is Hannah Deakin in her portrait with a bohemian garnet:
Hannah Deakin who preserved The Dance in the Soulton Pavement.
