Bilder Sebastiano Serlio (1475–1554) – Architectural Studies of Roman Monuments – Woodcut (1540)

Beskrivning

This architectural study features a group of detailed woodcut diagrams analyzing the structural and decorative elements of ancient Roman buildings. The upper portion of the plate presents various profiles of entablatures and cornices, meticulously labeled with letters to indicate specific architectural moldings and their proportions. Below these fragments, two architectural elevations are shown: the left depicts a two-story arched structure with pilasters, representing a slice of a classical facade, while the right presents a larger, four-columned portico or temple front. This work is from the third book of Serlio's treatise, titled On Antiquities (Il Terzo Libro), which served as the first comprehensive illustrated catalog of Rome’s ancient monuments. By documenting these ruins with precise measurements and analytical drawings, the plate provided Renaissance architects with a repertoire of classical forms to use in modern construction.

Sebastiano Serlio (1475–1554) was a pioneering Italian Mannerist architect, painter, and theorist whose writings transformed the study of classical architecture. Born in Bologna and trained under Baldassarre Peruzzi in Rome, Serlio is most famous for his multi-volume treatise Tutte l'opere d'architettura et prospetiva. He was the first author to use high-quality woodcut illustrations as the primary focus of an architectural handbook, prioritizing visual models over dense theoretical text. His influence was immense throughout Europe, particularly in France where he served as a consultant to King Francis I at Fontainebleau, successfully bridging the gap between Italian Renaissance theory and practical craftsmanship.

Artist or Maker: Sebastiano Serlio.

Dimensions: Approximately 30 cm x 20 cm.

Medium: Woodcut.

Date: 1540.

Condition Report:
This work is in good condition overall. There may be a few minor imperfections or fox or mottled marks to be expected with age. Please review the images carefully for condition details, and feel free to contact us with any questions or for a comprehensive condition report.