Bilder Sebastiano Serlio (1475–1554) – Elevation of a two-story classical palace – engraving (1566)

Beskrivning

This engraving shows the detailed facade of a two-story classical palace, featuring a rhythmic arrangement of arched windows and decorative pilasters on the ground floor, topped by rectangular windows with alternating triangular and segmental pediments on the upper level. The illustration highlights the use of rusticated masonry and classical proportions, serving as a model for Renaissance residential architecture. This technical plate was published as part of Tutte l'opere d'architettura et prospetiva, a foundational multi-volume treatise that systematically categorized architectural principles. By presenting high-quality visual models alongside geometric proportions, the work served as a definitive practical manual for architects and builders, facilitating the spread of High Renaissance classicism across Europe. 

Sebastiano Serlio was an Italian Mannerist architect, painter, and theorist whose influential publications revolutionized architectural education. He was the first author to emphasize large-scale illustrations over dense theoretical text, making complex classical rules accessible to a broad audience of practitioners. Serlio served as a court architect to King Francis I of France, where he significantly influenced French Renaissance style through his work at the Palace of Fontainebleau and his theoretical treatises. His systematic treatment of the five classical orders established a definitive framework for Western architecture that remained a standard reference for centuries.

Artist or Maker: Sebastiano Serlio.

Dimensions: Approximately 30 cm x 20 cm.

Medium: engraving.

Date: 1566.

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.