Vitruvius: The Ten Books on Architecture

Description

The oldest and most influential book ever written on architecture, this volume describes the classic principles of symmetry, harmony, and proportion and the ancients' methods, materials, and aesthetics. Marcus Vitruvius Pollio, a Roman architect and engineer flourishing in the first century B.C., was the author of the oldest and most influential work on architecture in existence. For hundreds of years, the specific instructions he gave in his "Ten Books on Architecture" were followed faithfully, and major buildings in all parts of the world reveal the widespread influence of his precepts. According to the Encyclopedia Britannica, he was "the chief authority studied by architects, and in every point his precepts were accepted as final. Bramante, Michelangelo, Palladio, Vignola, and earlier were careful students of the work of Vitruvius." His book is thus one of those rare works that have been supremely important in the creation of the greatest art masterpieces. Vitruvius describes the classic principles of symmetry, harmony, and proportion in architecture; the design of the treasury, prison, senate house, baths, forum, and temples; the construction of the theater: its site, foundations, and acoustics; the proper style and proportion for private dwellings; the differences between the Ionic, Doric, and Corinthian styles; methods of giving durability and beauty to polished finishings; and many other topics that help us understand the methods and beliefs of the Roman architect. It is a direct, authoritative, and detailed introduction to the ancients' methods of construction, the materials of the architect, and the prevailing aesthetic beliefs of the times ; but it is also a work of art. Vitruvius wrote in such a fascinating manner and digressed from his subject so often (as, for instance, when he wrote about the winds, Archimedes in his bath, and why authors should receive awards and honors at least as often as athletes) that his book has had a continuing appeal to the general reader for many centuries. Besides being an instructive treatise on nearly everything connected with Roman and Greek architecture, it is an entertaining description of some aspects of the life and beliefs of the times. This edition is the standard English translation, prepared over a period of several years by Professor M. H. Morgan of Harvard University. Foundational Text in Architecture: Vitruvius's Ten Books on Architecture is an essential tome that has shaped the field of architecture since its creation in ancient Rome, influencing Bramante, Michelangelo, Palladio, Vignola, and others, and remains relevant today. Comprehensive Coverage: Vitruvius's work covers a wide range of topics crucial to architecture, including the importance of symmetry, harmony, the use of building materials, and the role of the environment in architectural design. Historical Insight and Wisdom: This seminal work details architectural techniques and embodies the wisdom of Roman construction and engineering, offering readers a window into the technological and aesthetic considerations of the time. Influence on Art and Culture: Vitruvius's ideas have influenced Renaissance art, mainly through Leonardo da Vinci's iconic concept of the Vitruvian Man, symbolizing the blend of art, science, and philosophy. Timeless Principles: The book’s exploration of harmony, proportion, and balance in building designs continues to inform modern architecture, making it a timeless reference for architects, students, and enthusiasts alike. A Must-Read for Architecture Enthusiasts: The Ten Books on Architecture is a fundamental piece for understanding the roots of architectural practice and serves as a source of inspiration and contemplation for anyone intrigued by the intersection of history, art, and architectural design. Review: Vitruvius The ten books of Architcture - This book is a MUST for every interested mind to understanding the basics and logic to why construction and design is, what it is! Today construction throws logic out the door and is based off of money ... short term return. This book along with Palladio's book, Four Books of Architecture, will be the corner stone of a new chapter in construction and design. Designers, Builders and politicians (who should not be in the mix of decision makers) all talk the talk of "Green", proving to be a farce in many ways. Simple concepts explained and set in these two books prove more "Green" than anything brought up today in this world based off of fade and fashion. Just make it simple, get these two books into your reading schedule and learn what was forgotten. The thought process becomes clear once taken the time to just sit down and READ!!! Michael in Charlotte, NC (previously of FL, previously of NV, previously of CA, previously of DC, previously of PA) Review: Classic text written two thousand years ago - An excellent reference source for archaeologists and students of Roman architecture. Also an interesting look at life as seen by an upper middle class Roman of the first century.