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Academic study showing a plan of a symmetrical building with an apsidal centre, a five-bay screen and horseshoe ramp, and two spiral staircases. At the end of the hall is another staircase, two halls with apsidal ends, more staircases and columns.
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Reference number
Adam vol. 55/125
Purpose
Academic study showing a plan of a symmetrical building with an apsidal centre, a five-bay screen and horseshoe ramp, and two spiral staircases. At the end of the hall is another staircase, two halls with apsidal ends, more staircases and columns.
Aspect
Plan
Inscribed
Inscribed in ink on drawing 125
Signed and dated
- Undated, probably 1755 - 1756
Medium and dimensions
Pencil, pen148 x 203
Hand
Robert Adam
Watermark
Grapes, trimmed
Notes
This sheet appears to show Robert Adam turning a pencil sketch into a developed ink scheme, possibly incorporating suggestions or corrections by Laurent-Benoít Dewez (1731-1812). The plan is firmly rooted in Renaissance examples such as the Villa Giulia or the Villa Belvedere of the Vatican in Rome, Italy, both of which Adam knew well. A possible elevation to this plan may be seen in Adam vol.55/141 and the drawing may be compared with the more developed ink scheme for a music pavilion in Adam vol.55/173 verso. There are similar plans in volume 9 (see particularly Adam vol.9/154 recto and verso).
Level
Drawing
Digitisation of the Drawings Collection has been made possible through the generosity of the Leon Levy Foundation
If you have any further information about this object, please contact us: drawings@soane.org.uk