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  • image Adam vol. 55/125

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