Violet-Le-Duc Architectural Theory Review

Foremost, Violet-Le-Duc’s architectural theory basically highlights two instances on the rationale of gothic structures. Even though the interpretation on gothic structures was centred more on high gothic models, the comprehensive analysis is based on the rationalist approach that is focused on the greatly developed and not as much of the orthodox local traditions of Burgundy that consists of walls that are double-shell. The most memorable ones articulated in the theory include Notre Dame church at Dijon as well as the Auxerre cathedral. Each piece contained in these structures each played a critical role in the masterpiece as a whole and no piece was deemed surplus. In addition, the decorations also bear a practical value.

The theory also spells out the rationality of the Greek architecture which was not only centred on the conformation of structural fundamentals as an abstract statement but in the view that the masterpiece was developed as a structure that comprised of huge stones, located in the sunny environment. It outlines the reasons as to why some of the features formulated under the Doric order do not serve the attributed functions such as the angle contraction in intercolumniations while others for instance the triglyph frieze may only function metaphorically (Gilkerson 237). It provides a contrast to the Vitruvian custom that Doric temple displayed an interpretation that was initially articulated in wood, into a structural system that was made of stone. In addition to why the arched vaults are not utilized by the Greeks.

Lastly, the book discusses the roman architecture in reference to the later imperial period that was second to the fourth century particularly laying emphasis on the vast buildings that had a combination of the daring engineering attributes alongside the intricate spatial schemes specifically the great baths of Caracalla and Diocletian. It also outlines the architectural differences between the Greek and Roman architecture in regards to the structural envelope based on the functionally determined spaces.

Works Cited

Gilkerson, Ann. “The Foundations of Architecture. Selections from the’Dictionnaire raisonné’by Eugene-Emmanuel Viollet-Le-Duc, Kenneth D. Whitehead; The Architectural Theory of Viollet-le-Duc: Readings and Commentary by Eugene-Emmanuel Viollet-Le-Duc, MF Hearn.” (1993): 237-238.

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