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Architectural Precision: 18th-Century Staircase Engravings, 1739

About the Item

These engravings are a series of detailed architectural drawings from "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE of Nieuwe Algemeene Bouwkunde" by Tieleman van der Horst, engraved by Jan Schenk in Amsterdam, and published by Petrus Schenk in 1739. This image presents a pair of 18th-century engravings depicting the detailed design and engineering of staircases. Each section is meticulously detailed, highlighting the precision required in the craft of staircase construction during the era. From the elegance of the spiral to the straightforward utility of straight flights, these diagrams offer a glimpse into the complex geometry and thoughtful planning involved in creating functional yet aesthetically pleasing architectural elements. The numbered annotations and measurements provide insight into the methods used by craftsmen to translate these designs from paper to reality. These engravings not only served as practical guides for builders but also stand as a testament to the sophistication of early modern architecture and design, showcasing the blend of artistry and mathematics that is the foundation of architectural excellence. More about the architect, artist and publisher: Tieleman van der Horst, Jan Schenk, and Petrus Schenk were individuals active in the 18th-century Dutch world of printmaking, engraving, and publication, particularly in the realm of scientific and technical knowledge. **Tieleman van der Horst**: While not much is widely known about Tieleman van der Horst, it is evident from the work that he had a strong grasp of architectural principles and mechanical design. As the author of "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE of Nieuwe Algemeene Bouwkunde," he would have been a significant figure in the field of architecture and engineering during his time. His work on this compendium of machinery and architectural design would have contributed to the spread of technical knowledge during a period when such information was becoming increasingly valuable. **Jan Schenk**: Jan Schenk was the engraver for these works, and as such, would have been highly skilled in the art of engraving. Engraving was a meticulous process that required a steady hand and an acute eye for detail. The quality of the engravings suggests that Schenk was a master of his craft, able to translate complex, three-dimensional structures onto a two-dimensional medium with precision and clarity. **Petrus Schenk**: Petrus Schenk was a publisher based in Amsterdam, a city that was a center of printing and publishing in the 18th century. As a publisher, Schenk would have been involved in the business and administrative side of producing and distributing the book. His role would have been to oversee the printing process, manage the financial aspects, and ensure the distribution of the finished product to booksellers and clients. The fact that he published a work of such technical and artistic complexity indicates that he was a significant figure in the world of publishing and had the resources and connections necessary to produce and sell such a specialized text. Overall, the collaboration between these individuals on "THEATRUM MACHINARUM UNIVERSALE of Nieuwe Algemeene Bouwkunde" would have been a considerable undertaking. It brought together expertise from different realms—architectural knowledge, artistic skill in engraving, and the business acumen necessary for successful publication—to create a work that was both educational and visually impressive. This work would have served as an important resource for professionals in architecture and engineering, as well as for patrons and students interested in the latest developments in building technology and design.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 17.52 in (44.5 cm)Width: 22.64 in (57.5 cm)Depth: 0 in (0.02 mm)
  • Sold As:
    Set of 2
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Paper,Engraved
  • Period:
    1730-1739
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1739
  • Condition:
    Good. Folds in the middle as issued. Paper slightly browned. Minor foxing. General age-related toning and/or occasional minor defects from handling. Please study scan carefully.
  • Seller Location:
    Langweer, NL
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: BG-13689-7, BG-13689-81stDibs: LU3054338370532
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