Temple of Hercules, Cori, plan, elevation; portal, details; Doric order, details (recto) St. Peter's, drum, section (verso) 1500 - 1560

This undated drawing presents an elevation of the Temple of Hercules, along with Doric order details on the front side, and a section of St. Peter’s drum on the back. The composition emphasizes linear precision and architectural form. Notice how the artist meticulously details the temple’s structure, focusing on symmetry and proportion. The use of line to define edges and volumes invites the viewer to analyze classical design principles. The rigid geometry of the temple contrasts with the rounded section of St. Peter's drum, creating a dialogue between classical and baroque architectural styles. The drawing functions as more than a mere representation; it is a semiotic system encoding cultural values and aesthetic ideals. The classical elements embody concepts of order, reason, and civic virtue, while the inclusion of St. Peter’s hints at evolving architectural and philosophical perspectives. This piece invites us to consider how architectural drawings not only depict structures but also reflect shifts in thought and cultural priorities.