Tractaat over architectuur 1770 - 1808

Jan Brandes created this drawing, "Tractaat over architectuur," using ink on paper. The sheet presents itself as an exercise in geometric precision and calligraphic elegance. Brandes's work immediately strikes one as a study in contrasts. Sharp, definitive lines form the architectural details. We see a combination of architectural diagrams with fluid handwriting which creates a balanced tension. These elements aren't merely illustrative; they're structural. Each line, each curve, functions within a semiotic system, conveying not just form but also the underlying principles of architectural design. The handwritten notes serve as a legend, and the lines themselves take on a life of their own. Observe the overall composition. The diagrams are placed to create a visual rhythm, guiding the eye through a structured exploration of form and function. This piece isn't just about architecture. It's about how we understand, dissect, and represent the world around us through lines and text.