Nis 1772 - 1779

Jean-Baptiste Bichard created this drawing, Nis, in the 18th century using pen and ink on paper. Here we see an architectural rendering of a niche, a recess in a wall used for display. The controlled lines and precise shading define the form, giving it a three-dimensional presence on the page. Bichard would have used a series of tools, including rulers, compasses, and specialized pens, demanding a high degree of skill. The drawing likely served as a preparatory study for an actual built structure. During this time, architectural drawings were essential for communication between architects, patrons, and builders. They not only depicted how buildings would appear but also conveyed technical information. Drawings like Nis demonstrate the vital role of craft and skill in architectural design. It reminds us that even the most visionary buildings start with the hand, eye, and knowledge of the maker, bridging the gap between art, architecture, and the built environment.