Elevation for a Palace Façade 1770

Degana made this drawing, Elevation for a Palace Façade, sometime in the late 18th century. It is rendered with pen and brown ink, with grey wash, on paper. Notice how the facade is symmetrically organized; this suggests a classical revival style, which was popular at the time. The architect emphasizes planar surfaces with windows and framed doors recessed into the walls. Bands of horizontal lines run across the façade. They visually unify the surface. The organization of the façade functions as a system of signs. Each element such as windows, frames, and bands, signifies stability and order, key attributes associated with classical architecture. Yet, there are also slight variations in the placement of windows and ornamental details which introduce a subtle tension. Such tension destabilizes any fixed meaning and presents an interpretation of classical design principles. It engages with questions about tradition and innovation, revealing the subjective role of the architect in redefining space and form.