Poort met oeil de boeuf 1752 - 1794

This is Ch. G. Coupeaux's "Poort met oeil de boeuf," an ink drawing now housed in the Rijksmuseum. The drawing presents an architectural elevation of a carriage entrance, detailed with precision and symmetry. Linear elegance defines the composition. Note how the design is structured around a central axis, where the bull's-eye window— the "oeil de boeuf"— acts as a focal point. The symmetrical arrangement, flanked by rectangular panels and adorned with decorative motifs, speaks to a formal aesthetic. We are also compelled to appreciate the geometric rigor of the design, where each element contributes to a larger, cohesive structure. The contrast between the curved window and the rectilinear forms creates a visual rhythm, offering a play of opposition and balance. This interplay highlights a tension inherent in architectural design: between functionality and ornamentation, between the constraints of structure and the freedom of expression. The drawing invites us to consider the semiotic interplay of lines, shapes, and forms, engaging in a dialogue about representation, space, and power within architectural discourse.