Grecian Mouldings c. 1888

John Marin’s “Grecian Mouldings, Showing Method of Construction” (c. 1888) is a technical drawing that demonstrates the geometric construction of different types of moldings used in ancient Greek architecture. The artwork features six different molding profiles, including the ovolo, cima recta, and scotia, with each section annotated with its name and detailed with lines and points that illustrate the mathematical principles behind its form. This drawing is an example of Marin's early interest in architectural drawing and his dedication to understanding the underlying structures of the built world.