Vitruvian Tuscan Order 1845 - 1870

Alfred Henry Forrester made this drawing of the Vitruvian Tuscan Order, sometime between 1804 and 1872. It reflects the revival of classical architectural principles during the Neoclassical period. The image presents a detailed elevation of the Tuscan order, a simplified version of the classical orders developed in ancient Rome, codified by Vitruvius. Forrester's drawing revives this classical tradition in England. Architectural drawings like this one supported the British Empire's social and political status. For instance, public buildings in London took inspiration from the monumental architecture of ancient Rome, reinforcing ideas of power and authority. To fully understand this drawing, one might explore architectural pattern books from this period, consider the curriculum of architectural schools, and delve into the social values attached to classical styles.