Sketch of an altar 

This is Johann Baptist Zimmermann’s sketch of an altar. Zimmermann, born in 1680, was a prominent painter and architect in the Baroque period, a time of great social and religious upheaval. His work often served the Catholic Church, visually reinforcing its power and spiritual authority. Notice the ornate detailing of the altar, a key feature of Baroque art designed to inspire awe and devotion. These details reflect the hierarchical structure of the church and society at the time, where religious institutions held significant sway over people's lives. Consider how this sketch translates the power dynamics of the era into an architectural form. Zimmermann captures the emotional intensity of religious experience, aiming to create a space that elevates the faithful towards the divine. This sketch not only represents an altar but also serves as a historical artifact, revealing the complex interplay between art, religion, and social class in Baroque society. It invites us to reflect on the enduring influence of religious architecture on our cultural landscape.