Design for the Decorations of Pilaster Strips
Medium
architecture
Classification
architecture
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase through gift of various donors and from Eleanor G. Hewitt Fund
Accession Number
1938-88-1470
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Giuseppe Barberi, a Italian architect (1746–1809), this *Design for the Decorations Pilaster Strips* 1789 and 1793, during the height of Neoclassicism in Europe. Pilasters—flat, columnar projections on walls—were essential in classical architecture for adding rhythm and grandeur to facades. Barberi's design exemplifies the era's revival of ancient Roman motifs, blending precise geometry with ornate detailing to elevate architectural surfaces. As an architectural drawing, this work served as a blueprint for stucco or carved embellishments, showcasing Barberi's expertise in ornamental design. H...