Design for the Dome of a Dominican Church
Classification
architecture, interiors
Department
Smithsonian Collection
Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Credit
Museum purchase from the Mary Hearn Greims Fund
Accession Number
1940-21-34
About this artwork
Research in Progress
Art Historical Context
Lorenzo Peracino (1710–1790), an Italian architect of the 18th century created this *Design for the Dome of a Dominican Church* during his active career spanning 1710–90. As a preparatory drawing classified under architecture and interiors, it offers a glimpse into the meticulous planning behind grand ecclesiastical structures. Dominican churches, associated with the Order of Preachers founded by St. Dominic, were often designed to inspire awe and devotion, with domes symbolizing heavenly vaults in Baroque and Rococo traditions prevalent in Italy at the time. Though the medium remains unident...