Neo-Classicism in 18th Century European Architecture

What period is characterized by a renewed interest in the architecture of antiquity?

The Neo-Classical Period

Which geometric solids were emphasized by French Neo-Classical architects?

Cube, sphere, and pyramid

Who were the two most inventive French Neo-Classical architects?

Etienne-Louis Boullee and Claude-Nicolas Ledoux

What was the design of Boullee's cenotaph for Sir Isaac Newton?

A hollow sphere with a diameter of 500 feet

What notable feature did Boullee's design for a national library include?

An enormous semi-cylinder lit by a skylight cut into a coffered barrel vault

What architectural style did the Petit Trianon in Versailles represent?

Neo-Classicism

Who designed the Petit Trianon?

Ange-Jacques Gabriel

What was the significance of the Ecole Des Beaux-Arts?

It was the first architecture school emphasizing design thought process.

Which English Neo-Classical architect designed Newgate Prison?

George Dance II

What was a notable feature of Newgate Prison's design?

Completely windowless quarters for absolute security

What architectural feature did the Common Council Chamber at Guildhall have?

A pendentive dome over simple piers and arches

What was Rococo primarily known for?

An ornamental style for interiors characterized by organic shapes and color.

What major historical period influenced the developments of the eighteenth century?

The Age of Enlightenment

What technological revolution began in 1750, impacting architecture?

The Industrial Revolution

What counter current emerged in response to Neo-Classicism and the Industrial Revolution?

Romanticism

Who was Colen Campbell and what was his contribution to architecture?

A Scottish architect known for illustrations of classical English buildings.

What was the significance of Mereworth Castle designed by Colen Campbell?

A near-replica of the Villa Rotunda with practical devices.

What is Chiswick House known for?

A smaller version of the Villa Rotunda with obelisks and a dominant twin stair.

What was Robert Adam's major contribution to architecture?

The Adelphi scheme on the River Thames near London.

What unique method did Robert Adam use for representing interior elevations?

A graphic method as if the walls were folded down.

What was the overarching theme of the Petit Trianon?

Dignity and elegance

What was the architectural style of the Pantheon in Paris?

A central plan influenced by Bramante and Michelangelo.

What did the French architects of the Neo-Classical period look back to for inspiration?

Roman, early Christian, and Byzantine buildings.

What was the role of philosophers during the Age of Enlightenment?

To propose rational forms of government.

What did Romanticism offer in contrast to Neo-Classicism?

Visual and emotional relief.

What was the impact of the Industrial Revolution on architecture?

Introduced new materials, technology, and construction systems.

What was the significance of the design thought process emphasized by the Ecole Des Beaux-Arts?

It focused on the conceptual aspects of architecture rather than just style.

What was the architectural significance of the Hotel de Thelluson?

A notable example of Neo-Classical architecture designed by Ledoux.