Artwork

Campanile of a Cathedral for Berlin

Campanile of a Cathedral for Berlin, by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, ink, 1831
Campanile of a Cathedral for Berlin, by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, ink, 1831

Campanile of a Cathedral for Berlin is an ink drawing by the Romanticist artist Karl Friedrich Schinkel. It dates from 1831 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.

About this work

Overview

This drawing, created in 1831 by Karl Friedrich Schinkel, presents a design for a cathedral bell tower intended for Berlin. It showcases Schinkel's expertise as an architect and his role in shaping the city's architectural landscape.

Technique & Style

Executed in pen and gray ink with gray wash over graphite, heightened with white gouache, the drawing demonstrates Schinkel's technical proficiency. The use of various mediums and techniques adds depth and detail to the proposed design.

Subject & Meaning

The drawing depicts a proposed campanile, or bell tower, for a cathedral in Berlin, reflecting Schinkel's vision for the city's architectural development and his influence on its built environment.

Context

Schinkel was a key figure in 19th-century architectural movements, including Neoclassicism and Gothic Revival. His work, such as the Bauakademie and Altes Museum, contributed significantly to the evolution of modern architectural principles.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Karl Friedrich Schinkel

Artist

Karl Friedrich Schinkel

Karl Friedrich Schinkel (German pronunciation: ; 13 March 1781 – 9 October 1841) was a Prussian architect, city planner and painter who also designed furniture and stage sets.

This work is in the public domain (CC0). Image source: National Gallery of Art open access. Spotted an error in this record? Tell us.