Artwork

Dutch Facade Elevation: pl. 5

Dutch Facade Elevation: pl. 5, by Vignola, ink, 1642
Dutch Facade Elevation: pl. 5, by Vignola, ink, 1642

Dutch Facade Elevation: pl. 5 is an ink print by the Baroque artist Vignola. It dates from 1642 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art. Dutch Facade Elevation: pl.

About this work

Overview

Dutch Facade Elevation: pl. 5 is an early‑17th‑century engraving on laid paper, attributed to the architect‑designer Giacomo Barozzi da Vignola and dated to around 1642. The print presents a pair of Dutch‑influenced building fronts, rendered with meticulous line work that emphasizes architectural form and surface ornament.

Subject & Meaning

The composition juxtaposes two urban facades: the left structure rises three stories and is capped by a slender, vertical tower, while the right building is limited to two levels. Both elevations are densely fenestrated and feature elaborate window surrounds, carved motifs, and decorative pediments, reflecting the period’s interest in Dutch civic architecture and its ornamental vocabulary.

Technique & Style

Vignola employs fine cross‑hatching to model light and shadow, creating a convincing sense of depth and material texture. The engraving’s linear precision and realistic rendering align with the architectural treatise tradition, where detailed visual documentation served both instructional and aesthetic purposes.

History & Provenance

Created circa 1642, the print forms part of a series of architectural plates that circulated among European designers and patrons. Though the original collection context is unclear, the work has been preserved in several museum print holdings, attesting to its role as a reference for 17th‑century building design.

Artist & collection

Portrait of Vignola

Artist

Vignola

Vignola (1642–1642) was an artist.

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