The University of Chicago Library > The Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center > Finding Aids > Guide to Alberti, Leon Battista, De re aedificatoria. Manuscript, circa 1485
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| Title: | Alberti, Leon Battista, De re aedificatoria. Manuscript (Ms 1) |
|---|---|
| Dates: | circa 1485 |
| Manuscript Number: | Codex Ms 1 |
| Size: | 1 volume; 30 x 21 cm. |
| Repository: |
Hanna Holborn Gray Special Collections Research Center |
| Abstract: | Treatise on architecture. Text in Latin. Codex Ms 1. |
The manuscript is open for research.
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Combining scholarly knowledge of ancient sources and models and an innovative architectural technique, Alberti's treatise on architecture was composed in 1452. De re aedificatoria provided the Renaissance with an organized program for architectural design. By using new mathematical techniques and relationships found in musical harmony, Alberti achieved a balanced proportion which was emulated throughout the Renaissance.
The Chicago manuscript, which originated in Sicilian Italy during the last quarter of the fifteenth century, was probably produced by a large scriptorium, since as many as ten scribes collaborated on it. Large blue Roman initials were intended to mark the beginning of each section, but after the Introduction and Book I, the initials have not been painted in.
This work has been rebound and binding fragments retained. See the Special Collections circulation desk for additional information.
| Volume 1 | Codex Ms 1 |