Title: Ancient Greek Theatre Architectural Plan by Ambroise Tardieu, 1825
Description:
Original antique architectural engraving showing the plan and arrangement of an ancient Greek theatre, engraved by Ambroise Tardieu for the atlas accompanying Jean-Jacques Barthélemy’s celebrated Voyage du jeune Anacharsis en Grèce.
Titled “Ancien Théâtre Grec,” the plate provides a detailed reconstruction of the characteristic semicircular form of a classical Greek theatre. The sweeping tiers of seating are arranged around the central orchestra, while the stage complex is clearly represented at the lower part of the plan.
Individual elements are identified in French, including the “Orchestre,” “Thymélé” and “Scène.” Numerous radiating stairways divide the seating into sections and illustrate the sophisticated organization of these large public buildings.
Greek theatres played a central role in the cultural and civic life of the ancient world. Performances of tragedy and comedy formed an important part of religious festivals, particularly those dedicated to Dionysus, and theatres could accommodate thousands of spectators.
Measurement scales along the bottom are given in Greek feet, metres and French feet, emphasizing the architectural and archaeological character of the engraving.
The strong geometric composition makes this an especially decorative architectural print, suitable for collectors interested in ancient Greece, classical architecture, theatre and the performing arts.
Creator / Engraver: Ambroise Tardieu
Title: Ancien Théâtre Grec
Publication: Paris
Date: 1825
Technique: Engraving on paper
Plate: Pl. 36
Subject: Ancient Greek theatre architecture
Condition:
Good antique condition with general age toning, scattered foxing and occasional small stains and marks, particularly in the margins. Some discoloration and wear are visible along the sheet edges. The engraved architectural plan remains strong, clear and highly detailed. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.
Original antique engraving. Not a modern reproduction.
Sold unframed. Any framed or interior images shown are for presentation and inspiration only.
Keywords: Ancient Greek Theatre, Greek Theater, Theatre Architecture, Greek Architecture, Classical Architecture, Orchestra, Stage, Ancient Drama, Greek Tragedy, Greek Comedy, Dionysus, Performing Arts, Ancient Greece, Architectural Plan, Ambroise Tardieu, Architectural Engraving, Antique Print, Classical Antiquity, 1825.