The Ten Books on Architecture, 5.6.7

Vitruvius  translated by Joseph Gwilt

« Vitr. 5.6 | Vitr. 5.6 | Vitr. 5.7 | About This Work »

7It is not, however, possible to produce the same effect in every theatre by the same proportions; but it behoves the architect to consider the proportions which symmetry requires, and those adapted to the nature of the place or the size of the work. Some things there are which their use requires of the same size in a large as in a small theatre; such as the steps, præcinctions, parapets, passages, stairs, pulpita, tribunals, and others which occur; in all which, the necessity of suiting them to their use, makes it impossible to form them symmetrically. So, also, if the materials are not provided in sufficient quantity, such as marble, wood, and the like, the diminution of or addition to the dimensions, so that it be not too much, and made with judgment, may be permitted: and this will be easily managed by an architect who is a man of experience, and who possesses ingenuity and talent.

« Vitr. 5.6 | Vitr. 5.6 | Vitr. 5.7 | About This Work »