An Example of the Ionic Order

The ionic order forms one of the three orders, also referred to as organisational systems of classical architecture. Namely Greek and Roman architecture. The order was developed by the Greeks for their temple architecture. The name ionic is derived from the Ionian Islands where the style of architecture was first employed. (Read more after Break)

Ionic Order Definition

An Oculus or circular window, has been an ever present feature of classical architecture, since the early sixteenth century. Oculus is the latin word for 'eye'. The oculus was a significant source of light in classical buildings.

The most famous example of the use of an oculus in architecture is at the Pantheon in Rome.

The Pantheon Rome. An example of an oculus at the center of a dome.

Oculus in Architecture

The term trompe l'oeil when applied to art refers to the artistic technique whereby the artist uses highly realistic imagery to create an optical illusion. In order to convey objects that are depicted within a painting, or drawing, as three-dimensional. This helps the overall drama and movement of the composition.

An example of the use of the artistic technique of trompe l'oeil.
By the artist Andrea Mantegna, this image is of the oculus on the
ceiling of the central chamber, at the castle San Giorgio in Mantua.

The meaning of 'Trompe l'oeil' in art

An artists Oeuvre can be defined as the works of a painter or sculpture. So in essence an artists Oeuvre is a substantial body of work constituting the life work of an artist.What is the meaning of an artist's Oeuvre

A - Z