Baukunst. Goethe’s Notes for a Treatise on Architecture

In Italy, Goethe’s interest in architecture increased. Back, with reference to Winckelmann, he started a small treatise on architecture. Dated 1795, it’s entitled Baukunst. It is a folder of 13 numbered pages, with some blank sheets and barely hinted pencil drawings that show its unfinished nature. Text on each page occupies the middle right of a folio and leaves the left side free to place corresponding drawings. The comparison between both text and drawings can give us a more complete view of Goethe’s architectural theory as counterpoint to his criticism and analytical or descriptive comments of buildings.