A new geometric analysis of the pazzi chapel in santa croce, florence

Abstract

Without original drawings or documented evidence, it is difficult to know with confidence what numbers, measures, and geometric systems have been used in any work of art, architecture, or design. In the Pazzi Chapel, these problems are compounded by the long period of time that transpired in completing the building [construction lasted from 1429 to 1461, and the Chapel was finally finished in 1478 (Fanelli 1980: 3)], and the possibility that there was more than one architect. It is difficult to be sensitive to the artist’s or architect’s intentions when analysing a work, and to remain objective about these findings. If the geometer does not have command of both the measures and the number relationships—ratios, proportioning and geometric constructions—any sensitivity to the intentions of the creator will remain suspect. There is also the difficulty of knowing with certainty if the builders, tradesmen and labourers were able to carry out the designer’s intentions, for many of them had little or no formal education in reading and reckoning. At times, these intentions and goals can be better understood within the context of the artist’s or architect’s other works, what systems of number and geometry were in use or known at the time, and through the analyst’s knowledge of the subject which is sometimes called “harmonic deconstruction”, i.e. geometric analysis. I would like to lay some groundwork regarding my approach to these issues. I find it best to begin, appropriately, with the ground plans of the main hall and the altar space.