Pantheon
Factual Information:
From: Rome, Italy
Period: 118-125 CE
Period: 118-125 CE
General Information:
This large temple was built to commemorate all of the Roman gods. It was commissioned by Marcus Agrippa, pushing the boundaries of what was possible to build using normal concrete. It has a massive dome, left unsupported by anything on the inside, with large coffers going up and down the inside. The occulus near the top was used for light, as well as to reduce weight on the dome so it wouldn't collapse.
Why This Artwork?
This artwork was chosen due to its massive scale and importance to architecture. It is clear that at this time of Roman History that they were intending on pushing the boundaries of what was possible. A humanist form of ideal that is missing from the middle ages. This gives us a glimpse into their culture and how they accomplished goals.