Imitation, novelty and eclecticism in the architecture of Domenichino

Abstract

This thesis is a building by building i.e. drawing by drawing analysis of Domenichino's entire architectural oeuvre. Focusing on the aspect of imitation as a concept in art theory this examination is largely structured along Domenichino’s use of iconic architectural prototypes. Such a systematic approach was necessary to trace and identify possible sources. On this basis I was able to clarify historical and regional influences, and how imitative techniques of sources led to innovation. Thereby I established a system for techniques of imitation used by Domenichino. These involved fusion, monumentalisation, contrapposto, simplification, sculptural richness of architecture, illusionism as well as romanisation of the modern and modernisation of the roman sources among other techniques. As a result a clear picture of his personal stylistic preferences for architectural-sculptural richness emerges which is in some way consistent with his painterly and decorative works but also reveals fundamental differences with regard to regional influences. In light of this, an evaluation of the influences and manifestations of art theoretical concepts of the ideal and beauty could be considered. I contrasted Domenichino’s work with contemporary trends and compared it with the achievements of high baroque architects such as Pietro da Cortona, Bernini, Carlo Rainaldi and Borromini in order to establish his unique place in early seventeenth-century. In some cases I was able to point out connections of individual works to French influences and to the Bolognese Sebastiano Serlio.