Description
Description of Jean-Francois de Neufforge's Recueil Élémentaire d’Architecture
These detailed engravings are from the work entitled Recueil Élémentaire d’Architecture by Jean-Francois de Neufforge published from 1757-1768. After studying with Jacques-François Blondel and assisting in the creation of Julien-David Le Roy’s book Les Ruines des plus beaux monuments de la Grèce, Neufforge was one of the most important French architects of the 18th century. This work was a monumental undertaking in which many of the hundreds of illustrations were designed and engraved by Neufforge himself. Featured in the work is everything from fountains and gardens to interior designs and stairs. Even the recently architecturally validated prisons and lighthouses were known to be seen in his works. This work is noted for its comprehensive coverage of 18th French architecture, not only for its technical basics, but also for the artistic element present in the designs which include modest homes to grand mansions.