Vitruvius
Author of De Architectura, foundation of Western architecture
Most quoted
"Therefore, since this art is such a one, and so rich in the number of its studies, I think that men have no right to profess themselves architects unless they have climbed with the greatest diligence from boyhood up the steps of all these studies, and, having been nourished by the knowledge of many arts and sciences, have reached the highest temple of architecture."
— from De Architectura, Book I, Chapter 1, Section 12
"The architect should be a man of good education, a skilful draughtsman, versed in geometry and optics, expert at figures, acquainted with history, informed on the principles of natural and moral philosophy, able to play and understand music, having some knowledge of medicine, knowing the opinions of the jurists, and of astronomy and the rules of the heavens."
— from De Architectura, Book I, Chapter I, Section 3
"The architect must be a man of letters, a skillful draughtsman, versed in geometry and optics, expert at figures, acquainted with history, and diligent in the study of philosophy; he must understand music, have some knowledge of medicine, know the opinions of lawyers, and be acquainted with astronomy and the theory of the heavens."
— from De Architectura, Book I, Chapter 1
All quotes by Vitruvius (367)
For it is not enough to know what ought to be done, unless one also knows how to do it.
The architect should be a man of integrity, and of good reputation.
For without these qualities, he will not be able to gain the confidence of his employers.
The architect should be modest, and not arrogant.
For arrogance is a sign of ignorance, and modesty is a sign of wisdom.
The architect should be diligent, and not idle.
For idleness is the enemy of all good work, and diligence is the mother of success.
The architect should be generous, and not avaricious.
For avarice is a vice that corrupts the mind, and generosity is a virtue that ennobles the soul.
The architect should be a lover of truth, and not a deceiver.
Architecture depends on Order (symmetria), Arrangement (eurythmia), Eurythmy, Symmetry, Propriety and Economy.
The architect should be equipped with knowledge of many branches of study and varied kinds of learning.
Beauty is produced by the pleasing appearance and good proportion of the whole.
Strength (firmitas) is a quality in which the work acquires durability.
Utility (utilitas) is that by which buildings perform their functions well.
In all things, not only in buildings but in all human works, proportion must be observed.
The human body was the model for the proportions of temples.
Symmetry is the harmony of parts with each other and with the whole.
Economy denotes the proper management of materials and site.
Neither natural ability without education nor instruction without natural ability can make the perfect artist.