The Ten Books of Architecture

Abstract

The entirety of fine works, most illustrious and reverend Sir, the more they are looked at and contemplated by men, the more they reveal their beauty and the skilfulness of the master, though often at first glance one feels none of the appreciation that comes later when they have been carefully examined and considered. I need not exert myself to prove that this is so because the paintings, sculpture, and buildings of great men and other things that we see every day clearly demonstrate it, since the more they are observed, the more the observer is enamoured of them. This is a clear sign that greater beauty can always be discovered in such things. This effect, or one similar to it, is made by the true and precious stones of nature in contrast to the false and vile ones made by men. The false ones at first glance make a most blithe and splendid show of themselves and, like flatterers, delight the eye with a false splendour, but then go on to fade; but the true and fine natural stones, because they are made of nature’s truth, not to deceive anyone but to elevate minds to a higher journey, sooner live up to what they promise.