This reconstruction has been undertaken a mode that combines technical and visual reconstructions. For a discussion of modes of process see p.65 of 'Paradigms' (opens in new window). Serlio’s text and technical drawings provide sufficient information to complete a model of the stage area an cavea but the scene designs are ambiguous (and inconsistent) in their presentation. The ‘comic scene’ clearly indicates a division between the forestage and picture stage but there real guidance to assist with the ways in which the offstage side of the flats might be resolved. Serlio’s other settings do not even acknowledge a forestage.

The technical drawings then have been used to accurately establish the structure of the space and the stage space has then been interpolated from the information available in the scene designs.

Research Questions:

How might Serlio’s drawings for the scenes be interpreted to present a stage setting?
What is the extent of the impact of spectator point of view on the reception of the perspective ‘illusion’?