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Glossary

All'antica

An Italian term meaning 'in the manner of the ancients' used for works of art, architecture and literature that sought to revive the style and principles of the classical past, especially that of Ancient Rome. The origins of this style can be seen as early as the fourteenth century, but it became especially widespread in the fifteenth century. In architecture the style is distinguished by its use of antique ornament, particular the classical orders, and symmetry. It was based upon the study of antique buildings and upon the only surviving Ancient Roman architectural manual, ‘On Architecture’ by Vitruvius. Prominent early examples include the buildings of Filippo Brunelleschi, including the Pazzi Chapel and the Loggia degli Innocenti.